Cavalier manual transmission fluid check

The original Dexron transmission fluid formula was designed by General Motors for use in GM cars with automatic transmissions. Dexron II and Dexron IIE, specially formulated for electric transmissions, contained additives for better oxidation inhibition and viscosity control. Leave the engine running when checking transmission fluid levels in Cavaliers with an oil level control plugs; this will prevent the transmission fluid, which is often extremely hot, from pouring out from the plug.

Transmission fluid levels should be flush with the screw-like threads found on the oil level control plug. Modern automatic transmissions are incredibly good. They can provide years of maintenance free service. But, they need transmission fluid to operate.

By the time you are experiencing the symptoms of low transmission fluid, damage is already being done. A transmission with low fluid can become seriously damaged, and leave you stranded. You really want to do anything that you can to avoid running your transmission if you think that it is critically low on fluid. This is different from a manual transmission, which uses oil for lubrication only. You should also visually inspect your transmission coolant lines. The pan gasket, and pan itself will often leak as well.

It never got low and was always bright red. However, I disagree with him on the idea that fluid in a manual transmission never needs to be changed. Without even going into any technical discussions, I know for a fact that many owner manuals DO have a service interval for the fluid in the manual transmission. I stand corrected about the vent, but the gears and oil in a manual transmission do not get all that hot. It is not under pressure like in an AT. If it is an allen stud you might want to use a maybe 8mm allen socket.

Seems like Tester is right on not using Dexron VI in a manual transmission. I also see that Dexron VI may not necessarily always be synthetic. My apology for the bum steer.

OK, a little more research shows that the reason Dexron VI is not recommended for those earlier manual transmissions is that it was introduced after GM stopped using ATF in more recent manual transmissions so it was never tested or approved for that application. But I doubt a fluid change will fix anything at this stage. Let me clarify. See my follow-up posts below.