LEMON Manuals: Even more car manuals for everyone: 1960-2025
Home >> Honda >> 2003 >> CR-V EX, Automatic >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Transmission >> Automatic Trans >> Automatic Transmission Servicing >> ATF Level Check
April 5, 2026: LEMON Manuals is launched! Read the announcement.

ATF Level Check

NOTE: Keep all foreign particles out of the transmission.
  1. Warm up the engine to normal operation temperature (the radiator fan comes on).
  2. Park the vehicle on level ground, and turn the engine off.
    NOTE: Check the fluid level within 60-90 seconds after turning the engine off.
  3. Remove the dipstick (yellow loop) (A) from the transmission, and wipe it with a clean cloth.
    Fig 1: Identifying Dipstick Location
    G01461799Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  4. Insert the dipstick back into the transmission.
  5. Remove the dipstick (A), and check the fluid level. If should be at the upper mark (B).
    Fig 2: Checking Fluid Level
    G01461800Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  6. If the level is below the upper mark, check for fluid leaks at the transmission, hose and line joints, and cooler lines.

    If a problem is found, fix it before filling the transmission.

  7. If the level is above the upper mark, drain the ATF to proper level (see ATF Replacement   .
  8. Pour the recommended fluid amount into the dipstick hole to bring it to the upper mark. Always use Honda ATF-Z1 Automatic Transmission fluid (ATF). Using a non-Honda ATF can affect shift quality.
  9. Insert the dipstick (A) back into the transmission with the handle pointing toward the breather tube (B).
    Fig 3: Identifying Correct Dipstick Installation
    G01461801Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.