2010 GMC Savana 2500 Cargo Owner's Manual - Page 285

How to Add Automatic Transmission Fluid Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transmission fluid to use. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 7-11. Using a funnel, add fluid down the transmission dipstick tube only after checking the transmission fluid while it is hot. A cold check is used only as a reference. If the fluid level is low, add only enough of the proper fluid to bring the level up to the HOT area for a hot check. It does not take much fluid, generally less than one pint (0.5 L). Do not overfill. Notice: Use of the incorrect automatic transmission fluid may damage the vehicle, and the damages may not be covered by the vehicle's warranty. Always use the automatic transmission fluid listed in Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 7-11. Automatic Transmission Fluid (6-Speed Transmission) When to Check and Change Automatic Transmission Fluid It is usually not necessary to check the transmission fluid level. The only reason for fluid loss is a transmission leak or overheating the transmission. If a small leak is suspected, use the following procedures to check the fluid level. However, if there is a large leak, then it may be necessary to have the vehicle towed to a dealer/retailer service department and have it repaired before driving the vehicle further. Change the fluid and filter at the intervals listed in Scheduled Maintenance on page 7-3, and be sure to use the transmission fluid listed in Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 7-11. • After adding fluid, recheck the fluid level as described under "How to Check Automatic Transmission Fluid," earlier in this section. How to Check Automatic Transmission Fluid Because this operation can be difficult, it is recommended to have this check done at the dealer/retailer service department, which can monitor the transmission temperature. The transmission fluid level increases with temperature. To obtain a highly accurate fluid level check, the transmission temperature must be measured. 6-23 • When the correct fluid level is obtained, push the dipstick back in all the way; then flip the handle down to lock the dipstick in place.