Checking transmission fluid level - '99 Camry

[Tom023]

I purchased a used 99 Camry V6 auto and just finished changing the transmission fluid and screen. Looking through the owner's manual no where does is state the proper way to check the transmission fluid level. The dealer said to check it hot, running in park. Other sources say check it hot, engine off and give it time for the fluid to drain back into the pan. I've done both and the difference in level is significant. What is the correct way?

[Mister_Perkins]

After filling the transmission I always shut the car off so the fluid can drain into the transmission. Re-start and re-check.

There should be two indicators to check the fluid, cold and hot. Both you need to check with the vehicle running.


What happens is the fluid covers the fill tube where the dipstick slides in and you will get a false reading unless its completely drained. If you overfilled your trans. Drain a little into a clean catch pan. If you take too much out, use cheese cloth and drain it back into your ATF bottle and re-use.

I know my 92-96 camry drain / refill is like 2.6 quarts or something like that for 5sfe

[ty**20]

Originally Posted by Mister_Perkins

After filling the transmission I always shut the car off so the fluid can drain into the transmission. Re-start and re-check.

There should be two indicators to check the fluid, cold and hot. Both you need to check with the vehicle running.


What happens is the fluid covers the fill tube where the dipstick slides in and you will get a false reading unless its completely drained. If you overfilled your trans. Drain a little into a clean catch pan. If you take too much out, use cheese cloth and drain it back into your ATF bottle and re-use.

I know my 92-96 camry drain / refill is like 2.6 quarts or something like that for 5sfe

for the transmission in V6's, after engine is hot and running, where would the correct level be? middle of cold and hot indicators? above, below?

[Mister_Perkins]

Should be right at hot or slightly below. Shouldn't be above. Thats too much

[ty**20]

Originally Posted by Mister_Perkins

Should be right at hot or slightly below. Shouldn't be above. Thats too much

if happens to be too much. what will be the best way to drain some out. out through the oil cooler return line or the traditional drain plug? worrying about the hot fluid glushing out causing burns.

[Mister_Perkins]

It would probably be easier to drain it out of the oil cooler line. Just make sure to wear gloves or let it cool down completely and drain it out regularly. Only drain a little at a time. Each time letting the fluid settle and re-check until your at the proper level.

[JohnGD]

Or use a MityVac to vacuum out 4oz at a time through the dipstick tube. A thin, longer PVC hose needed. About 20 cents / foot at Lowes. Can't remember if 5/32 ID hose might work or not.

Originally Posted by ty**20

if happens to be too much. what will be the best way to drain some out. out through the oil cooler return line or the traditional drain plug? worrying about the hot fluid glushing out causing burns.