2004 GMC Safari checking trans fluid

JUSTINF89

MEMBER
2004 GMC SAFARI
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
172,000 MILES

When checking the fluid, I noticed in the manual that after you run through the gears, to check it at least three minutes after idling. This is listed in order, after you run through the gears. I've just been doing PRNDNRP then checking it right away. Is this idling for three minutes vital before checking? Thanks a lot.

5 Replies

BLUELIGHTNIN6

MECHANIC
16,542 POSTS

Yes it is, idling lets the fluid warm up which is how it is when driving, warmer fluid is thinner and takes more to fill it up.

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Sunday, April 11th, 2010 AT 9:16 PM

JUSTINF89

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22 POSTS

I don't think I explained it right. In the manual that came with the van, it says step 1, drive atleast 15 miles to let fluid warm up, step 2, run through gears and end up in park, step three, wait at least three minutes before checking fluid. I thought that last part was a little weird.

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Wednesday, April 14th, 2010 AT 5:31 PM

BLUELIGHTNIN6

MECHANIC
16,542 POSTS

That just gives the fluid time to settle (drain) back down and level out to its proper position to be checked.

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Wednesday, April 14th, 2010 AT 6:53 PM

JUSTINF89

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22 POSTS

Ill bet I have too much in it then because I made a point to check it as quick as possible after running through the gears. Is it like this on all vehicles? I have never seen this before. Thanks.

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Wednesday, April 14th, 2010 AT 7:45 PM

BLUELIGHTNIN6

MECHANIC
16,542 POSTS

Never heard of driving 15 miles but on most, yes you do need to let it idle and warm up then let the fluid settle back down. This lets it get thin like it is during normal operation at the same time it lets it settle down so you get an accurate level reading.