Jimi Hondrix

1998 Civic EX coupe. AT. 145K miles

I did a 3x3 ATF drain and fill on my daughter's car a couple weeks ago and checked it while the car was level, at operating temperature, and idling. The fluid level was between the lines and car transmission shifting well. I recently found out I should have checked it while the car is:

1) level
2) at operating temp
3) engine off

Is there much difference (in fluid reading level) checking it at idle as opposed to engine off (when 1 and 2 are achieved) ?

Also, the ATF dipstick looks to be leaking.. will the upgraded one for the 7th work for 6th gens?

tony_2018

The readings should not be "IN BETWEEN", it needs to reach that second mark.

Check on level ground and when the car is completely warmed up. Check attached.

edit: I guess in between is stated in the manual, but I tend to fill it to upper mark.

Jimi Hondrix

Thanks.. that's good info too. I'll ask her to check it or bring by a place that will.

tony_2018

I edit my post,

Jimi Hondrix

Got it.. I linked her the same diagram/instruction to her e-mail.

My assumption is there's probably not much difference between checking at idle and checking while engine off, while level and operating temp. However, better to be safe and do it like Honda-san tells us to.

Jimi Hondrix

For future reference there seems to be no difference in fluid level check while engine is off or idling at operating temp.