2009 Honda Element Owner's Manual - Page 262

Main Menu Table Of Contents Transmission Fluid, Rear Differential Fluid, Brake and Clutch Fluid 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 maintenance minder (see page 243). If you are not sure how to check and add fluid, contact your dealer. Rear Differential Fluid 4WD models only The rear differential should be drained and refilled with new fluid according to the time and distance recommendations shown on the maintenance minder display. Have your dealer replace the rear differential fluid. Use Honda Dual Pump Fluid II only. Do not use automatic transmission fluid (ATF). Brake and Clutch Fluid Check the fluid level in the reservoirs monthly. There are up to two reservoirs, depending on the model. They are: ● Brake fluid reservoir (all models) Clutch fluid reservoir (manual transmission only) ● Replace the brake fluid according to the time recommendation in the maintenance minder schedule. Always use Honda Heavy Duty Brake Fluid DOT 3. If it is not available, you should use only DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid, from a sealed container, as a temporary replacement. 258 2009 Element