How to Check Transmission Fluid Levels in a 2008 Saturn Aura XE 3.5 Engine

Park the vehicle on a level surface and set the parking brake. Lift the front of the vehicle into the air with a floor jack and place two jack stands under the front sub-frame rails. Lower the front of the vehicle until it rests securely on the jack stands. Lift the rear of the vehicle into the air and place the remaining two jack stands under the rear suspension. Lower the rear of the vehicle until it rests securely on the jack stands; the vehicle should sit completely level to accurately check the transmission fluid. Shake the vehicle to make sure it is safe to work under.

Lay down under the vehicle and position your self below the engine and transmission mating area. Remove and under engine splash shield, if equipped. Look to the left of the bottom most transmission to engine mounting bolt to locate the transmission fill plug.

Start the engine and allow it to reach operating temperature, the transmission fluid must reach a minimum of 104 degrees to accurately check the fluid level. Shit the transmission through each gear from park to low range and back, pausing for 3 seconds in each position. Position yourself under the vehicle with the engine running and locate the fill plug again. Place a drain pan under the transmission and remove the transmission fill plug with a socket and ratchet.

Inspect the transmission fluid color by sticking your finger or a small screwdriver into the fill plug hole and removing it. If the transmission is a dark brown color, milky or smells burnt the transmission fluid and filter should be changed. If the transmission fluid level is not at the base of the transmission fill plug hole, you will need to add transmission fluid.

Place a transmission funnel into the fill plug hole and slowly add Dexron-VI automatic transmission fluid in half quart increments until fluid begins to pour from the fill hole. This step is only necessary, if the transmission fluid checks low.

Clean the threads of the fill plug with a wire brush and apply a small amount of thread sealer to the threads of the fill plug. Install the fill plug hand tight, one the fluid has finished running from the fill plug hole. Tighten the fill plug to 9 foot-pounds with a torque wrench. Remove the drain pan and store the transmission fluid in a safe place until it can be disposed of properly. Shut of the engine and remove the ignition key.

Lift the front of the vehicle off the jack stands with a floor jack and remove the jack stands from under the front of the vehicle. Lower the front of the vehicle to the ground. Lift the rear of the vehicle off the jack stands and remove the jack stands. Lower the rear of the vehicle to the ground.