Camaro and Firebird: How to Change Manual Transmission Fluid
Replacing the transmission fluid is a great piece of maintenance to ensure your Camaro or Firebird's transmission lives for a long time. Learn how to replace it here.
This article applies to the Camaro and Firebird (1990-2015).
The transmission fluid on the Camaro or Firebird has been known to not need changing for a long time. However, if you pass the 100,000 miles mark, it may be wise to replace it. Replacing the transmission fluid is a great investment, as it protects your transmission, which costs a lot of money. The process isn't the easiest, but it's doable. You will need to remove the transmission's oil pan to drain the old fluid. If you feel you're up to the task, read on to learn how to replace the transmission fluid in your Camaro or Firebird.
Materials Needed
- Drain pan
- Jack and four jack stands
- Socket
- Torque wrench
- Funnel
- Transmission fluid
Step 1 – Raise your car
For this procedure, you will need your car to be leveled, which means you have to raise both the front and the rear. Raise the front, secure it with two jack stands, then raise the rear and secure it with two jack stands.
Step 2 – Drain transmission fluid
Remove the front bolts of your transmission's oil pan, and make sure your drain pan is underneath it. Turn the bolts counter-clockwise, four turns at a time. Pull the front down to drain the fluid. When the fluid is almost drained, remove the rear bolts, then clean the pan thoroughly. Install the pan back in place, and torque the bolts to nine feet-pounds.
Step 3 – Refill transmission fluid
Remove your transmission's dipstick under the hood, and insert a funnel in its place. Refill with transmission fluid, then check the dipstick. Start the car and let it run for 10 minutes, then check the transmission's dipstick again. Top off the fluid if you need to.
Related Discussions
- Changing Transmission Fluid - LS1Tech.com
- Transmission Fluid Intervals - LS1Tech.com
- Fluid Change - LS1Tech.com
