In my anger and frustration, and because it wasn't raining for once in Ohio, I decided that I would finally replace my manual transmission fluid in my '04 TL. The current shifting is a joke so I bought the GM/AC Delco stuff, which I was really excited about. Anyways, I was removing the fill plug from the engine bay, and somehow ended up rounding off the bolt. I was using two extensions, and my breaker bar, so I was really surprised this happened--it was on extremely tight; probably because it was put back on with an impact or something last time it was changed.

Any ideas as to how I can combat this issue? Any way to remove it now? Is it possible to fill the necessary fluid from the bottom of the car through the check plug? Will I be able to get the full amount of fluid in through there. I am referring to the bolt that is situated a couple inches above the drain plug.

I was looking at this DIY guide: https://acurazine.com/forums/3g-tl-2004-2008-93/%2A-6-spd-tranny-fluid-change-%2A-3g-garage-c-013-a-558814/

My brother said he changed his fluid on his '08 SI through the plug just above the drain plug, but his required a lot less fluid. He said he used a syringe to pump it all in there. Any ideas guys!?

 

IF M/T has a dipstick to check fluid levels. I would fill it in from there.
If not, you'll need to buy one of those bolt stripped sockets to remove.

I had to do that with my TL. I let the engine get to operating temperature so the bolt is hot enough to break loose.

I bet you the aluminum ring thats on the fill bolt isnt even there.

 

Do you have an automatic transmission? I think the fill plug bolt is different on automatic and manual. Look at the 4th picture in the link I posted. That is what is rounded out.

 

Yes, you can fill it through the check plug. On level surface, just keep filling until it won't accept anymore and runs out.

 

Okay, thanks. What if I have the front up on jack stands?

 

^This.

I havent used one before, but i dont know if there is really another option. Yes you can refill through the dipstick, but it will take you forever, and thats not really what its for.
I thought about drilling it off, but i dont think it would be good for the metal pieces to fall into your transmission. If it was the drain bolt, not the fill, you may be able to drill. But just be careful.
If all else fails, take it to a shop. Mechanics run into this sorta thing daily, especially when they are working on older cars.

Good luck!

 

This is where a Impact wrench does wonders.

 

Not that it matters, but this is also why I try to use 6 sided sockets instead of the 12 sided sockets... Less bolt stripping...

 

If you're up on stands in the front, the fluid may not drain properly, so leave the drain plug out and drop the car down to be certain it has all drained out. Then, lift it back up and add 2.2 L, 2.3 Qts. and you'll be good to go.

 

Anyone know of an efficient way to pump the fluid into such a small hole??

 

Does anyone the diameter of the fill hole for the transmission fluid? I don't want to take off the bolt and have everything start coming out if I wont be able to get anything back in! I was thinking this product might be a good way to get the fluid in.

http://www.etoolcart.com/suction-gun-atd-5004.aspx