Checking/replacing the oil level in an automatic transmission

The transmission oil level in an automatic transmission depends on the temperature of the transmission oil. Since diagnostic equipment is required for accurate temperature measurement, it is recommended that this work be carried out at a Volkswagen service station. Normally, the oil level in an automatic transmission stays constant unless there are visual leaks. In this case, there is no need to check the oil level.

Warning: Do not start the engine or tow the vehicle without oil in the automatic transmission.

Checking the oil level

When checking the level, the temperature of the transmission oil should not exceed +30°C. This temperature is reached shortly after starting the engine. To determine the temperature, it is necessary to connect Volkswagen diagnostic equipment to the connector. Otherwise, the temperature can only be determined approximately.

1. Place the vehicle on a lift in a horizontal position.

2. Set the automatic transmission selector lever to position "P" and apply the handbrake. Turn off the air conditioner and heating system.



3. Place an appropriate container under the screw plug (arrow) gearboxes. From the bypass (drain) pipes should drip oil.


4. Replace the sealing ring on the screw plug.

5. Start the engine while testing at idle speed.

6. At an automatic transmission temperature of +35°C to +45°C, the oil level is normal if there is a slight leakage of oil (conditionally due to the rise in the oil level when heated). Otherwise, add oil to the gearbox. Screw the plug back in place until the temperature reaches +45°C and tighten it with a torque of 15 Nm.

Topping up oil

Using the VAG 1924 tank suspended on the hood for adding oil to the automatic transmission and the VAG 1551 diagnostic tool for checking the oil temperature

Removing the protective cap

Adding oil to an automatic transmission using the VAG 1924 tool

1. Place the vehicle on a lift in a horizontal position.


2. Install an appropriate container under the automatic transmission oil pan.

3. Use a screwdriver to remove the safety cap located on the oil filler pipe. This will destroy it (see fig. Removing the protective cap). Unscrew the plug.

4. Unscrew the oil level check plug.

5. Using the VAG 1924 tool, add oil to the gearbox through the oil filler pipe until it comes out of the oil level hole (arrow, see fig. Adding oil to an automatic transmission using the VAG 1924 tool).

6. Set the selector lever to position "P", start the engine and let it idle.

7. With the engine idling, apply the brake and move the selector lever to all positions ("P", "N", "R", "3", "2", "1") with a delay in each position for 2-3 seconds.

8. Check the oil level in the gearbox and, if necessary, correct it.



9. At the required oil level, screw in the screw plug (1) and replace the new safety cap (2).

Checking the condition of the oil

When checking the oil level in an automatic transmission, also check the condition of the oil. To make it easier to check the condition of the oil, compare the color, smell and viscosity of the oil with new oil.


If the gearbox oil is dark or almost black with a burnt smell, the gearbox friction linings are worn out.

If the oil in the gearbox is milky, it means that water has got into it. This can happen when the car is constantly used for short trips. If the color of the oil does not change after a long drive, the oil needs to be changed.

If the oil is dark brown and sticky, it may be because the transmission is overheated or the oil level in the transmission is too high. If the oil change does not work, the car must be presented to a Volkswagen specialist workshop.

If, when checking the oil level or changing the oil in an automatic transmission, dirt particles or metal chips are present in the oil, it is necessary to diagnose or repair the automatic transmission at a specialized Volkswagen service station.