The correct ATF level is critical to the correct operation of the automatic transmission. Both too low and too high an ATF level has a negative effect on the operation of the gearbox.
Required special tool:
- Oiler or filling syringe.
- Protective glasses.
- ATF collection container
- Suitable instrument for measuring oil temperature.
Required Consumables/Replacement Parts:
- Oil for automatic transmissions VW/SEAT specifications G 052 990 A2.
- Sealing ring for cork.
- Protective cap for plug.
General notes on automatic transmission and ATF
Do not start the engine if the gearbox is empty of ATF. Do not tow the vehicle with an empty ATF gearbox. When carrying out all work, ensure exceptional cleanliness, as even slight contamination causes gearbox malfunctions.
Checking the oil level
Attention: To start the check, the oil in the gearbox must be below +30°C. This temperature is reached after a short period of engine operation. At the service station, a diagnostic tool is connected to the vehicle's diagnostic connector to monitor the temperature. Without a diagnostic tool, the temperature can only be estimated.
Safety note
Protect eyes, ATF leaks out. Put on safety goggles.
The temperature of the ATF during the test must not exceed +30°C. In addition, the emergency mode function must not be activated.
Put the lever for selecting the operating modes of the automatic transmission in position P, turn off the air conditioning and heating systems.
Place an ATF collection container down. Unscrew plug -arrow-. The quantity of ATF present in the overflow pipe drains.
Cut the sealing ring on the cork with side cutters and replace.
Make sure that the overflow tube is screwed in as far as it will go.
Start the engine and let it run until the ATF temperature reaches +35°C to +45°C.
If, at an ATF temperature of +35°C to +45°C, as a result of the rise in the oil level due to heating, it starts to drip from the overflow pipe, then the ATF level is in order. In this case, turn off the engine, screw in the plug with a new seal and tighten to 15 Nm.
If at an ATF temperature of +35°C to +45°C oil does not drip from the overflow pipe:
Use a screwdriver to pry off the protective cap -arrow-. The cap is destroyed and must be replaced. The cap protects the installation site of the plug.
Note: depending on the version of the gearbox, the cap may have a fastening with a collar. This cap can be installed again.
Remove the plug from the fill tube.
Insert the grease fitting and pour in ATF until oil comes out through the inspection hole (overflow tube) -arrow-. Beforehand, the oiler must be raised higher, for example, hung on the hood of the engine compartment. In addition, you can replenish the ATF level using a filling syringe.
Screw in the plug -arrow 1- with a new O-ring and tighten to 15 Nm.
Push the plug onto the filler pipe until the plug is secured by the clamp, or insert the plug accordingly and close it with a new protective cap -arrow 2-.
Note: For versions with a protective cap, always replace it with a new one, as it protects the plug.
If necessary, switch off the ignition and remove the temperature measuring device.
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