Minor failed attempt in trying to change the car's first Transmission Fluid. I was able to loosen the fill plug, but it took a little muscle. The drain plug didn't want to budge. I didn't want to risk breaking anything, so I stopped. With the car being 5-6 years (2015) old, would a breaker bar help, or should I take it to a Honda dealership for the fluid change (mostly to get them to loosen everything for future self cvt fluid changes)?

Personal win, I put the car (safely!) on 4 jack stands for the first time!

 

I don't know much of anything about the Gen3s, but when I changed the automatic transmission fluid in my Gen2 GE8 (not a CVT), I was puzzled as to which bolt was the drain bolt. It sounds dumb, but there appeared to be several candidates and I was stumped. I asked here on FitFreak, received a clear answer and went on to a successful drain and fill. I mention this only so as to be sure you're wrenching on the proper bolt. Mine has a square inset to fit a 3/8" x 3/8" socket wrench handle. I think I used a breaker bar, but it didn't require much muscle to loosen. Torque spec is only 36 LB/FT.

Be sure too that you follow the procedure so that you refill with the proper quantity. My Gen2 is very specific, directing that the engine be run up to operating temperature and the fluid level checked only after the cooling fan starts and doing so quickly after shutting the engine off.

 

Thanks for the reply Alco! I think I'm 99% sure I was going after the right bolt, mine is also a 3/8" female bolt. I decided to concede and let the dealership take the first swing.

 

No shame in that GAMiniMiniVan. I've done the same as you with some work. Sometimes the DIY savings isn't worth the anxiety.

 

i had a heck of a time getting the drain plug loose on my 6MT GK5 as well.
Only after chatting with a neighbor was I given the idea to hook two wrenches together for the needed leverage.
Even after that I still couldn't get it to loosen, so I then lowered the car enough that I could put both feet on the frame of the car (while lying on my side on the ground).
Then it was like I was practically pull directly "up" to get it loose....words cannot explain my excitement when I finally got both plugs out!

OP, don't be surprised if the dealer over-tightens it once they've done the fluid change (meaning you'll have to go to them again if you want it changed at a later date).
Good luck!

 

Get a breaker bar best investment or a pipe for extension. Tried both and they work well.