2003 Honda Civic Owner's Manual - Page 216

Transmission Fluid 5. If the level is below the lower mark, add fluid into the filler hole to bring it to the upper mark (On CVT model, HOT side's upper mark). Always use Honda ATF-Z1 (Automatic Transmission Fluid). If it is not available, you may use a DEXRON III automatic transmission fluid as a temporary replacement. However, continued use can affect shift quality. Have the transmission flushed and refilled with Honda ATF-Z1 as soon as it is convenient. To thoroughly flush the transmission, the technician should drain and refill it with Honda ATF-Z1 (Automatic Transmission Fluid), then drive the vehicle a short distance. Do this three times. Then drain and refill the transmission a final time. 6. Insert the dipstick all the way back into the transmission securely as shown in the illustration. The transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid according to the time and distance recommendations in the maintenance schedule. DIPSTICK (CVT) UPPER MARK LOWER MARK On CVT model Remove the dipstick and check the fluid level. There are HOT side and COLD side on the dipstick. It should be between the upper and lower marks on the HOT side. Maintenance 215