check transmission fluid OPEL FRONTERA 1998 Service Manual

6E–17 ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
PCM Pinouts
PCM Pinout Table, 32-Way Red Connector – Row “A”
TS23344
PINPIN FunctionWire ColorIGN ONENG RUNRefer To
A15 Volt Reference “A”RED5.0 V5.0 VAppropriate Sensor
A2Knock SensorYEL0.0 V DC
2mV AC0.0 V DC
18mV AC
(at idle)General Description and
Operation, Knock Sensor
A3Not Used————
A4Battery FeedWHTB+B+Chassis Electrical
A5Idle Air Control (IAC) “A”
HighBLUB+/0.8 VB+/0.8 VGeneral Description and
Operation, IAC
A6IAC “A” LowBLU/WHTB+/0.8 VB+/0.8 VGeneral Description and
Operation, IAC
A7IAC “B” LowBLU/BLKB+/0.8 VB+/0.8 VGeneral Description and
Operation, IAC
A8IAC “B” HighBLU/REDB+/0.8 VB+/0.8 VGeneral Description and
Operation, IAC
A9Automatic Transmission
Fluid (ATF) LampORN/BLUB+B+Automatic Transmission
(4L30E)
A10Winter LampPNK/GRNB+B+Automatic Transmission
(4L30E)
A11Power LampGRY/WHTB+B+Automatic Transmission
(4L30E)
A12Antilock Brake System
(ABS)GRYB+B+Antilock Brake System
A13Malfunction Indicator
(Check Engine or MIL)
LampBLU0.0 VB+Chassis Electrical
A14“Check Transmission”
Lamp Driver (AT)ORN/BLKB+B+Chassis Electrical
Up Shift Lamp Driver (MT)ORN/BLU

6E–65 ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
Knock Sensor Diagnosis
The Tech 2 has two data displays available for diagnosing
the knock sensor (KS) system. The two displays are
described as follows:
“Knock Retard” indicates the number of degrees that
the spark timing is being retarded due to a knock
condition.
“KS Noise Channel” indicates the current voltage level
being monitored on the noise channel.
DTCs P0325 and P0327 are designed to diagnose the KS
module, the knock sensor, and the related wiring. The
problems encountered with the KS system should set a
DTC. However, if no DTC was set but the KS system is
suspect because of a detonation complaint, refer to
Detonation/Spark Knock in Symptoms.
Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Diagnosis
To read and clear diagnostic trouble codes, use a Tech 2.
IMPORTANT:Use of a Tech 2 is recommended to clear
diagnostic trouble codes from the PCM memory.
Diagnostic trouble codes can also be cleared by turning
the ignition “OFF” and disconnecting the battery power
from the PCM for 30 seconds. Turning off the ignition and
disconnecting the battery power from the PCM will cause
all diagnostic information in the PCM memory to be
cleared. Therefore, all the diagnostic tests will have to be
re-run.
Since the PCM can have a failure which may affect only
one circuit, following the diagnostic procedures in this
section will determine which circuit has a problem and
where it is.
If a diagnostic chart indicates that the PCM connections
or the PCM is the cause of a problem, and the PCM is
replaced, but this does not correct the problem, one of the
following may be the reason:
There is a problem with the PCM terminal connections.
The terminals may have to be removed from the
connector in order to check them properly.
The problem is intermittent. This means that the
problem is not present at the time the system is being
checked. In this case, refer to the
Symptoms p o r t i o n o f
the manual and make a careful physical inspection of
all component and wiring associated with the affected
system.
There is a shorted solenoid, relay coil, or harness.
S o l e n o i d s a n d r e l a y s a r e t u r n e d “ O N ” a n d “ O F F ” b y t h e
PCM using internal electronic switches called drivers.
A shorted solenoid, relay coil, or harness will not
damage the PCM but will cause the solenoid or relay to
be inoperative.
Multiple PCM Information Sensor
DTCS Set
Circuit Description
The powertrain control module (PCM) monitors various
sensors to determine the engine operating conditions.
The PCM controls fuel delivery, spark advance,
transmission operation, and emission control device
operation based on the sensor inputs.The PCM provides a sensor ground to all of the sensors.
The PCM applies 5 volts through a pull-up resistor, and
determines the status of the following sensors by
monitoring the voltage present between the 5-volt supply
and the resistor:
The engine coolant temperature (ETC) sensor
The intake air temperature (IAT) sensor
The transmission fluid temperature (TFT) sensor
The PCM provides the following sensors with a 5-volt
reference and a sensor ground signal:
The exhaust gas recirculating (EGR) pintle position
sensor
The throttle position (TP) sensor
The manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor
The PCM monitors the separate feedback signals from
these sensors in order to determine their operating
status.
Diagnostic Aids
IMPORTANT:Be sure to inspect PCM and engine
grounds for being secure and clean.
A short to voltage in one of the sensor input circuits may
cause one or more of the following DTCs to be set:
P0108
P0113
P0118
P0123
P0560
P0712
P0406
IMPORTANT:If a sensor input circuit has been shorted
to voltage, ensure that the sensor is not damaged. A
damaged sensor will continue to indicate a high or low
voltage after the affected circuit has been repaired. If the
sensor has been damaged, replace it.
An open in the sensor ground circuit between the PCM
and the splice will cause one or more of the following
DTCs to be set:
P0108
P0113
P0118
P0123
P0712
P0406
A short to ground in the 5-volt reference A or B circuit will
cause one or more of the following DTCs to be set:
P0107
P0122
In the 5-volt reference circuit A, between the PCM and the
splice, will cause one or more of the following DTCs to be
set:
P0122
In the 5-volt reference circuit B, between the PCM and the
splice, will cause one or more of the following DTCs to be
set:
P0107
Check for the following conditions:

6E–112
ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0107 MAP Sensor Circuit Low Voltage
D06RW102
Circuit Description
The manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor responds
to changes in intake manifold pressure (vacuum). The
MAP sensor signal voltage to the powertrain control
module (PCM) varies from below 2 volts at idle (high
vacuum) to above 4 volts with the ignition “ON,” engine
not running or at wide-open throttle (low vacuum).
The MAP sensor is used to determine manifold pressure
changes while the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) flow
test diagnostic is being run (refer to
DTC P0401), to
determine engine vacuum level for some other
diagnostics and to determine barometric pressure
(BARO). The PCM monitors the MAP signals for voltages
outside the normal range of the MAP sensor. If the PCM
detects a MAP signal voltage that is excessively low, DTC
P0107 will be set.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
No TP sensor DTCs present.
Engine is running.
Throttle angle is above 1% if engine speed is less than
1000 RPM.
Throttle angle is above 2% if engine speed is above
1000 RPM.
The MAP sensor indicates manifold absolute pressure
at or below 11 kPa for a total of approximately 10
seconds over a 16-second period.
Ignition voltage more than 11 volts.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
The PCM will illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp
(MIL) the first time the fault is detected.
The PCM will default to a BARO value of 79.3 kPa.
The PCM will store conditions which were present
when the DTC was set as Freeze Frame and in the
Failure Records data.
Conditions for Clearing the MIL/DTC
DTC P0107 can be cleared by using the Tech 2 “Clear
Info” function or by disconnecting the PCM battery
feed.
Diagnostic Aids
Check for the following conditions:
Check for intermittent codes.
The MAP sensor shares a 5 Volt reference with the
Rough Road Sensor. If these codes are also set, it
could indicate a problem with the 5 Volt reference
circuit .
The MAP sensor shares a ground with the Rough Road
Sensor, the ECT sensor, and the Transmission Fluid
Temperature sensor.
Poor connection at PCM – Inspect harness connectors
for backed-out terminals, improper mating, broken
locks, improperly formed or damaged terminals, and
poor terminal-to-wire connection.
Damaged harness – Inspect the wiring harness for
damage. If the harness appears to be OK, observe the
MAP display on the Tech 2 while moving connectors

6E–127 ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0118 ECT Sensor Circuit High Voltage
060RY00304
Circuit Description
The engine coolant temperature (ETC) sensor is a
thermistor mounted in on a coolant crossover pipe at the
rear of the engine. The powertrain control module (PCM)
applies a voltage (about 5 volts) through a pull-up resistor
to the ECT signal circuit. When the engine coolant is cold,
the sensor (thermistor) resistance is high, therefore the
PCM will measure a high signal voltage. As the engine
coolant warms, the sensor resistance becomes less, and
the ECT signal voltage measured at the PCM drops. With
a fully warmed-up engine, the ECT signal voltage should
measure about 1.5 to 2.0 volts.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
Engine running time is longer than 1.5 minutes.
The ECT sensor signal indicates an engine coolant
temperature of –39C (–38F) or less (about 5 volts)
for a total of 50 seconds over a 100-second period.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
The PCM will illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp
(MIL) the first time the fault is detected.
The PCM will substitute the ECT reading with a default
engine coolant temperature value. The default value
is based on start-up intake air temperature and running
time.
The PCM will store conditions which were present
when the DTC was set as Freeze Frame and in the
Failure Records data.
Conditions for Clearing the MIL/DTC
DTC P0118 can be cleared by using the Tech 2 “Clear
Info” function or by disconnecting the PCM battery
feed.
Diagnostic Aids
Check for the following conditions:
The ECT shares a ground with the Transmission Fluid
Temperature sensor, the Rough Road sensor, and the
MAP sensor.
Check the ground if these DTCs are also set.
Poor connection at PCM – Inspect harness connectors
for backed-out terminals, improper mating, broken
locks, improperly formed or damaged terminals, and
poor terminal-to-wire connection.
Damaged harness – Inspect the wiring harness for
damage. If the harness appears to be OK, observe the
ECT display on the Tech 2 while moving connectors
and wiring harnesses related to the ECT sensor. A
change in the ECT display will indicate the location of
the fault.
If DTC P0118 cannot be duplicated, the information
included in the Failure Records data can be useful in
determining vehicle mileage since the DTC was last set.
If it is determined that the DTC occurs intermittently,
performing the DTC P1115 Diagnostic Chart may isolate
the cause of the fault.

6E–288
ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
Default Matrix Table
Service Procedure Default Strategy
A referral strategy has been established to assist the
technician with additional information when the cause of
the failure cannot be determined. If no problem is found
after performing diagnostics, then refer to the default
matrix table for further diagnostic information.
Default Matrix Table
Strategy Based Diagnostic Charts
Initial DiagnosisDefault Section(s)
On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System
CheckVehicle does not enter diagnostics.Chassis Electrical
On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System
CheckVehicle enters diagnostics and
communicates with Tech 2. MIL is
“ON” in diagnostics. Engine does not
start and run.Ignition System Check
On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System
CheckEngine starts and runs, no PCM
codes set. Customer complains of
vibration.—
On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System
CheckEngine starts and runs, no PCM
codes set. Customer complains of
harsh or soft shift, poor performance,
delayed or no engagement into drive
or reverse, transmission fluid leak,
transmission noise or vibration, or
improper TCC operation.Automatic Transmission
PCM Power and Ground CheckOn-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System
Check.Chassis Electrical
PCM Power and Ground CheckOn-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System
Check. PCM power and ground
circuits OK. Data link voltage
incorrect.Chassis Electrical
On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System
CheckEngine starts and runs, no PCM
codes set. Customer complains of
harsh or soft shift, poor performance,
delayed or no engagement into drive
or reverse, transmission fluid leak,
transmission noise or vibration, or
improper TCC operation.Automatic Transmission
SymptomsInitial DiagnosisDefault Section(s)
Intermittents1. On-board Diagnostic (OBD)
system check.
2. Careful visual/physical
inspections.Chassis Electrical
Hard Starts1. OBD system check.
2. Sensors (ECT, MAP, MAF, TP) ;
MAP output chart.
3. Fuel system electrical test, fuel
system diagnosis.
4. Ignition system.
5. IAC system check.Engine Mechanical, Ignition
System Check, Exhaust System
Diagnosis
Surges and/or Chuggles1. OBD system check.
2. Heated oxygen sensors.
3. Fuel system diagnosis.
4. Ignition system.Calibration ID “Broadcast
Code”/Service Bulletins, Ignition
System Check, Generator
Output, Exhaust System
Diagnosis, 4L30-E System Test

6E–56
4JX1–TC ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0107 (Flash DTC 34)
MAP Sensor Circuit Low Voltage
060RW134
Circuit Description
The manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor responds
to changes in intake manifold pressure (vacuum).
The ECM monitors the MAP signals for voltages outside
the normal range of the MAP sensor. If the ECM detects a
MAP signal voltage that is excessively low, DTC P0107
will be set.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
The ECM will illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp
(MIL) the first time the fault is detected.
The ECM will store conditions which were present
when the DTC was set as Freeze Frame and in the
Failure Records data.
Conditions for Clearing the MIL/DTC
DTC P0107 can be cleared by using the Tech 2 “Clear
Info” function or by disconnecting the ECM battery
feed.
Diagnostic Aids
Check for the following conditions:
Turn on the ignition switch and stop the engine. At this
time, the boost pressure will be equal to the
atmospheric pressure and the signal voltage will
increase.
Check for intermittent codes.
The MAP sensor shares a ground with the ECT sensor,
and the Transmission Fluid Temperature sensor.
Poor connection at ECM – Inspect harness connectors
for backed-out terminals, improper mating, broken
locks, improperly formed or damaged terminals, and
poor terminal-to-wire connection.
Damaged harness – Inspect the wiring harness for
damage. If the harness appears to be OK, observe the
MAP display on the Tech 2 while moving connectors
and wiring harnesses related to the sensor. A change
in the display will indicate the location of the fault.
If DTC P0107 cannot be duplicated, the information
included in the Failure Records data can be useful in
determining vehicle mileage since the DTC was last set.
If it is determined that the DTC occurs intermittently,
performing the DTC P0107 Diagnostic Chart may isolate
the cause of the fault.

6E–199 4JX1–TC ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
Default Matrix Table
Service Procedure Default Strategy
A referral strategy has been established to assist the
technician with additional information when the cause ofthe failure cannot be determined. If no problem is found
after performing diagnostics, then refer to the default
matrix table for further diagnostic information.
Default Matrix Table
Strategy Based Diagnostic ChartsInitial DiagnosisDefault Section(s)
On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System
CheckVehicle does not enter diagnostics.Chassis Electrical
On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System
CheckVehicle enters diagnostics and
communicates with the Tech 2. MIL is
“ON” in diagnostics. Engine does not
start and run.HEUI System Check
On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System
CheckEngine starts and runs, no ECM codes
set. Customer complains of vibration.—
On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System
CheckEngine starts and runs, no ECM codes
set. Customer complains of harsh or
soft shift, poor performance, delayed or
no engagement into drive or reverse,
transmission fluid leak, transmission
noise or vibration, or improper TCC
operation.Automatic Transmission
ECM Power and Ground CheckOn-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System
Check.Chassis Electrical
ECM Power and Ground CheckOn-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System
Check. ECM power and ground circuits
OK. Data link voltage incorrect.Chassis Electrical
On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System
CheckEngine starts and runs, no ECM codes
set. Customer complains of harsh or
soft shift, poor performance, delayed or
no engagement into drive or reverse,
transmission fluid leak, transmission
noise or vibration, or improper TCC
operation.Automatic Transmission
SymptomsInitial DiagnosisDefault Section(s)
Intermittents1. On-board diagnostic (OBD)
system check.
2. Careful visual/physical inspections.Chassis Electrical
Hard Starts1. OBD system check.
2. Sensors (ECT, MAP, EGR, AP) ;
output chart.
3. Fuel system electrical test, fuel
system diagnosis.
4. Injector system.Engine Mechanical, Injector
System Check, Exhaust System
Diagnosis
Surges and/or Chuggles1. OBD system check.
2. Fuel system diagnosis.
3. Injector system.Calibration ID “Broadcast”
/Service Bulletins, Ignition
System Check, Generator
Output, Exhaust System
Diagnosis
Lack of Power, Sluggish or Spongy1. OBD system check.
2. Fuel system diagnosis.
3. Injector system.Refer to Exhaust System in
Engine Exhaust, TCC
Operation, Calibration
ID/Service Bulletins

7A–1 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION (4L30–E)
TRANSMISSION
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION (4L30–E)
CONTENTS
Service Precaution 7A–3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Construction 7A–3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Range Reference Chart 7A–4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Normal Operation Of 2000 4L30–E
Transmission 7A–5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Diagnosis 7A–5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driver Information 7A–5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General Diagnosis Procedure 7A–8. . . . . . . . . . . . .
Preliminary Inspection Chart 7A–9. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking Transmission Fluid Level and
Condition 7A–10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Test Driving 7A–11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mechanical / Hydraulic Diagnosis Check Trans
Indicator Chart 7A–12. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mechanical / Hydraulic Diagnosis
Symptoms Index 7A–13. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stall Test 7A–23. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Line Pressure Test 7A–23. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shift Speed Chart (V6 3.2L 6VD1 Model) 7A–24. . .
Shift Speed Chart (V6 3.5L 6VE1 Model) 7A–26. .
Lockup Speed Chart (V6 3.2L 6VD1 Model) 7A–28
Lockup Speed Chart (V6 3.5L 6VE1 Model) 7A–28
Changing Transmission Fluid 7A–29. . . . . . . . . . . . .
Selector Lever 7A–29. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inspection 7A–29. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removal 7A–30. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installation 7A–30. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mode Switch 7A–31. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removal 7A–31. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installation 7A–31. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transmission (With Transfer Case) 7A–33. . . . . . . .
Transmission And Associated Parts 7A–33. . . . . .
Removal 7A–33. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installation 7A–35. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Solenoid (Main Case Valve Body) 7A–39. . . . . . . . .
Removal 7A–39. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installation 7A–39. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Solenoid (Adapter Case Valve Body) 7A–40. . . . . . .
Removal 7A–40. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installation 7A–40. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Valve Body Assembly (Main Case) 7A–41. . . . . . . .
Removal 7A–41. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installation 7A–41. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Valve Body Assembly (Adapter Case) 7A–43. . . . . .
Removal 7A–43. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Installation 7A–43. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) 7A–43. . . . . . . . .
Removal 7A–43. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installation 7A–43. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Speed Sensor (Extension Housing) 7A–44. . . . . . . .
Removal 7A–44. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installation 7A–44. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transmission Oil Temperature Sensor
(Adapter Case) 7A–44. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removal 7A–44. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installation 7A–45. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Front Oil Seal (Converter Housing) 7A–45. . . . . . . .
Removal 7A–45. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installation 7A–45. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rear Oil Seal (Extension Housing) 7A–46. . . . . . . . .
Removal 7A–46. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installation 7A–46. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transmission (4L30–E) 7A–46. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disassembly 7A–46. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reassembly 7A–50. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Converter Housing And Oil Pump Assembly 7A–60
Disassembled View 7A–60. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disassembly 7A–60. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inspection And Repair 7A–60. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reassembly 7A–60. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Oil Pump 7A–61. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disassembled View 7A–61. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disassembly 7A–61. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inspection And Repair 7A–61. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reassembly 7A–61. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Main Case Valve Body 7A–62. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disassembled View 7A–62. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disassembly 7A–62. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inspection And Repair 7A–63. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reassembly 7A–63. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adapter Case Valve Body 7A–64. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disassembled View 7A–64. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disassembly 7A–64. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inspection And Repair 7A–64. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reassembly 7A–64. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Third Clutch And Sprag Unit 7A–65. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disassembled View 7A–65. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Disassembly 7A–65. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inspection And Repair 7A–66. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7A–10
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION (4L30–E)
Checking Transmission Fluid Level
and Condition
Checking fluid level and condition (color and odor) at
regular intervals will provide early diagnosis information
about the transmission. This information may be used to
correct a condition that, if not detected early, could result
in major transmission repairs.
IMPORTANT:When new, automatic transmission fluid
is red in color. As the vehicle is driven, the transmission
fluid will begin to look darker in color. The color may
eventually appear light brown.
A dark brown color with burnt odor may indicate
excessive fluid deterioration and signal a need for fluid
change.
Fluid Level
When adding or changing fluid, use only DEXRON –III.
Refer to Maintenance and Lubrication in General
Information section for maintenance information and
servicing interval.
CAUTION: DO NOT OVERFILL.
Overfilling will cause foaming, loss of fluid, abnor-
mal shifting and possible damage to the transmis-
sion.
1. Park the vehicle on level ground and apply the parking
brake firmly.
2. Check fluid level with engine running at idle.
NOTE: Be sure that transmission fluid temperature is
below 30
C (86F).
3. Move the selector lever through all gear ranges.
4. Move the selector lever to “Park”.
5. Let engine idle for 3 minutes and open the overfill
screw (1).
6. Add released transmission fluid until it flows out over
the overfill screw opening.
7. Let engine idle until a fluid temperature between 32
C
(90
F) and 57C (135F) is reached, then close the
overfill screw (1).
Torque: 38 N
m (3.9 kgꞏm/28 lb ft)
NOTE: To prevent fluid leaks, the overfill screw and oil
drain screws gasket must be replaced each time these
screws are removed.NOTE: Check transmission fluid temperature with scan
tool.
Minimum fluid level
57C (135F)
Maximum fluid level
32C (90F)
242RW003
CAUTION: Do not open overfill screw with engine
stopped.
CAUTION: DO NOT CHECK FLUID LEVEL UNDER
THESE CONDITIONS:
Immediately after driving at sustained highway
speeds.
In heavy city traffic during hot weather.
If vehicle is towing a trailer.
If the vehicle has been operated under these conditions,
shut the engine off and allow the vehicle to “cool” for thirty
(30) minutes. After the cool down period, restart the
vehicle and continue from step 2 above.

7A–11 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION (4L30–E)
Fluid Condition
FLUID CONDITION
NORMAL*CONTAMINATED
COLORRED OR LIGHT
BROWNBROWNNON–TRANSPARENT
/ PINKBROWN
DRAIN
REQUIRED?NOYESYESYES
CONTAMINA–
TIONNONEVery small amount of
foreign material in
bottom of panContamination by
coolant or other sourceLarge pieces of metal
or other foreign
material in bottom of
pan
CORRECT
LEVEL AND
CONDITION
1. LOW LEVEL:
A. Add fluid to
obtain proper
level & check for
external leaks.
B. Correct cause of
leak.
2. HIGH LEVEL:
– Remove excess
fluid– Remove both pans
– Change filter
– Flush cooler
– Add new fluid
– Check level– Repair/replace
radiator cooler
–Transmission
overhaul required
– Check for:
Damaged plates
and seals
Contaminated
solenoids
– Flush cooler
– Add new fluid
– Check level
–Transmission
overhaul required
– Flush cooler and
cooler lines
– Add new fluid
– Check level
*Fluid should be changed according to maintenance
schedule.
Te s t D r i v i n g
Some 4L30–E automatic transmission complaints will
require a test drive as a part of the diagnostic procedure.
Some codes will not set unless the vehicle is moving. The
purpose of the test drive is to duplicate the customer’s
complaint condition and set a current Powertrain Control
Module (PCM) trouble code. Perform this procedure
before each 4L30–E automatic transmission repair, and
again after repairs are made.
IMPORTANT:
Duplicate the condition under which the customer’s
complaint was observed.
Depending on the complaint, the line pressure gauge
and the scan tool may be required during the test
drive.
During the test drive, it is important to record all
necessary data from the areas being monitored, for
use in diagnosis. Also listen for and note any unusual
noises.
The following procedure should be used to test drive
4L30–E automatic transmission complaint vehicles:
1. Turn the ignition ON without starting the engine.
Check that the “CHECK TRANS” lamp comes on for
approximately 2 seconds and then goes out and
remains out.
If the lamp is flashing, GOTO Check Trans Indicator
in Transmission Control System (4L30–E) section.
If no serial data is present, GOTO OBD System
Check. Refer to Driveability and Emissions in
Engine section.
If the lamp stays ON or stays OFF, GOTO “Check
Trans” Check in Transmission Control System
(4L30–E) section.
2. Drive the vehicle. During the test drive, be sure that
the transmission achieves normal operating
temperature (approx. 20 minutes).
Allow the transmission to go through all of its gear
ranges, checking shift timing and firmness. Duplicate
the owner’s complaint condition as closely as
possible during the test drive.
3. If, during the test drive, the “CHECK TRANS” lamp
comes on, use the scan tool to check for trouble
codes.
4. If, during the test drive, a problem is felt, but the
“CHECK TRANS” lamp does not come on and no
trouble codes are present, drive the vehicle with the
PCM disconnected (manually shifting the vehicle).
In Manual L, the vehicle operates in first gear.
In Manual 2, the vehicle operates in third gear.
In Manual 3 or “D”, the vehicle operates in fourth
gear.
If the problem still exists with the PCM disconnected,
refer to Mechanical/Hydraulic Diagnosis in this
section.
5. If no problem has been found at this point, check all
underhood connections that supply power to the PCM
and ignition fuses. Physically and visually inspect all
the PCM harness connectors for loose or corroded
terminals. Inspect the PCM ground points.