Brake Fluid, FWD ATF, RWD ATF
BRAKE SYSTEM FLUIDMany vehicles are currently equipped with see-through master cylinder fluid reservoirs, allowing a visual inspection of the brake fluid. The fluid level should be within 3 mm (1/8") of the full indicator on the side of the reservoir. If within specification, do not add additional fluid. If the brake fluid level is below this range, add sufficient fluid to raise the level equal to the full indicator.
NOTICE: On vehicles equipped with an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), the ABS unit hydraulic accumulator must be completely depressurized to properly check the brake fluid level. Procedures for depressurizing the ABS hydraulic accumulator are included in Section 5E of the Chassis Service Manual. Failure to fully depressurize the ABS system per service manual procedure could result in overfilling the brake fluid reservoir.
On vehicles that do not allow a visual inspection, thoroughly clean the reservoir cap or cover to avoid brake fluid contamination. Remove the reservoir cap or cover (compress the rubber boots on reservoir cover diaphragm).
- On vehicles equipped with compact master cylinders (6000, Sunbird, Grand Am, Grand Prix vehicles), brake fluid should be between the minimum and maximum indicator levels in the opening on top of the reservoir (see service manual for additional information).
- On vehicles equipped with diagonal split master cylinder, the brake fluid should be within 6 mm (1/4") from the 8 top of the reservoir.
If the fluid level is within specification, do not add additional fluid. If the fluid level is below the specified level, add sufficient fluid to bring the fluid level within specification.
BRAKE FLUID REQUIREMENTS
GM P/N 1052535, Delco Supreme No. 11, or DOT-3 Fluid.
AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE FLUID - FRONT WHEEL DRIVE
FIGURE 1:
Transaxle Fluid Level Information
When adding or changing fluid, use only DEXRON (R) II. Refer to Section OB of the Service Manual for maintenance information and servicing intervals.
^ Fluid level should be checked when it reaches normal operating temperatures of 190-200 F (88-93 C). This temperature is reached after approximately 15 miles (24 km) of highway driving.
^ Fluid color will be red when new.
Important: When new, automatic transmission fluid is red in color. The red dye is to distinguish it from engine oil or antifreeze. The red dye is not an indicator of fluid quality and is not permanent. As the vehicle is driven the transmission fluid will begin to look darker in color. The color may eventually appear light brown.
NOTICE: Do not overfill. Overfilling will cause foaming, loss of fluid and possible damage to the transaxle.
^ Inaccurate fluid level readings will result if checked immediately after the vehicle has been operated:
- In high ambient temperatures above 90 F (32 C)
- At sustained high speeds
- In heavy city traffic during hot weather
- As a towing vehicle
- In commercial service (taxi or police use)
Transaxle Fluid Checking Procedure
1. Start engine and operate vehicle for a minimum of 15 miles (24 km).
2. Park vehicle on level ground.
3. Move gear selector to "Park" (P).
4. Apply parking brake and block wheels.
5. Let vehicle idle for 3 minutes with accessories turned off.
6. Check fluid level, color and condition.
FIGURE 2:
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID - REAR WHEEL DRIVE
Transmission Fluid Information
When adding or changing fluid, use only DEXRON (R) II. Refer to MAINTENANCE AND LUBRICATION (SEC. OB) for maintenance information and servicing intervals.
NOTICE: Do not overfill. Overfilling will cause foaming, loss of fluid and possible damage to the transmission.
^ Fluid level should be checked when it reaches normal operating temperatures of 88-93# C (190-200# F). This temperature is reached after approximately 15 miles (24 km) of highway driving.
^ Fluid color will be red when new.
Important: When new, automatic transmission fluid is red in color. The dye is to distinguish it from engine oil or antifreeze. The red dye is not an indicator of fluid quality and is not permanent. As the vehicle is driven, the transmission fluid will begin to look darker in color. The color may eventually appear light brown.
^ Inaccurate fluid level readings will result if the fluid is checked immediately after the vehicle has been operated:
- In high ambient temperatures above 32 C (90 F)
- At sustained high speeds
- In heavy city traffic during hot weather
- As a towing vehicle.
- In commercial service (taxi or police use).
Transmission Fluid Checking Procedure
1. Start engine and operate vehicle for a minimum of 15 miles (24 km).
2. Park vehicle on level ground.
3. Move gear selector to "PARK".
4. Apply parking brake and block wheels.
5. Let vehicle idle for 3 minutes with accessories off.
6. Check fluid level, color and condition.