Transmission fluid level
#4
Drifting
Correct...page 542 of the downloadable owners manual states: "Have a dealer check the fluid level and replace as necessary...do not attempt to check or change the fluid yourself"
EDIT: Just to be clear, I'm referring to the '19 RDX, your image shows a previous gen RDX.
EDIT: Just to be clear, I'm referring to the '19 RDX, your image shows a previous gen RDX.
#5
thanks, yes still using my previous ‘13 RDX, for profile pictures..
#6
Drifting
These modern high-gear-count transmissions aren't amenable to DIY servicing. Same with the ZF 9-speed. Not impossible to DIY, just probably not advisable, especially when it's under warranty.
Considering there's only likely to be one or two ATF changes during the powertrain warranty period, I'll just let the dealer do it.
But if it's acting up and you were just thinking of checking the ATF level as a troubleshooting measure, that's not easy. First step is probably to have the dealer check for trouble codes.
Considering there's only likely to be one or two ATF changes during the powertrain warranty period, I'll just let the dealer do it.
But if it's acting up and you were just thinking of checking the ATF level as a troubleshooting measure, that's not easy. First step is probably to have the dealer check for trouble codes.
#7
Burning Brakes
These modern high-gear-count transmissions aren't amenable to DIY servicing. Same with the ZF 9-speed. Not impossible to DIY, just probably not advisable, especially when it's under warranty.
Considering there's only likely to be one or two ATF changes during the powertrain warranty period, I'll just let the dealer do it.
But if it's acting up and you were just thinking of checking the ATF level as a troubleshooting measure, that's not easy. First step is probably to have the dealer check for trouble codes.
Considering there's only likely to be one or two ATF changes during the powertrain warranty period, I'll just let the dealer do it.
But if it's acting up and you were just thinking of checking the ATF level as a troubleshooting measure, that's not easy. First step is probably to have the dealer check for trouble codes.
Last edited by Dereileak; 04-14-2019 at 12:19 AM.
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#9
Drifting
That's great that you provided the procedure for those who wish to do this themselves!
I'm at a point in my life that I will no longer do much more than change a wiper blade. Unfortunately, age has caught up with my desire and ability to do these DIY projects. This wasn't the case in prior years, had all the tools: two floor jacks, creeper, stands, etc. Still have a large tool chest full of tools, if only one of my sons was inclined to work on cars. Millennials!
Other than wanting to insure that it is done right, I honestly don't miss the skinned knuckles etc. This being an amazing vehicle to drive, I intend to enjoy driving it and not working on it. The dealer will get some of my money and service business. I used to enjoy doing this. Oh well. I can't tell you how many quarts of oil I changed, and how many water pumps, alternators, radiator hoses, fan belts, spark plugs, points, condensers, etc. I put in my 68 Cutlass and 70 Camaro back in the day. Of course, things have changed, and for the better. My father-in-law, may he rest in peace, used to tell me (we should be able to weld the hoods shut on cars and they should last 100,000 miles). And he always did his own repairs/maintenance.
I'm at a point in my life that I will no longer do much more than change a wiper blade. Unfortunately, age has caught up with my desire and ability to do these DIY projects. This wasn't the case in prior years, had all the tools: two floor jacks, creeper, stands, etc. Still have a large tool chest full of tools, if only one of my sons was inclined to work on cars. Millennials!
Other than wanting to insure that it is done right, I honestly don't miss the skinned knuckles etc. This being an amazing vehicle to drive, I intend to enjoy driving it and not working on it. The dealer will get some of my money and service business. I used to enjoy doing this. Oh well. I can't tell you how many quarts of oil I changed, and how many water pumps, alternators, radiator hoses, fan belts, spark plugs, points, condensers, etc. I put in my 68 Cutlass and 70 Camaro back in the day. Of course, things have changed, and for the better. My father-in-law, may he rest in peace, used to tell me (we should be able to weld the hoods shut on cars and they should last 100,000 miles). And he always did his own repairs/maintenance.
#10
Instructor
I disagree, after reading the steps for a transmission fluid change it’s actually a very very simple procedure and I see no reason to pay the dealer big bucks to do something as easy as drain and fill, on top of the fact that your warranty will be just as intact if you DIY it, as long as you follow the procedure and use the proper fluid, and of course document what you did, and although it’s not as easy as checking a dip stick, the procedure to check the fluid level is also fairly easy. As someone who takes extra care when doing anything, I would much rather trust myself over my dealer for this work
#11
Drifting
• Engine warmed up to normal operating temp, with the undercover removed.
• "Check the ATF level right after shifting the transmission through all of the positions/modes and turning the engine off."
• And, of course, the vehicle must be level.
Pulling the plugs is easy. Satisfying the above conditions would be a lot easier with a lift than without. And the accuracy of the result is dependent upon them.
As I said, not impossible. Difficult to do right.
But it's not as hard as the ZF 9-speed because AFAIK the ATF in this trans doesn't expand as much with temperature as the crazy ( and crazy expensive ) stuff used in that trans.
I think part of the reason this thing doesn't have a dipstick is because it's sensitive to contamination. But I have no evidence to back that up. Just general angst about these transmissions. I routinely change ATF in 5-6 speed transmissions.
• "Check the ATF level right after shifting the transmission through all of the positions/modes and turning the engine off."
• And, of course, the vehicle must be level.
Pulling the plugs is easy. Satisfying the above conditions would be a lot easier with a lift than without. And the accuracy of the result is dependent upon them.
As I said, not impossible. Difficult to do right.
But it's not as hard as the ZF 9-speed because AFAIK the ATF in this trans doesn't expand as much with temperature as the crazy ( and crazy expensive ) stuff used in that trans.
I think part of the reason this thing doesn't have a dipstick is because it's sensitive to contamination. But I have no evidence to back that up. Just general angst about these transmissions. I routinely change ATF in 5-6 speed transmissions.
Last edited by Wander; 04-14-2019 at 11:32 AM.
#12
These modern high-gear-count transmissions aren't amenable to DIY servicing. Same with the ZF 9-speed. Not impossible to DIY, just probably not advisable, especially when it's under warranty.
Considering there's only likely to be one or two ATF changes during the powertrain warranty period, I'll just let the dealer do it.
But if it's acting up and you were just thinking of checking the ATF level as a troubleshooting measure, that's not easy. First step is probably to have the dealer check for trouble codes.
Considering there's only likely to be one or two ATF changes during the powertrain warranty period, I'll just let the dealer do it.
But if it's acting up and you were just thinking of checking the ATF level as a troubleshooting measure, that's not easy. First step is probably to have the dealer check for trouble codes.
#13
Burning Brakes
i have been curious of some of the jumpy shifts could be related to a low ATF level out of the factory. Has anyone body checked their levels ?? Mine clear up once warm but perhaps it’s slightly low on fluid
#14
Thanks very much for posting the procedure. Last week I went by the Acura place to get a problem fixed on the RDX and picked up trans/diff fluids to change those on my '05 MDX. I was wondering if I'd be able to do it on the RDX.
#16
Drifting
That is good practice on the 2005 MDX with the 5-speed transmission, especially because of the cumulative miles and years of use. That's what I usually do with our well-loved 2005. And also with its stablemate, a 2014 MDX ( 6-speed ). That ATF is pretty cheap, so it mostly costs my time. But this is considered a "flush", not a routine ATF change. AFAIK a dealer would charge extra for that.
Dunno on 2019 RDX, but I probably won't worry about it for the first couple of changes. YMMV
BTW, it's a different ATF fluid for the 10-speed than 5 or 6 speed, and I think it's a couple bucks more expensive. 10-speed needs Honda/Acura Type 2.0; 5 and 6 speed take DW-1. They are NOT cross-compatible.
BTW, @Derieileak, are you aware of the "clutch break-in procedure" that may be applicable to particularly "jumpy shifting" 2019 RDX's? ( Dealer service ) This is a known issue for the low-gear shifts, especially with very early production 2019 RDX's that don't have much wear on them. I wouldn't say mine is silky smooth, but I do think it's getting a bit smoother with wear. YMMV
Dunno on 2019 RDX, but I probably won't worry about it for the first couple of changes. YMMV
BTW, it's a different ATF fluid for the 10-speed than 5 or 6 speed, and I think it's a couple bucks more expensive. 10-speed needs Honda/Acura Type 2.0; 5 and 6 speed take DW-1. They are NOT cross-compatible.
BTW, @Derieileak, are you aware of the "clutch break-in procedure" that may be applicable to particularly "jumpy shifting" 2019 RDX's? ( Dealer service ) This is a known issue for the low-gear shifts, especially with very early production 2019 RDX's that don't have much wear on them. I wouldn't say mine is silky smooth, but I do think it's getting a bit smoother with wear. YMMV
Last edited by Wander; 04-14-2019 at 08:20 PM.
#17
Burning Brakes
That is good practice on the 2005 MDX with the 5-speed transmission, especially because of the cumulative miles and years of use. That's what I usually do with our well-loved 2005. And also with its stablemate, a 2014 MDX ( 6-speed ). That ATF is pretty cheap, so it mostly costs my time. But this is considered a "flush", not a routine ATF change. AFAIK a dealer would charge extra for that.
Dunno on 2019 RDX, but I probably won't worry about it for the first couple of changes. YMMV
BTW, it's a different ATF fluid for the 10-speed than 5 or 6 speed, and I think it's a couple bucks more expensive. 10-speed needs Honda/Acura Type 2.0; 5 and 6 speed take DW-1. They are NOT cross-compatible.
BTW, @Derieileak, are you aware of the "clutch break-in procedure" that may be applicable to particularly "jumpy shifting" 2019 RDX's? ( Dealer service ) This is a known issue for the low-gear shifts, especially with very early production 2019 RDX's that don't have much wear on them. I wouldn't say mine is silky smooth, but I do think it's getting a bit smoother with wear. YMMV
Dunno on 2019 RDX, but I probably won't worry about it for the first couple of changes. YMMV
BTW, it's a different ATF fluid for the 10-speed than 5 or 6 speed, and I think it's a couple bucks more expensive. 10-speed needs Honda/Acura Type 2.0; 5 and 6 speed take DW-1. They are NOT cross-compatible.
BTW, @Derieileak, are you aware of the "clutch break-in procedure" that may be applicable to particularly "jumpy shifting" 2019 RDX's? ( Dealer service ) This is a known issue for the low-gear shifts, especially with very early production 2019 RDX's that don't have much wear on them. I wouldn't say mine is silky smooth, but I do think it's getting a bit smoother with wear. YMMV
also I will add exactly what you emphasized, the hardest part of the ATF change is not having a lift and needing the Car level to do it correctly, I’ll probably have to buy a few more jack stands to do mine
![Big Grin](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/biggrin.gif)
Last edited by Dereileak; 04-14-2019 at 11:33 PM.
#18
Drifting
Front transfer case is usually serviced on the same schedule as the transmission. I think mostly because they are inches apart.
It just takes about a half quart of hypoid gear oil, so no biggie. The hardest part is pumping the stuff in there with a hand pump, especially if it's cold.
It just takes about a half quart of hypoid gear oil, so no biggie. The hardest part is pumping the stuff in there with a hand pump, especially if it's cold.
#19
I think that it is Acura kicking a dealer its dealers big mark up maintenance item. My shop loves to get my car so that they can overcharge for basic work and to recommend work that is not in the manual or is made up. My car has avoided the dealer for several years now. Some of the quotes that I have seen for basic oil/other fluid changes are crazy. Plus you get the "new kid" doing this work. You may be right that it is to protect the transmission......
#20
Drifting
I'm not sure how many, but there are a lot of current cars that don't have transmission dipsticks anymore, it is not unique to Acura.
The last Toyotas I owned didn't, and our current 2015 Ford Escape doesn't either. A quick search shows most Fords, Chevys, Toyotas, and Hondas don't either.
Here's an interesting (possible) explanation.
No dipstick
Another article with bit more info:
More info
The last Toyotas I owned didn't, and our current 2015 Ford Escape doesn't either. A quick search shows most Fords, Chevys, Toyotas, and Hondas don't either.
Here's an interesting (possible) explanation.
No dipstick
Another article with bit more info:
More info
Last edited by JB in AZ; 04-15-2019 at 10:23 AM.
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#21
Drifting
I hadn't thought about the quickie lube places possibly using the wrong fluid ( or worse yet, hooking it up to one of their power-flush machines ). I stopped using those places many years ago.
OTOH both of those blurbs are from independent service groups, and they sound like infomercials.
OTOH both of those blurbs are from independent service groups, and they sound like infomercials.
#22
Drifting
I hadn't thought about the quickie lube places possibly using the wrong fluid ( or worse yet, hooking it up to one of their power-flush machines ). I stopped using those places many years ago.
OTOH both of those blurbs are from independent service groups, and they sound like infomercials.
OTOH both of those blurbs are from independent service groups, and they sound like infomercials.
Anyway, it sounded reasonable.
I don't remember the first vehicle I had without a trans dipstick, but I do remember it was hotly debated on the forum at the time.
#23
You can do this accurately without a lift. Here's how I did it. Find an area of your driveway with a very slight hill grade, approximately 2 degrees. Your iPhone has a level to check this (go to compass and swipe sideways to change to level). Arrange the vehicle downslope on the grade. Drive the front two wheels up on 2" high wood boards (wide enough to be safe, say a 2x6) so the front of the vehicle is 2" raised. That makes the vehicle perfectly level and it allowed me enough clearance to get under the front. Then I changed the transmission fluid. After it's perfect, seal the bolts on and drive off the boards.
Wear eye protection and a rubber gloves for safety! And if neighbors tell you to take it to the dealer, wear earplugs.
Wear eye protection and a rubber gloves for safety! And if neighbors tell you to take it to the dealer, wear earplugs.
#24
I am trying to find exactly where the fill plug is. If I remove the wheel would that make it easier to remove that inner plastic flap and then find the plug. I managed to partially drain my transmission fluid instead of the oil and now I am 175 miles from a dealer to get it towed to. They need to put me in a home after that bone head move.
Any assistance would help.
Any assistance would help.
#25
I am trying to find exactly where the fill plug is. If I remove the wheel would that make it easier to remove that inner plastic flap and then find the plug. I managed to partially drain my transmission fluid instead of the oil and now I am 175 miles from a dealer to get it towed to. They need to put me in a home after that bone head move.
Any assistance would help.
Any assistance would help.
I don't think removing a wheel would have helped anyways because the ATF fill and level holes are central behind the grill. Use the diagram above; I had a 2020 RDX and it matched precisely. You'll need a pump to put the ATF in. Pump it in until it comes out the level hole. Then plug both and you're good to go.
As I recall when I unwrenched those plugs to open and close them back up after refilling I recall they were difficult to get at. I laid on my back under the front and reached up to get them. I could hardly see what I was doing but I could feel well enough with my hands to get it done. You can also see it from the top with the hood up. It might help to get a visual and a feel from the top, but then you'll need to get under the car to actually wrench them off and put them back on. I also pumped the ATF into the hole from under the car as well. Wear gloves and eye protection; not good stuff to work with.
#26
No need to remove a wheel. I was in the same predicament as you, drained the ATF when I meant to drain the oil instead, then I had to drive a different car to buy ATF and more oil. Don't feel bad!
I don't think removing a wheel would have helped anyways because the ATF fill and level holes are central behind the grill. Use the diagram above; I had a 2020 RDX and it matched precisely. You'll need a pump to put the ATF in. Pump it in until it comes out the level hole. Then plug both and you're good to go.
As I recall when I unwrenched those plugs to open and close them back up after refilling I recall they were difficult to get at. I laid on my back under the front and reached up to get them. I could hardly see what I was doing but I could feel well enough with my hands to get it done. You can also see it from the top with the hood up. It might help to get a visual and a feel from the top, but then you'll need to get under the car to actually wrench them off and put them back on. I also pumped the ATF into the hole from under the car as well. Wear gloves and eye protection; not good stuff to work with.
I don't think removing a wheel would have helped anyways because the ATF fill and level holes are central behind the grill. Use the diagram above; I had a 2020 RDX and it matched precisely. You'll need a pump to put the ATF in. Pump it in until it comes out the level hole. Then plug both and you're good to go.
As I recall when I unwrenched those plugs to open and close them back up after refilling I recall they were difficult to get at. I laid on my back under the front and reached up to get them. I could hardly see what I was doing but I could feel well enough with my hands to get it done. You can also see it from the top with the hood up. It might help to get a visual and a feel from the top, but then you'll need to get under the car to actually wrench them off and put them back on. I also pumped the ATF into the hole from under the car as well. Wear gloves and eye protection; not good stuff to work with.
#27
Just occurred to me you're looking at an MDX. This thread is for RDX ATF change though. MDX might be very different, hence the part about the wheel. Sorry I can't help with an MDX since mine was an RDX.
#31
Moderator
iTrader: (1)
When a service message appears, there is a code beneath the “maintenance due” message that indicates which type of Acura service is needed. When the code begins with an “A,” that means that the engine oil needs to be replaced. When the code begins with a “B,” more involved service is required. “B” items include some of the following items – replacing the engine oil and oil filter, inspecting the front and rear brakes, checking parking brake adjustment and expiry date for tire repair kit, as well as inspecting tie rod ends, steering gearbox, suspension components, driveshaft boots, brake hoses, all levels of fluid, exhaust system and fuel lines.
yes, the B service is supposed to check ALL LEVELS of FLUID
#32
Suzuka Master
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#36
Engine oil change I don't even need to lift the car up. I slide underneath. So a 4" tires off the ground would be good enough?
#37
Instructor
This is so true. It happens to me often and I complained to them. Dealer did not have the clips. They place an order and I have to wait several weeks for an appointment. It’s a waste of time even though it’s free. I purchase the clips for a few bucks and replace the clips myself. Besides broken clips the y also fucked up such as causing scratches they did to my infortainment. I only found out when I took it apart to install idle stopper. This is why I hesitated to bring my car to the dealer unless it’s a last resort and necessary for warranty work. Otherwise I do it myself.
#38
This is so true. It happens to me often and I complained to them. Dealer did not have the clips. They place an order and I have to wait several weeks for an appointment. It’s a waste of time even though it’s free. I purchase the clips for a few bucks and replace the clips myself. Besides broken clips the y also fucked up such as causing scratches they did to my infortainment. I only found out when I took it apart to install idle stopper. This is why I hesitated to bring my car to the dealer unless it’s a last resort and necessary for warranty work. Otherwise I do it myself.
![Smile](https://acurazine.com/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif)
#39
Suzuka Master
I suspect now its even more difficult to keep good techs, everyone is having shortages in staff, they
probably happy to hire almost anyone they can
Last edited by russianDude; 01-03-2022 at 05:46 PM.