How to Check the Transmission Fluid in a 2001 Corvette

by David Curtis

corvette image by Julianna Olah from Fotolia.com

The C5 model of the popular Corvette was produced from 1997 to 2004. The C5 does not have a dipstick to check the transmission fluid. The fluid level must be checked by raising the car and accessing the fill plug next to the transmission pan. The car must be raised sufficient to safely access the area. The transmission fluid and filters should be changed every 100,000 miles unless the car is operated in mountainous areas or driven under extreme conditions, where it is recommended to do so at 50,000 mile intervals.

Step 1

Raise the car with a hydraulic jack and place the car on jack stands for safety. The car must be in a level position. Refer to the owner's manual to find the correct jack points.

Step 2

Start the car and press the gauges button on the Drivers Information Center (DIC) until the transmission temperature is displayed. The DIC buttons are located on the right side of the driver's console and the display is just above the steering column.

Step 3

Run the engine at idle until the transmission temperature reaches between 86 and 122 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 4

Press your foot on the brake and carefully shift into each gear for three or four seconds and return the lever back into the park position. Set the parking brake.

Step 5

Place a container under the transmission pan near the fill plug. Carefully get under the car while the engine is still running and remove the fill plug with an open end or socket wrench. Your transmission is full if the fluid drips slightly out of the bottom of the opening of the fill hole.