Honda Accord: Transmission Fluid
Honda Accord: Transmission Fluid
Automatic Transmission
Check the fluid level with the engine at normal operating temperature.
1. Park the vehicle on level ground.
Start the engine, let it run until the radiator fan comes on, then shut off the engine. For accurate results, wait about 60 seconds (but no longer than 90 seconds) before doing step 2.
2. Remove the dipstick (yellow loop) from the transmission, and wipe it with a clean cloth.
3. Insert the dipstick all the way into the transmission securely as shown in the illustration.
4. Remove the dipstick and check the fluid level. It should be between the upper and lower marks.
5. If the level is below the lower mark, add fluid into the dipstick hole to bring it to the level between the upper and lower marks.
Pour the fluid slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spill immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.
Always use Honda ATF DW-1 (automatic transmission fluid).
6. Insert the dipstick all the way back into the transmission securely as shown in the illustration.
The transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid according to the Maintenance Minder TM.
If you are not sure how to add fluid, contact your dealer.
Use only Honda ATF DW-1 (automatic transmission f luid). Do not mix with other transmission f luids.
Using transmission f luid other than Honda ATF DW-1 may cause deterioration in transmission operation and durability, and could result in damage to the transmission.
Damage resulting from the use of transmission f luid other than Honda ATF DW-1 is not covered by the Honda new vehicle warranty.
Manual Transmission
4-cylinder models
Check the fluid level with the transmission at normal operating temperature and the vehicle sitting on level ground.
To check the transmission fluid level, remove the under cover holding clips with a flat-tip screwdriver, then remove the under cover carefully.
Remove the transmission filler bolt, and carefully feel inside the bolt hole with your finger.
The fluid level should be up to the edge of the bolt hole. If it is not, add Honda Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) until it starts to run out of the hole. Reinstall the filler bolt, and tighten it securely.
Reinstall the under cover and put the holding clips back in place. Make sure the under cover is installed under the edge of the front bumper.
If Honda MTF is not available, you may use an SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 viscosity motor oil with the API Certification Seal that says ‘‘FOR GASOLINE ENGINES’’ as a temporary replacement. However, motor oil does not contain the proper additives, and continued use can cause stiffer shifting. Replace as soon as it is convenient.
The transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid according to the Maintenance Minder TM.
If you are not sure how to check and add fluid, contact your dealer.
V6 models
Check the fluid level with the transmission at normal operating temperature and the vehicle sitting on level ground.
Remove the check bolt and look for transmission fluid coming out of the bolt hole. If a small amount of fluid drips out of the bolt hole, reinstall the check bolt.
If no fluid comes out, remove the filler bolt and washer. Slowly add Honda Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) until it starts to run out of the check bolt hole.
Pour the fluid into the filler hole slowly and carefully so you do not spill any. Clean up any spills immediately; it could damage components in the engine compartment.
Let the fluid run out until it stops, then reinstall the check bolt and the filler bolt.
Make sure to put a new washer on each bolt when reinstalling it.
Reinstall the under cover and put the holding clips back in place. Make sure the under cover is installed under the edge of the front bumper.
If Honda MTF is not available, you may use an SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 viscosity motor oil with the API Certification Seal that says ‘‘FOR GASOLINE ENGINES’’ as a temporary replacement. However, motor oil does not contain the proper additives, and continued use can cause stiffer shifting. Replace as soon as it is convenient.
The transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid according to the Maintenance Minder TM.
If you are not sure how to check and add fluid, contact your dealer.