FLUID RECOMMENDATIONS

The manual transaxles use API GL-4 or GL-5 (oil grade) which is SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 (viscosity).



1988-92 2WD-GL-4 or GL-5
 
1988-92 4WD-E50 or GL-5
 
1993-GL-3, GL-4 or GL-5
 
1994-97-GL-4 or GL-5
 

LEVEL CHECK

See Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4

The oil in the manual transaxle should be checked at least every 15,000 miles or 24 months. If vehicle is operated under severe conditions change the manual transaxle oil at this service interval.

  1. With the car parked on a level surface, remove the filler plug from the side of the transaxle housing. The left side engine under cover may need to be removed to check the fluid level.
    2.  



Click image to see an enlarged view

Fig. Fig. 1: Drain plug and filler plug locations

  1. If the lubricant begins to trickle out of the hole, there is enough. Otherwise, carefully insert your finger (watch out for sharp threads) and check to see if the oil is up to the edge of the hole.
    2.  



Click image to see an enlarged view

Fig. Fig. 2: Use your finger to check the oil level of the manual transaxle



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Fig. Fig. 3: The oil level should come within 0.20 in. (5mm) of the bottom edge of the filler hole

  1. If not, add oil through the hole until the level is at the edge of the hole. Most gear lubricants come in a plastic squeeze bottle with a nozzle, making additions simple.
    2.  



Click image to see an enlarged view

Fig. Fig. 4: Fill the transaxlethrough the filler plug NOT the drain plug

  1. Replace the filler plug and engine cover if removed.
    2.  

DRAIN & FILL

See Figures 1 and 4

  1. Raise and safely support the vehicle as necessary. The oil must be hot before it is drained. If the car is driven until the engine is at normal operating temperature, the oil should be hot enough.
    2.  
  2. Remove the left side engine under cover.
    3.  
  3. Remove the filler plug to provide a vent.
    4.  
  4. The drain plug is on the bottom of the transaxle. Place a large container underneath the transaxle and remove the plug.
    5.  
  5. Allow the oil to drain completely. Clean off the plug and replace it. Tighten it until it is just snug.
    6.  
  6. Fill the transaxle with the proper oil till it runs out of the filler hole. This usually comes in a plastic squeeze bottle or use a kitchen baster to squirt the oil in. Refer to the Capacities Chart for the proper amount of oil to add.
    7.  
  7. The oil level should come up to the top of the filler hole.
    8.  
  8. Replace the filler plug. Install the engine cover if it was removed.
    9.  
  9. Drive the car for a few minutes, stop, and check for any leaks.
    10.