2003 Pontiac Vibe Owner's Manual - Page 273

Manual Transaxle Fluid When to Check A good time to have it checked is when the engine oil is changed. However, the fluid in your manual transaxle doesn't require changing. Check the fluid level only when your engine is off, the vehicle is parked on a level place and the transaxle is cool enough for you to rest your fingers on the transaxle case. Then, follow these steps: 1. Remove the filler plug. 2. Check that the lubricant level is up to the bottom of the filler plug hole. 3. If the fluid level is good, install the plug and be sure it is fully seated. If the fluid level is low, add more fluid as described in the next steps. How to Check Because this operation can be difficult, you may choose to have this done at your Pontiac dealership service department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading. How to Add Fluid Here's how to add fluid. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of fluid to use. See "Recommended Fluids and Lubricants" in the Index. 1. Remove the filler plug. 2. Add fluid at the filler plug hole. Add only enough fluid to bring the fluid level up to the bottom of the filler plug hole. 3. Install the filler plug. Be sure the plug is fully seated. NOTICE: Too much or too little fluid can damage your transaxle. Too much can mean that some of the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine parts or exhaust system parts, starting a fire. Too little fluid could cause the transaxle to overheat. Be sure to get an accurate reading if you check your transaxle fluid. 6-28