Automatic transaxle fluid
Checking the automatic transaxle
fluid level
The automatic transaxle fluid level
should be checked regularly.
Keep the vehicle on the level ground with the parking brake applied and check the fluid level according to the following procedure.
1. Place the shift lever in N (Neutral) position and confirm the engine is running at normal idle speed.
2. After the transaxle is warmed up sufficiently [fluid temperature 70~80°C (158~176°F)], for example by 10 minutes usual driving, move the shift lever through all positions then place the shift lever in N (Neutral) or P (Park) position.
3.Confirm if the fluid level is in the "HOT" range on the level gauge. If the fluid level is lower, add the specified fluid from the fill hole. If the fluid level is higher, drain the fluid from the drain hole.
4. If the fluid level is checked in cold condition [fluid temperature 20~30 °C (68~86 °F)], add the fluid to the “C” (COLD) line and then recheck the fluid level according to the above step 2.
NOTICE
“C” (COLD) range is for reference only
and should NOT be used to determine
transaxle fluid level.
WARNING - Transaxle fluid The transaxle fluid level should be checked when the engine is at normal operating temperature. This means that the engine, radiator, radiator hose and exhaust system etc., are very hot. Exercise great care not to burn yourself during this procedure.
CAUTION
• Low fluid level causes transaxle
slippage. Overfilling can cause
foaming, loss of fluid and transaxle
malfunction.
• The use of a non-specified fluid could result in transaxle malfunction and failure.
WARNING - Parking brake To avoid sudden movement of the vehicle, apply parking brake and depress the brake pedal before moving the shift lever.
NOTICE
New automatic transaxle fluid should be
red. The red dye is added so the assembly
plant can identify it as automatic
transaxle fluid and distinguish it from
engine oil or antifreeze. The red dye,
which is not an indicator of fluid quality,
is not permanent. As the vehicle is
driven, the automatic transaxle fluid
will begin to look darker. The color may
eventually appear light brown.
Therefore, have an authorized KIA dealer change the automatic transaxle fluid according to the Scheduled Maintenance at the beginning of this section.
Use only the specified automatic
transaxle fluid. (Refer to "Recommended
lubricants or capacities" in section 8.)
Changing the automatic transaxle
fluid
Have the automatic transaxle fluid
changed by an authorized KIA dealer
according to the Maintenance Schedule
at the beginning of this section.
See also:
Special driving conditions
Hazardous driving conditions
When hazardous driving conditions
are encountered such as water,
snow, ice, mud, sand, or similar hazards,
follow these suggestions:
• Drive cautiously and allow ex ...
Brake system
Power brakes
Your vehicle has power-assisted brakes
that adjust automatically through normal
usage.
In the event that the power-assisted
brakes lose power because of a stalled
engine or some oth ...
Towing
Towing service
If emergency towing is necessary, we
recommend having it done by an authorized
KIA dealer or a commercial towtruck
service. Proper lifting and towing
procedures are necessary to ...