2004 Pontiac GTO Owner's Manual - Page 213

Manual Transmission Fluid When to Check A good time to have it checked is when the engine oil is changed. However, the fluid in your manual transmission doesn't require changing. Check the fluid level only when your engine is off, the vehicle is parked on a level place and the transmission is cool enough for you to rest your fingers on the transmission case. Then, follow these steps: 1. Remove the reverse light switch. 2. Check that the lubricant level is up to the bottom of the switch hole. 3. If the fluid level is good, install the switch 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 dealership service department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading. Notice: Too much or too little fluid can damage your transmission. Too much can mean that some of the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine part or exhaust system parts, starting a fire. Too little fluid could cause the transmission to overheat. Be sure to get an accurate reading if you check your transmission fluid. 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 on page 6-13. 1. Remove the reverse light switch. 2. Add fluid at the switch hole. Add only enough fluid to bring the fluid level up to the bottom of the switch hole. 3. Install the reverse light switch. Be sure the switch is fully seated. 5-23