1996 Pontiac Grand Prix Owner's Manual - Page 245

Because this operation can be a little difficult,you may choose to have this done atyour Pontiac dealership Service Department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick. Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transaxle fluid level if you have been driving: When outside temperatures are above 90°F (32" C). At high speed for quite a while. In heavy traffic -- especially in hot weather. 0 While pulling a trailer. To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal operating temperature, which is 180°F to 200°F (82°C to 93°C). Too much or too little fluid can damage your of transaxle, Too much can mean that some the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine parts or exhaust system parts, starting a fire. sure to Be get an accurate reading if you check your transaxle fluid. Get the vehicle warmedup by driving about 15 miles (24 km) when outside temperatures are above 50°F (10°C). If it's colder than 50°F (lO°C), you may have to drive longer.