Existing relevant threads...

• Transmission fluid change interval
• DIY Transmission fluid change.

 

Subscribed, let me know if I can help with future thread edits or anything else.

 

• infrared temperature gun or method to monitor transmission temperature fluid

Do you have a SGII @DudeCS? I'd be curious to know the delta between running a thermometer and what the SGII reads. I'll be looking at that when I get around to this service, but that is likely to be a while given how little I drive (currently).

 

No, I do not have SGII. I already have an infrared thermometer gun to check the transmission case per other internet suggestions. It may take a little longer for the case to reach temperature? I will have to test the IR gun before doing the service. The temperature is cold on the east coast for the next couple of days, so I'm on-hold for now.

 

Photos of the transmission screw plugs. As @14v6 had pointed out and per torque specifications, the screw plugs are to be replaced (one-time use). They have an embedded silicone gasket with an 8mm hex key female head. It is possible to replace only two of the three screw plugs per the Honda procedure, if fluid is fill via the check plug hole and not remove the fill plug.

ATF fluid requirement is "Honda ATF-TYPE 3.x". Current iteration is "Honda ATF-TYPE 3.1".

 

As with all fluid service procedures Always remove/loosen the "fill plug" first.
If you don't know that the "fill plug" will come out and ultimately you can't get it out, you can not refill the cavity.

 

As with all fluid service procedures Always remove the "fill plug" first.
If you don't know that the "fill plug" will come out and ultimately you can't get it out, you can not refill the cavity.

For reasons best known to Honda, the 9-Speed transmission ATF change directives in the service manual referenced only two of the three plugs on the transmission case, the Level Check Plug and the Drain Plug, the Fill Plug is not mentioned at all. The instruction for filling says after draining the ATF and replacing the Drain Plug with a new one, use the Level Check Plug hole to refill the transmission with the recommended ATF. So as far as the Honda procedure is concerned, the "Fill Plug" does not come in play during the ATF change.

 

CONFIRMED... Below is a summary of the VSA Maintenance Mode sequence in table form from the factory instructions (attached below). Each sequence (A through C) has 6 or 7 steps.

• To Initiate VSA Maintenance Mode: vehicle ON and complete the sequence below within 30
• To Exit VSA Maintenance Mode: vehicle OFF or VSA OFF pressed

Step \ Sequence	1) Parking Brake	2) Brake Pedal	3) VSA OFF Switch	4) VSA OFF Indicator	5) VSA OFF Switch	6) VSA OFF Indicator	7) VSA Indicator
A	OFF	ON	hold	ON	release & hold	OFF
B	ON	OFF	hold	ON	release & hold	OFF
C	ON	ON	hold	ON	release & hold	FLASHING	ON

"VSA OFF Switch" is the lower right button...

"VSA OFF Indicator" is the lower left dash light while the "VSA Indicator" is off (not visible to the left)...

"VSA Indicator" is the leftmost dash light and "VSA OFF Indicator" adjacent to the right. After Sequence C, "VSA OFF Indicator" will be flashing if VSA Maintenance Mode is successful...

 

I have confirmed and updated the instructions for VSA Maintenance Mode. The procedure outlined in a table format helps to clarify the instructions for me and I am able to do it quickly. Added photos too. The procedure basically is to set the parking brake and brake pedal in the correct state, depressing and holding the VSA OFF switch twice, while checking for the resultant indicator lights.

VSA Maintenance Mode is necessary if running the transmission through the gears (1st through 4th) while the wheels are in the air (on jack stands or a lift). The alternative (like a "spill and fill") is to drive the vehicle on the road to exercise the gears, get the transmission to the required temperature range and check/adjust the fluid level as needed?

 

If you go through all of this and end up adding 3.5 to 3.75 quarts, I'm going to take my chances on a spill and fill when the time comes. Thanks for the detailed posts.

 

If you do a "spill and fill", suggest reusing an old plug for the level check initially upon re-filling. Do a final level check and replaced with a new check plug.

 

Back up information for the three screw plugs on the transmission (drain, level check, fill). Here is a photo of a pair of old/used screw plugs vs new. The two on the left are used with the silicone seals being deformed. The screw plug on the right (slightly out of focus) is new with the silicone seal being flat. Recommend using new plugs for the drain and level check.

 

The screw plugs on Amazon are gone, I guess you got them.

 

CASE STUDY... How much ATF fluid is too much? When I drained the ATF, there was about 5 quarts vs the recommended 3.5 quarts for a fluid change.

I had an ATF cooler installed post-purchase. The Honda tech had a difficult time with the installation and I was also charged for two quarts of ATF. Obviously, the ATF fluid level was not properly checked, despite my comment to the service advisor at the time. Fortunately, nothing bad has happened to the transmission. I did not get an accurate measurement of the ATF that was drained because my jug leaked and left a mess for me to clean up.

Bottom line is that nothing bad will happen if the ATF is overfilled slightly.

 

CASE STUDY... How much ATF fluid is too much? When I drained the ATF, there was about 5 quarts vs the recommended 3.5 quarts for a fluid change.

With almost 50% extra fluid in the transmission the dealer tech certainly did not check the ATF level after installing the ATF cooler.

 

I have completed my first ATF change and the initial post has been updated.

 

Thank you for this post, as always you have given anyone interested a real world guide to get another important service done without drama.

 

Another comment and will update to the instructions. After the ATF change, the delay between gear selection (park, reverse, drive) is less/better. Optional, reset the transmission control module to re-learn.

To reset the transmission control module:

1. start with the vehicle OFF
2. press START twice to enable ACCESSORY mode (without starting the vehicle)
3. depress and hold accelerator/gas pedal
4. wait for the "Check Engine Light" indicator to turn OFF (approximately 20 to 30 seconds)
5. release accelerator/gas pedal and press START to turn the vehicle OFF

 

Please what is the implication of resetting the TCM to re-learn? The reset makes it learn your driving pattern anew, it downloads data from Honda or it just returns to factory setting?

 

Thanks @DudeCS for sharing your experience and supplying instructions. If it's true that the dealer didn't check your fluid level with the installation of the trans cooler, I always had a concern that the procedure wouldn't be followed. I'm going to assume that if DIY with the spill and fill route, it's important to not spill and measure what comes out and add slightly more.

 

Yes for DIY, best to add slightly more better than to be too low. The fluid was more than dribbling when I checked. The recommended 3.5 quarts is a good reference point.

If I am able to DIY, I do it for the learning experience, the challenge and hopefully being done correctly. It was great when Honda factory maintenance manuals (paperback form) could be purchased vs today's subscription model.

 

so if doing a change, do you have to run the car through it’s gears or just put it in drive and hold the brake? Just curious. I just bought mine and usually drive 60k a year so it’ll be due sooner than I know

 

If you apply the brakes, the vehicle's computer will not allow you to upshift if the speed is too low for each gear. You have to run it through the gears, from 1st through 4th for 10 seconds each. Then, idle in Park while revving the engine RPM to 2,000+. The purpose is to send fluid up into the gears and load up the torque converter before checking the fluid level according to factory instructions. If you are on jack stands or lift (all 4 wheels in the air), VSA Maintenance Mode should be enable to allow for the transmission to be operated like this. Else, drive it on the road and exercise the transmission before checking the fluid level. There was a noticeable lag shifting between P-R-N-D before the fluid change. I am at 62K miles, but will definitely change it at a shorter interval for the next service. With an ATF change, you are replacing less than 50% of the total capacity for an AWD.

 

Thanks to everyone who's posted the steps and tips. This is the hardest transmission fluid change I've done on a Honda. No easy way to check the level and the hole to fill it is way down there. The transmission fluid smells terrible.

I was concerned about the level because I spilled a little when filling. After emptying my old fluid into a gallon container, I realized that my concern about the level is maybe more than that of the person in Alabama who added the fluid because there was over 4 qts of fluid that drained out. Doesn't seem like using the level fluid opening was easy for them either and they just skipped that step unless there is a reason to put that much in initially? Has anyone else had the same experience with over 4 qts draining?

I adjusted my filling and think I got 3.5. I drove it and it seemed good. I would like to use the level check but even turning the front wheel doesn't seem to give enough room to reach. I'm not putting it up and taking off the wheel. Having driven it overfilled for 3 years, I guess I shouldn't be too concerned.

My advice for anyone doing this is to have a funnel hose combo for the filling and to be prepared for the terrible smell. I often use a respirator when working with chemicals and wasn't concerned so I didn't have it out but the smell is horrible. Also, this stuff is green and not pink.

Also, with talk about the right to self repair in the tech industry, it's frustrating to see how difficult something like this is. I know Honda's engineers have their work cut out for them but it seems like the auto industry should put more thought into it. We on here are people who research how to maintain our cars but many out there don't maintain them properly and the industry's made it too difficult.

 

will DIY transmission fluid change void warranty?

 

I posed your same question to my local Honda Stealership (Bobby Rahal Honda) service department yesterday (12 Oct 2022).

While there I also inquired about the ability for them to upload my fluid changes into their databases for record keeping purposes and they flat out said... "No, we cannot update services performed outside of our dealership."

This same service manager did HIGHLY recommend keeping all of the receipts and a detailed record of all services for the vehicle which I normally do anyways.

But to answer your principal question no, it will not void your warranty.

One can DIY and still be covered for any warranty related issues but you have to be able to show proof of what services you have completed or its "on you".

I hope this helped answer your question.

 

Hi,

I have owned and maintained my own Honda fleet for over 10 years now, most are AWD models.

In order to completely change 100% of the transmission fluid and to ensure you get ALL of the old fluid out is to do it THREE times.

I usually buy a case and drain and fill 3 times and drive about 5 miles in between these changes.

It isn't like the motor, transmissions are a system and to correctly change it ALL you must do it multiple times.

I buy a case and tackle this job every 40k miles and hate doing it but it is what it is...

Thanks for all of the above helpful information as this is a new one for me, my previous models had a transmission dipstick.

Kenny Wise

 

Hi,

I have owned and maintained my own Honda fleet for over 10 years now, most are AWD models.

In order to completely change 100% of the transmission fluid and to ensure you get ALL of the old fluid out is to do it THREE times.

I usually buy a case and drain and fill 3 times and drive about 5 miles in between these changes.

It isn't like the motor, transmissions are a system and to correctly change it ALL you must do it multiple times.

I buy a case and tackle this job every 40k miles and hate doing it but it is what it is...

Thanks for all of the above helpful information as this is a new one for me, my previous models had a transmission dipstick.

Kenny Wise

I think your suggestion is for a completely different transmission.

 

Fx chip,

These transmissions don't have torque converters?

I know for a FACT most if not ALL torque converters hold at a minimum 1qt. of oil.

Every transmission I've overhauled had a torque converter on it with the exception of the CVT ones.

With all due respect I wholeheartedly disagree with you.

This is my 3rd AWD Honda and past practices have been to change the fluid 3 times to get it ALL out.

I've got well over 200,000 miles on previous AWD Honda's that I've owned and have followed the same technique for them (change the fluid 3 times).

I guess to each his own but for me I'm doing it 3 times.

If you have a mounted transmission cooler on your Passport or ANY other vehicle how would draining it from the pan get all of the old fluid out?

My research had shown that an ATF cooler will be factory installed on 2022 models with the Trailsport and Elite trims.

I dunno, you might want to reconsider your proper fluid changes methods.

I've been doing this for 30 years now...

 

Fx chip,

These transmissions don't have torque converters?

I know for a FACT most if not ALL torque converters hold at a minimum 1qt. of oil.

Every transmission I've overhauled had a torque converter on it with the exception of the CVT ones.

With all due respect I wholeheartedly disagree with you.

This is my 3rd AWD Honda and past practices have been to change the fluid 3 times to get it ALL out.

I've got well over 200,000 miles on previous AWD Honda's that I've owned and have followed the same technique for them (change the fluid 3 times).

I guess to each his own but for me I'm doing it 3 times.

If you have a mounted transmission cooler on your Passport or ANY other vehicle how would draining it from the pan get all of the old fluid out?

My research had shown that an ATF cooler will be factory installed on 2022 models with the Trailsport and Elite trims.

I dunno, you might want to reconsider your proper fluid changes methods.

I've been doing this for 30 years now...

Your contribution ignores two key points:

1. "AWD fleet for 10 years" is not the same thing as - same transmission for 10 years. Honda as used a variety of transmissions for the Passport, Pilot, Ridgeline and CR-V in the last 10 years so what you have been doing for 10 years is only important if those transmission you claim familiarity with are identical to the 9 speed in the present Passport - which I doubt - the 2019-2022 Passport transmission does not have a fluid level dip stick.

2. The manufacturer's suggested service method and interval of any car component is always more important than any personal anecdote and in this case Honda did not require that the Passport's transmission should be essentially flushed by replacing the transmission fluid every 5 miles.

 

Sounds good, I'll be doing it my way. A transmission is a transmission irregardless of the type.

I still don't know how you're going to get the fluid captured inside the torque converter and transmission cooler changed without doing an actual "flush".

Everyone has their own opinions and method, I have mine and will not deviate from it.

 

I am a veteran and also get a discount for purchasing the oil per case at the Stealership.

 

I know, I was shocked also! I was actually successful in negotiating the sale price down as a result.

 

I'm kinda' irritated that Honda didn't list the total capacity in the manual, just the "Change" capacity. My other Honda manuals have both.

Looking around trying to find the total capacity is hit or miss. Haven't been able to find it yet. I've found other ZF9-48 applications with total capacity at over 6QTs, which is a number that sounds reasonable. There's going to be quite a bit of non-changed fluid in the system on a normal drain and fill.

Honda's liquid platinum ATF3.1 is some crazy-price fluid. Looked back at my last case of ATF-DW and it was $65 ($95 shipped) for 12qts. Tad more than a third of the price I paid per quart from Bernardi ($25.76/qt) before shipping!

 

@Janizary ... Inspired me to find the ATF capacity. This is for the Honda Pilot and I believe correct for the Passport... up to 7.9 quarts.

 

@Janizary ... Inspired me to find the ATF capacity. This is for the Honda Pilot and I believe correct for the Passport... up to 7.9 quarts.

Excellent!

 

Yep, that's why I felt it was VERY important to conduct 3 oil changes to get ALL of it out but apparently that advice didn't go over too well.

All i know is that im not changing the way I do my transmission oil changes.

Doing it 3 times is the ONLY way you'll get ALL of the old fluid out of the entire system and yes IT IS A SYSTEM!

The torque converter easily holds 1qt.

 

I decided to give an update on my 30,000 transmission service.

The Genuine Honda transmission fluid (oil) has a clear like appearance with a slight hint of green in it.

The oil that I drained from my transmission was absolutely filthy!

It was very dark in color, almost black in appearance.

After adding exactly 3.5 qts it started to weep out of the fill plug hole on the side of the transmission.

This morning I took the vehicle out for a short 5 mile drive to heat up the transmission fluid and conducted a subsequent transmission oil change.

It wasn't as black as the previous change was but you can CLEARLY see it was much darker in color.

I'm so glad I decided to do this 3 times as it does have a 7qt capacity as @Janizary stated above.

One more after this one and I'll be completely satisfied with this 30,000 mile transmission service being done.

Kenny Wise

 

I think being that the vehicle will only need this done a handful of times in its life with me, I will just pony up and have the stealership do it.