NOTE: Keep all foreign particles out of the transmission

Park the vehicle on the level ground.
Warm up the engine to normal operating temperature (the radiator fan comes on), and turn the engine off Do not allow the engine to warm up longer than the time it takes for the radiator fan to come on twice
NOTE: Check the fluid level within 60-90 seconds after turning the engine off Higher fluid level may be indicated if the radiator fan comes on twice or more
Remove the dipstick (yellow loop) (A) from the dipstick guide tube, and wipe it with a clean cloth

Fig 1: Identifying Dipstick (Yellow Loop)
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Insert the dipstick into the guide tube
Remove the dipstick and check the fluid level It should be between the upper mark (A) and the lower mark (B).

Fig 2: Identifying Upper And Lower Mark On Dipstick
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
If the level is below the lower mark, check for fluid leaks at the transmission, and the hose and the line joints If a problem is found, fix it before filling the transmission
NOTE: If the vehicle is driven when the ATF level is below the lower mark, one or more of these symptoms may occur
- Transmission damage
- Vehicle does not move in any gear
- Vehicle accelerates poorly, and flares when starting off in D and R
- The engine vibrates at idle
If the level is above the upper mark, drain the ATF to the proper level (see ATF Replacement, see step 3)
NOTE: If the vehicle is driven when the ATF level is above the upper mark, the vehicle may creep forward while in N, or have shifting problems
If necessary, fill the transmission with the ATF through the dipstick guide tube opening (A) to bring the fluid level between the upper mark and the lower mark of the dipstick Do not fill past the upper mark Always use Acura ATF-Z1 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) Using a non-Acura ATF can affect shift quality

Fig 3: Identifying Dipstick Guide Tube
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Insert the dipstick back into the dipstick guide tube

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

• You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.

• Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.

• The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.

• You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.

• You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

Safety Warning

ATF Level Check

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

When to See a Mechanic

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