How to change Transmission Fluid Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2019 Fill and Drain Plugs Location

In this video, I show you the exact location of the fill, drain, and fluid level check plugs, along with the full replacement process for changing the transmission fluid on a 2011-2019 Chevrolet Cruze. Whether your car is equipped with the 6-speed automatic (6T40) or the 6-speed manual transmission, knowing exactly where these plugs sit and how to correctly verify the fluid level is an essential part of proper drivetrain maintenance, saving you time and preventing you from overfilling or underfilling the unit.

Common symptoms that your transmission fluid needs to be changed include:

• Noticeable hesitation, harsh shifting, or slipping between gears when the transmission is cold or under heavy load.
• Erratic shift timing, or a sluggish response when accelerating from a complete stop.
• Increased mechanical noise, a faint whining sound from the transmission case, or a burnt odor when checking the fluid condition, indicating that the fluid has broken down and lost its protective properties.

Safety First: Transmission fluid expands significantly as it heats up, and checking or changing it often requires working close to hot exhaust pipes and cooling lines. Never attempt to loosen the drain or check plugs until you ensure the vehicle is safely and perfectly level on heavy-duty jack stands—never rely on a hydraulic jack alone. Wear durable, heat-resistant gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from hot fluid splashes, keep a large drain pan handy to catch escaping oil, and stay fully focused and attentive throughout the entire process.

As an experienced mechanic with a deep background in professional automotive repair and diagnostics, I am here to help you keep your drivetrain running smooth. If you run into any issues finding the level check plug on the side of the case, or have questions about using the correct factory-specified fluid (like Dexron VI for automatics), just leave a comment below and I will help you out!