Changing the Transmission Fluid

Changing the transmission, or transaxle if we're getting technical here, is a much easier to do on a 99 than it is a 900. It's essentially like changing the oil on your engine. Unlike the 900, which requires removal of the rear differential cover to drain the fluid, the 99's gearbox has its own drain plug. Yes, it's that simple. 

What you'll need:

• 3/8 drive extension
• Breaker bar or ratchet
• 3 quarts - 10W-30 conventional motor oil
• Funnel and hose

Locate the drain plug towards the rear of the engine. It should be right behind the belly pan. Use your 3.8 drive extension to loosen the drain plug with either a ratchet or breaker bar, depending how tight the plug is.

Drain the gearbox, and then plug it back up. 

Locate the transmission dipstick. It should be opposite the engine oil dipstick. Remove it, and use a funnel with a tube attached to it to fill the gearbox via the dipstick shaft with 3 quarts of conventional 10W-30 motor oil. Using full-synthetic oil is bad for the gear synchros. Check for any leaks, and check the tightness of your drain plug, and ensure you put the dipstick back. And it's as simple as that!