I've searched and found the process of changing the transmission fluid, but there's a couple things that are nagging me. Firstly, I know I need to drain and fill to replace the fluid, but what I'm not sure is does it take ~2.5qt. per drain/fill (up to 3 or 4 times)? Or will I only end up using ~2.5qt. throughout the whole process? Secondly, I keep seeing people say they tightened the plug to a specific point (i.e.: 29ft lb).... how in the world do you know if you're just using a standard wrench (as I think I understand I need- please correct me if I'm wrong)?

I'm fairly new to this and have very little experience in working on cars (I'm more a computer guy), but want to learn and do this myself. I've changed burned out parking lights/turn signals, replaced the wiper blades, cabin air filter & engine air filter, and most recently replaced the (broken) bolts holding the air cooling vent that's attached to the underside of the hood. All "simple" enough, but certainly not tinkering with major components. (Oh yeah- I can refill the windshield washer fluid, too. :P)

It seems like this is a simple enough process, I just want to make sure I do it right, and that I don't overspend in the process (helloooo dealer! haha). I really appreciate any help you can provide!

 

Per the manual, the transmission holds 6.2 quarts of fluid, but only 2.6 quarts (US) are drained during a normal "change." This is because half the fluid doesn't drain, it rests in the transmission cooler and torque converter and only drains when you take the thing apart. (hint: don't disassemble your transmission)

If you are doing normal maintenance, one cycle of draining and filling is sufficient.

If you are obsessive (like most here) you'll want to do more than one cycle. OCD types will drain 4 or more times, allowing a period between drain fills for the fluid to mix (drive it a few days).

Another reason to do multiple cycles is if you have an older Fit (2010 or less?) it has the older type of fluid. The newer "DW-1" Honda fluid performs better.


You need a torque wrench to measure lbft. It's useful for drain plugs and tightening wheel nuts (lug nuts) if nothing else. Over tightening once will cost way more than the wrench. (Read Z. Hester's review if nothing else.)

Hardware or software? It's important.

Here's the shop manual on the tranny drain/fill. It's ok to skip removing the splash shield (that's over the top OCD).

For the functional OCD here's a chart: