2008 Honda Element Owner's Manual - Page 203

Main Menu Table Of Contents Transmission Fluid Manual Transmission Fluid Use only Honda Genuine ATF-Z1 (Automatic Transmission Fluid). Do not mix with other transmission fluids. Using transmission fluid other than Honda Genuine ATF-Z1 may cause deterioration in transmission operation and durability, and could result in damage to the transmission. Damage resulting f rom the use of transmission f luid other than Honda Genuine ATF-Z1 is not covered by the Honda new vehicle warranty. 6. Insert the dipstick all the way back into the transmission securely as shown in the illustration. If you are not sure how to add fluid, contact your dealer. WASHER FILLER BOLT Put a new washer on the filler bolt, then reinstall the filler bolt and tighten it securely. If Honda MTF is not available, you may use an SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 viscosity motor oil with the API Certification seal that says ''FOR GASOLINE ENGINES'' as a temporary replacement. However, motor oil does not contain the proper additives, and continued use can cause stiffer shifting. Replace as soon as it is convenient. The transmission should be drained and refilled with new fluid according to the time and distance recommendations in the maintenance schedule. If you are not sure how to check and add fluid, contact your dealer. Correct Level Maintenance Check the fluid level with the transmission at normal operating temperature and the vehicle on level ground. Remove the transmission filler bolt, and carefully feel inside the bolt hole with your finger. The fluid level should be up to the edge of the bolt hole. If it is not, add Honda Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) until it starts to run out of the hole. 199 2008 Element