Black transmission fluid?

Hi,

If the fluid is burnt and black, it may be too late. However, it certainly wouldn't hurt to try.

I'm not familiar with the specific product you mentioned. What specifically does it indicate to fix?

Let me know.

Joe

I have seen good results with the "Lucas transmission fix" but if the fluid is black, I would change it out, also I have seen a bad input shaft speed sensor cause the shifting issues. We should run the codes to see if any are stored, this guide can help:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

Here is a generic guide to help you step by step with instructions to service the transmission in the diagrams below to show you how on your car.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-service-an-automatic-transmission

SERVICE ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURE

Automatic transaxle fluid

INSPECTION
1. Drive the vehicle until the fluid reaches normal operating temperature 70 - 80°C (158 - 176°F).
2. Place the vehicle on a level surface.
3. Move the selector lever through all gear position. This will fill the torque converter and the hydraulic system with fluid and move the selector lever to the "N" (Neutral) or "P" (Park) position.
4. Before removing the oil level gauge, wipe all contaminants from around the oil level gauge. Then take out the oil level gauge and check the condition of the fluid.

NOTE:
If the fluid smells as if it is burning, it means that the fluid has been contaminated by fine particles from the bushes and friction materials, a transaxle overhaul may be necessary.

5. Check that the fluid level is at the HOT mark on the oil level gauge. If the fluid level is low, add automatic transaxle fluid until the level reaches the "HOT" mark.

Auto transaxle fluid:
DIAMOND ATF SP-III, SK ATF SP-III
Quantity : 7.8l (8.2 US qt, 6.9 Imp.qt)

NOTE:
Low fluid level can cause a variety of a abnormal conditions because it allows the pump to take in air along with fluid. Air trapped in the hydraulic system forms bubbles, which are compressable. Therefore, pressures will be erratic, causing delayed shifting ,slipping clutches and brakes, etc. Improper filling can also raise fluid level too high. When the transaxle has too much fluid, gears churn up foam and cause the same conditions which occur with low fluid level, resulting in accelerated deterioration of automatic transaxle fluid. In either case, air bubbles can cause overheating, and fluid oxidation, which can interfere with normal valve, clutch, and brake operation. Foaming can also result in fluid escaping from the transaxle vent where it may be mistaken for a leak.

6. Insert the oil level gauge securely.

NOTE:
When new, automatic transmission fluid should be red. The red dye is added so the assembly plant can identify it as transmission fluid and distinguish it from engine oil or antifreeze. The red dye, which is not an indicator of fluid quality, is not permanent. As the vehicle is driven the transmission fluid will begin to look darker. The color may eventually appear light brown.

REPLACEMENT
If you have a fluid changer, use this changer to replace the fluid. If you do not, replace it using the following procedure.
1. Disconnect the hose, which connects the transmission and the oil cooler which is within the radiator only in 2.0L engine(2.7L-the oil cooler is separated).
2. Start the engine and let the fluid drain out.

Running conditions : "N" range with engine idling.

CAUTION:
The engine should be stopped within one minute after it is started. If the fluid has all drained out before then, the engine should be stopped at that point.

3. Remove the drain plug from the bottom of the transmission case to drain the fluid.
4. Install the drain plug with a new gasket, and tighten it to the specified torque.

TORQUE :
40 - 50Nm (400 - 500 kgf.cm, 29 - 36 lb-ft)

5. Pour the new fluid in through the oil filler tube.

CAUTION:
Stop pouring if the full volume of fluid cannot be poured in.

6. Repeat the procedure in step (2).

NOTE:
Check the old fluid for contamination. If it has been contaminated, repeat the steps (5) and (6).

7. Pour the new fluid in through the oil filler tube.
8. Reconnect the hose, which was disconnected in step (1) above, and firmly replace the oil level gauge.(In case of this "replace", this means after wiping off any dirt around the oil level gauge, insert it into the filler tube.)
9. Start the engine and run it at idle for 1 - 2 minutes.
10. Move the select lever through all positions, and then move it to the "N" position.
11. Drive the vehicle until the fluid temperature rises to the normal temperature [70 - 80°C (158 - 176°F)], and then check the fluid level again. The fluid level must be at the HOT mark.
12. Firmly insert the oil level gauge into the oil filler tube.

Automatic Transaxle Fluid Type

Type .................... Genuine Diamond ATF SP-III or SK ATF SP-III

Here is the location of the input shaft speed sensor, if this sensor is bad it may not give a code for the sensor FYI. Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.