ATF Level/Dip Stick Question

[Mako Koiwai]

I recently check my ATF level in the Miata Support Vehicle, ie. Toyota Previa van ... and discovered that the ATF level was WAY high. It must have been like that since getting the fluid replaced last year. That dip stick is hidden under a trap door beneath the front seat (motor is Mid Engine). Don't access it very often ... because you can check the engine oil level, water, etc. from under the front hood.

How bad is that?

[George Schilling]

Was the car warm and the engine running? If not, try it again under those circumstances.

[Mako Koiwai]

My photo shows the approx level of the warm and cold over filled levels ... which equals the same differential between the recommended cold and hot notches.

[Bob Beamesderfer]

The notches indicate the normal range for warm and cold measurements. Even if the fluid is cold, you still need to check it with the engine running, after moving the gear selector through all positions.

[Mako Koiwai]

Hot it's about two inches over the hot mark, cold it's about 1.5 inches over the hot mark

[Bob Beamesderfer]

You could always carefully open the drain and let it bit out and re-measure. Start with a pint and see what happens. Overfilled, it could leak past a seal.

[Mako Koiwai]

I think I should take it back to the authorized dealer who did the service and have THEM do the dirty work. }:)

[Eric Clements]

Don't forget that different transmissions need to be checked in different ways. 700r4 in park, 47re in neutral. Check your owners manual to be sure you're checking the fluid level in the proper manner.