2011 Chevrolet Impala Owner's Manual - Page 269

Vehicle Care How to Check Automatic Transmission Fluid Because this operation can be a little difficult, it may be decided to have this done at the dealer service department. If not taken to the dealer, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or a false reading on the dipstick could result. Notice: Too much or too little fluid can damage the transmission. Too much can mean that some of the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine parts or exhaust system parts, starting a fire. Too little fluid could cause the transmission to overheat. Be sure to get an accurate reading if checking the transmission fluid. Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transmission fluid level if you have been driving: . 10-13 Checking the Fluid Level Prepare your vehicle as follows: 1. Park the vehicle on a level place. Keep the engine running. 2. With the parking brake applied, place the shift lever in P (Park). 3. With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shift lever through each gear range, pausing for about three seconds in each range. Then, position the shift lever in P (Park). 4. Let the engine run at idle for three to five minutes. When outside temperatures are above 32°C (90°F). At high speed for quite a while. In heavy traffic - especially in hot weather. While pulling a trailer. . . . To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal operating temperature, which is 82°C to 93°C (180°F to 200°F). Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about 24 km (15 mi) when outside temperatures are above 10°C (50°F). If it is colder than 10°C (50°F), the vehicle may have to be driven longer.