Automatic Transmission Fluid

[unit731]

2004 ION 2 4 door sedan Regular automatic transmission.

I can't find a dipstick for trans fluid.

How often is this automatic transmission fluid supposed to be changed.

[2006 ion2]

first off, four door means nothing as all ions have four doors, do you have a coupe or sedan, either way your owner's manual tells you all info you need to know.

[Tethys]

The OP listed his vehicle as a sedan and he may not have an owner's manual if he bought his Ion used, for example.

Unit731 - have you tried the Search function on here? I thought I read in a past thread that the auto trans used for the Ion doesn't have a traditional dipstick (certainly not one with the red pull ring like the S-series had). I think the standard fluid flush and filter change interval is 60,000 miles but it may vary.

[2006 ion2]

You have a dipstick, but you don't need to check it unless you're filling it. As far as a change interval, 100,000miles is a universal standard for automatic transmissions. As to where the dipstick is, you have two nuts on top of the case, one is the dipstick, the other one drops the internals of your transmission and requires it to be reassembled.

[vintagegz]

here you go:

2007 Saturn ION | ION (VIN A) Service Manual | Transmission/Transaxle | Automatic Transaxle - 4T45-E | Diagnostic Information and Procedures |

Transmission Fluid Check


The oil level control plug (65) is located on the torque converter side of the transmission right hand axle seal passenger side.


1
Start the engine and allow the engine to idle until the transmission fluid temperature has reached the value specified.
Depress the brake pedal and move the shift lever through the gear ranges, pausing a few seconds in each range. Return the shift lever to the PARK range.
Remove the fluid vent cap.
Raise the vehicle on a hoist. The vehicle must be level, with the engine running and the shift lever in the PARK range. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
Caution: The engine must be running when the transmission fluid fill plug is removed, or excessive fluid loss will occur. Transmission fluid may be hot. Since the actual fluid level is unknown, stand clear when removing the fill plug. Have a container ready to capture any lost fluid. Do not turn the engine off with the fill plug removed, as you can be injured by hot transmission fluid being expelled out of the oil fill opening.

Remove the transmission oil level control plug (65). Refer to the graphic at the beginning of this procedure.
Important: The transmission fluid may darken with normal use and does not always indicate contamination or oxidation.

Check the fluid color. If necessary, use a small screwdriver as a dipstick.
Is the fluid color clear red or light brown with no burnt odor?
At least 40°C (104°F)
Go to Step 4
Go to Step 2

2
Does the fluid have a burnt odor or a dark brown color?
--
Go to Step 8
Go to Step 3

3
Does the fluid have a cloudy or milky appearance?
--
Go to Step 7
Go to Step 8

4
Check the fluid level. The fluid level should be even with the bottom of the threaded plug hole.

Is the fluid level low?
--
Go to Step 5
Go to Step 11

5
Add DEXRON®VI automatic transmission fluid in increments of 0.5 L (0.5 qt) until the fluid drains from the plug hole.

Did you add more than 1.5 L (1.6 qt) to the transmission?
--
Go to Step 6
Go to Step 11

6
The transmission may have a leak. Refer to Fluid Leak Diagnosis.

Was a transmission fluid leak found?
--
Go to Step 9
Go to Step 11

7
The transmission fluid is contaminated with engine coolant. Repair or replace the transmission cooler in the radiator.

Is the transmission cooler repair complete?
--
Go to Step 9
--

8
Drain the fluid by removing the bottom pan.
Important: A very small amount of material in the bottom of the bottom pan is a normal condition.

Check the bottom pan for any excessive debris.
Was excessive debris found?
--
Go to Step 9
Go to Step 10

9
Repair the transmission if required. In some cases, overhaul may be required.
Flush the transmission oil cooler and pipes and check flow. Refer to Transmission Fluid Cooler Flushing and Flow Test.
Remove the fluid vent cap.
Add enough DEXRON®VI automatic transmission fluid to bring the fluid level to the bottom of the threaded plug hole.
Start the engine and allow the engine to idle until the transmission fluid temperature has reached the value specified.
Depress the brake pedal and move the shift lever through the gear ranges, pausing a few seconds in each range. Return the shift lever to the PARK range.
Raise the vehicle on a hoist. The vehicle must be level, with the engine running and the shift lever in the PARK range. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
Caution: The engine must be running when the transmission fluid fill plug is removed, or excessive fluid loss will occur. Transmission fluid may be hot. Since the actual fluid level is unknown, stand clear when removing the fill plug. Have a container ready to capture any lost fluid. Do not turn the engine off with the fill plug removed, as you can be injured by hot transmission fluid being expelled out of the oil fill opening.

Remove the transmission plug.
If needed, add DEXRON®VI automatic transmission fluid in increments of 0.5 L (0.5 qt) until the fluid drains from the threaded plug hole.
Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

Important: Before installing the fill plug, apply GM P/N 12345382 (Canadian P/N 10953489) to the thread of the line pressure plug.

Allow fluid to finish draining out of the plug hole. Install the plug and tighten to specified value.
Wipe any excess fluid from the transmission with a rag or shop towel.
Install the fluid vent cap.
Is the repair complete?
At least 40°C (104°F)

12 N·m (9 lb ft)
System OK
--

10
Change the fluid and the fluid filter. Refer to Automatic Transmission Fluid Filter and Seal Replacement.
Start the engine and allow the engine to idle until the transmission fluid temperature has reached the value specified.
Depress the brake pedal and move the shift lever through the gear ranges, pausing a few seconds in each range. Return the shift lever to the PARK range.
Raise the vehicle on a hoist. The vehicle must be level with the engine running and the shift lever in the PARK range. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
Remove the fluid vent cap.
Caution: The engine must be running when the transmission fluid fill plug is removed, or excessive fluid loss will occur. Transmission fluid may be hot. Since the actual fluid level is unknown, stand clear when removing the fill plug. Have a container ready to capture any lost fluid. Do not turn the engine off with the fill plug removed, as you can be injured by hot transmission fluid being expelled out of the oil fill opening.

Remove the transmission plug.
If needed, add DEXRON®VI automatic transmission fluid in increments of 0.5 L (0.5 qt) until the fluid drains from the threaded plug hole.
Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

Important: Before installing the fill plug, apply GM P/N 12345382 (Canadian P/N 10953489) to the thread of the line pressure plug.

Allow fluid to finish draining out of the plug hole. Install the plug and tighten to specified value.
Wipe any excess fluid from the transmission with a rag or shop towel.
Install the fluid vent cap.
Is the repair complete?
At least 40°C (104°F)

12 N·m (9 lb ft)
System OK
--

11
Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

Important: Before installing the fill plug, apply GM P/N 12345382 (Canadian P/N 10953489) to the thread of the line pressure plug.

Allow fluid to finish draining out of the plug hole. Install the plug and tighten to specified value.
Wipe any excess fluid from the transmission with a rag or shop towel.
Install the fluid vent cap.
Is the repair complete?
12 N·m (9 lb ft)
System OK
--

[2006 ion2]

that's all well and good, but he has a 2004 with the aisin transmission, not the 2007 with the GM transmission. You gave him useless info.

[unit731]

Originally Posted by 2006 ion2

that's all well and good, but he has a 2004 with the aisin transmission, not the 2007 with the GM transmission. You gave him useless info.

I do appreciate all information. Thanks.

Yes, I do have a 2004. It is a 4 door sedan. Four real doors with handles inside and out. An ION 2.

OK. So the manual states 100,000 miles. What do others do? Wait till 100,000 miles, never change, change before the 100,000 miles?

I still don't get why there is no dip stick. Is this a different type of automatic transmission? Is the fluid completely different from all others.

I have the :
Description: 5 Speed Automatic Transmission, FWD

[2006 ion2]

the aisin has a bolt-in dipstick that looks conveniently like one of the bolts that holds the internals in place, where as the GM automatic, the CVT, and the manual have none. The manual and the GM auto have bolts that let excess fluid drain out, and the cvt needs a scan tool to tell the level.

[vintagegz]

sorry for the 'useless info', I forgot which transmission you had. Best thing is just go to the dealer and have them point out which bolt needs removing if you have a good relationship with one of the mechanics ( it may cost you a coffee for the guy, but worth it). Good luck.

[nababbo]

I've never looked into it as I have a manual trans, but Haines and Chilton have manuals for the Ion. Grab one and you'll know what to do. Also, I personally do not like to let the trans fluid go past 50,000 miles. In tough conditions 30,000 miles. No matter what, definitely not 100,000 miles.

[unit731]

I can't change it myself.

Anyone had the transmission fluid changed by dealer or shop?

What was the cost for you?

[BobbyP]

Originally Posted by nababbo

I've never looked into it as I have a manual trans, but Haines and Chilton have manuals for the Ion. Grab one and you'll know what to do. Also, I personally do not like to let the trans fluid go past 50,000 miles. In tough conditions 30,000 miles. No matter what, definitely not 100,000 miles.

X10 Transmission fluid should be changed more often than the manufacturer recommends. Every 30k wold be a good number.

Keep in mind that transmission fluid breaks down from heat. Heavy city driving, driving with a load, hard driving, and hot climates break down the fluid earlier.

Call and get prices from your dealer, and transmission repair centers. I suspect it would be around $100. Aamco in some areas have a special where they change the fluid yearly all for one price. You may want to check on this.

[unit731]

Thanks.