ATF Replacement

2008 Honda Civic Si, 4D SedanSECTION ATF Replacement
WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.
NOTE: Keep all foreign particles out of the transmission.
  1. Park the vehicle on the level ground.
  2. Start the engine, and warm it up to normal operating temperature (the radiator fan comes on), and turn the engine off.
  3. Remove the drain plug (A), and drain the automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
    Fig 1: Drain Plug And Automatic Transmission Fluid With Torque Specifications
    G06273902Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  4. Reinstall the drain plug with a new sealing washer (B).
  5. Refill the transmission with the recommended fluid into the dipstick hole to bring the fluid level between the upper mark and the lower mark of the dipstick. Always use Honda ATF-Z1 automatic transmission fluid (ATF). Using a non-Honda ATF can affect shift quality.

    Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity: 

    2.4 L (2.5 US qt) at change 

    5.9 L (6.2 US qt) at overhaul 

  6. Check that the ATF level is between the upper mark and the lower mark of the dipstick.
  7. Insert the dipstick back into the transmission.
  8. '06 4-door model and '07-10 2 and 4-door models: If the maintenance minder recommends replacing the ATF, reset the maintenance minder (see RESETTING INDIVIDUAL MAINTENANCE ITEMS ), and this procedure is complete. If the maintenance minder did not recommend replacing the ATF, go to step 9.

    '06 2-door model: If the maintenance minder recommends replacing the ATF, reset the maintenance minder (see RESETTING INDIVIDUAL MAINTENANCE ITEMS ), and this procedure is complete. If the maintenance minder did not recommend replacing the ATF, notify the customer that the maintenance minder service interval has not been reached and the maintenance minder will still be on the same interval as before.

  9. Connect the HDS to the DLC (A) located under the driver's side of the dashboard.
    Fig 2: Connecting HDS To DLC Driver'S Side Of Dashboard With Torque Specifications
    G06273903Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  10. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II). Make sure the HDS communicates with the PCM. If it does not, go to the DLC circuit troubleshooting (see DLC CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING ).
  11. Select BODY ELECTRICAL with the HDS.
  12. Select ADJUSTMENT in the GAUGES MENU with the HDS.
  13. Select RESET in the MAINTENANCE MINDER MENU with the HDS.
  14. Select RESETTING THE ATF with the HDS.
    NOTE: If you changed the engine oil at the same time with the ATF, select RESETTING THE ENGINE OIL LIFE AND ATF with the HDS instead.
RENDER: 1.0x

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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.