Automatic Transmission Fluid Change

[Domie D]

I just purchased a used 2003 Aerio AWD SX with 10400 miles on it. So far I have changed the the transfer case oil, rear differential, backflushed cooling system and replaced antifreeze, changed plugs, air cleaner and motor oil and filter, pcv and air cleaner.

Getting ready to drain and replace the ATF. It seems to look a little dark and I bet it is the original fluid. It looks to me like the ATF drain plug needs to be removed with a 10mm hex key bit. I just want to make sure that this is the plug to drain the tranny and wanted some confirmation.

I used to have a Sidekick and the tranny plug was a metric bolt, and did all this maintenence before with success.

Thanks!

[greg409]

You've probably already changed it, but if not, I'd guess the 10mm hex IS your drain plug as my '03 fwd "s" is.

[Domie D]

Sorry for the late post, yes I did give it a try and change it, with no problems. The only thing is only 3.5 qts drained out and that is all I refilled it with. Man, it was black like dirty motor oil. Now the ATF is clean on the dipstick and at the proper level.