How to change transmission fluid Honda Fit 1.5L 2008-2013

Transmission Fluid Service Overview

Changing the automatic transmission fluid (ATF) on a 2008–2013 Honda Fit is a straightforward maintenance task that is essential for long-term reliability. Unlike many vehicles that have a complex filter, this transmission is designed for a simple “drain and fill” procedure.

Preparation and Tools

• Fluid: You will need approximately 2.5 to 3 liters of Genuine Honda ATF-DW1. Do not use generic multi-vehicle transmission fluids, as they can cause clutch shudder.
• Tools: A 3/8-inch drive ratchet (which fits directly into the square hole of the drain plug), a clean drain pan, a long-neck funnel, and a new aluminum crush washer for the drain plug.

The Drain and Fill Procedure

1. Warm and Drain

• Take the car for a short 5–10 minute drive to get the fluid warm (this helps it flow out faster).
• Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and safely lift the front of the vehicle using jack stands.
• Locate the square-drive drain plug on the bottom of the transmission case (driver’s side). Place your drain pan underneath.
• Use your 3/8-inch ratchet to loosen the plug. Be prepared, as the fluid will come out quickly.
• Important: Once drained, clean the magnetic tip of the drain plug of any metallic sludge and install the new aluminum crush washer. Reinstall the plug and tighten it to 36 lb-ft (or until snug, ensuring you don’t over-tighten and strip the aluminum threads).

2. Refill

• Locate the transmission dipstick (the bright yellow loop handle) on the driver’s side of the engine bay, reaching down into the engine/transmission area.
• Remove the dipstick and insert your clean, long-neck funnel into the hole.
• Slowly pour in approximately 2.5 liters of fresh Honda ATF-DW1.

3. Verification

• Start the engine and shift through all gears (P, R, N, D, S) while holding the brake pedal firmly.
• Turn the engine off and check the fluid level using the dipstick (ensure the car is level). The fluid should be between the MIN and MAX holes. Add small amounts if necessary.

Safety Measures

• Heat: The transmission and exhaust components will be very hot. Allow the vehicle to cool slightly before working to avoid burns.
• Support: Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Always use properly rated jack stands on solid frame points.
• Hygiene: ATF can be a skin irritant; wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly after handling.

Expert Assistance

If you notice that your old fluid is pitch black or smells intensely burnt, you may have internal clutch wear. In such cases, a simple fluid change might not resolve shifting issues. If you encounter any resistance when removing the drain plug or have questions about resetting the transmission’s “learning” parameters after the service, feel free to ask!