LS1TECH - Camaro and Firebird Forum Discussion

Camaro and Firebird: How to Check and Change Automatic Transmission Fluid

Replacing the transmission fluid in your Camaro or Firebird is a great way to ensure your transmission operates in ideal conditions.

By Bassem Girgis - March 3, 2016

This article applies to the Camaro and Firebird (1990-2015).

Even though the transmission fluid doesn't need to be replaced as often as other fluids in the Camaro or Firebird, replacing it is a great investment. The transmission is by far one of the most expensive parts on your vehicle, and depending on your driving style, you could burn its fluid a lot faster than usual. Replacing the fluid on your transmission is an easy process that can be done in a matter of an hour or two, and your car will sure thank you later. Read on to learn how to replace the automatic transmission fluid in your Camaro or Firebird.

Materials Needed

  • Jack and four jack stands
  • Drain pan
  • Socket
  • Funnel
  • Transmission pan gasket
  • Transmission fluid

Step 1 – Raise the car

Use your jack to raise the car and secure it with jack stands. You will need to keep it leveled, so raise the front, secure it with jack stands, then raise the rear, and secure it with two other jack stands.

Raise and secure the car on four jack stands.
Figure 1. Raise and secure the car on four jack stands.

Step 2 – Drain transmission fluid

Locate the transmission's pan, then place your drain pan underneath its front. Remove the front bolts holding the pan in place. Turn the bolts counter-clockwise, two turns at a time so you can remove them evenly. Pull down on the front of the pan, and allow the fluid to drain. When the fluid is almost completely drained, remove the rear bolts, then remove the pan. Clean the pan really well before installing it back on.

Remove transmission pan
Figure 2. Remove transmission pan.

Step 3 – Install gasket on transmission pan

Scrape the old gasket from the pan and the transmission, then install the new gasket onto the pan. Align the pan in place, then tighten the bolts and torque them to 0 foot pounds.

Install gasket on transmission pan
Figure 3. Install gasket on transmission pan.

Step 4 – Refill transmission fluid

Remove the transmission's dipstick from under the hood, then use your funnel to fill the transmission with fluid. Check the dipstick, then start the car and let it run for 10 minutes, then recheck the transmission's dipstick. Top it off if you need to.

Refill transmission fluid
Figure 4. Refill transmission fluid.

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