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Home >> Mitsubishi >> 2003 >> Lancer Evolution >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different variant/trim >> Section 15 (On-Vehicle Service - Except Evolution) >> On-Vehicle Service >> A/T Fluid Check
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A/T Fluid Check

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.
  1. Drive the vehicle until the A/T fluid temperature rises to the normal temperature [70 - 80°C (158 - 176°F)].
    NOTE: The A/T fluid temperature is measured with scan tool MB991502 (MUT-II).
    NOTE: If it takes some amount of time until the A/T fluid reaches its normal operating temperature [70 - 80°C (158 - 176°F)], check the A/T fluid level by referring to the left diagram.
    Fig 1: Checking A/T Fluid Level
    G01876023Courtesy of MITSUBISHI MOTOR SALES OF AMERICA.
  2. Park the vehicle on a level surface.
  3. Move the selector lever through all positions to fill the torque converter and the hydraulic circuits with fluid, and then move the selector lever to the "N" position.
  4. After wiping off any dirt around the dipstick, remove the dipstick and check the condition of the A/T fluid.
    NOTE: If the A/T fluid smells as if it is burnt, it means that the A/T fluid has been contaminated by fine particles from the bushings and friction materials. A transaxle overhaul and cooler line flushing may be necessary.
  5. Check that the A/T fluid level is at the "HOT" mark on the dipstick. If the A/T fluid level is less than this, add DIAMOND ATF SP III or equivalent A/T fluid until the level reaches the "HOT" mark.
    NOTE: If the A/T fluid level is too low, the oil pump will draw in air along with the A/T fluid, which will cause bubbles to form. If the A/T fluid level is too high, rotating components inside the transaxle will churn the fluid and air into a foamy liquid. Both conditions (level too low or too high) will cause the hydraulic pressure to drop, which will result in late shifting and slipping of the clutches and brakes.
    NOTE: In either case, air bubbles can interfere with normal valve, clutch, and brake operation. Also, foaming can cause A/T fluid to escape from the transaxle vent where it may be mistaken for a leak.
    Fig 2: Checking A/T Fluid Level Is At "Hot" Mark On Dipstick
    G01876024Courtesy of MITSUBISHI MOTOR SALES OF AMERICA.
  6. Securely insert the dipstick.
    NOTE: The A/T fluid should always be replaced under the following conditions:
    • When trouble shooting the transaxle.
    • When overhauling the transaxle.
    • When the A/T fluid is noticeably dirty or burnt (driving under severe conditions).
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