Do NOT attempt this unless you are comfortable working on cars and have the necessary tools. If you're unsure, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic.
That said, here's a general overview of what's involved, emphasizing that you proceed with caution:
1. Identify the correct transmission fluid: Your 1994 Sidekick's transmission requires a specific type of fluid. Consult your owner's manual to determine the exact type and specification (e.g., ATF Dexron II, ATF+4, etc.). Using the wrong fluid can severely damage your transmission.
2. Locate the transmission dipstick (if equipped): Some automatic transmissions have a dipstick, similar to the engine oil dipstick, but this is not always the case, particularly in older vehicles. Your owner's manual should indicate the location and procedure. If there is a dipstick, the procedure would generally involve:
* Check the fluid level: With the engine running and warmed up (to operating temperature), remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and remove it again to check the level. The dipstick will usually have markings indicating the "add" and "full" levels.
3. Locate the transmission fluid fill point (if there's no dipstick): If there's no dipstick, you'll need to find the fill port. This often requires removing a bolt on the side or top of the transmission. The owner's manual is crucial here.
4. Add fluid carefully: Use a funnel to avoid spills. Add small amounts of fluid and check the level frequently (if using a dipstick) or by looking for an overflow until the correct level is reached. Overfilling is as bad as underfilling.
5. Inspect for leaks: After adding fluid, check for any leaks around the transmission and the fill point.
Important Considerations and Warnings:
* Automatic vs. Manual: The procedure differs significantly between automatic and manual transmissions. A manual transmission rarely requires fluid additions unless there's a leak.
* Warmed-up Transmission: The fluid level needs to be checked with the transmission at operating temperature. Running the engine for about 15-20 minutes usually achieves this.
* Owner's Manual: Your owner's manual is the definitive source of information for your specific vehicle. It will provide detailed instructions and specifications.
* Professional Help: If you are not comfortable performing this task, it's best to have a qualified mechanic handle it. Incorrect fluid levels or type can lead to significant transmission damage, which is an expensive repair.
Again, this is a simplified overview. Improperly adding transmission fluid can cause serious damage to your transmission. Consult your owner's manual and consider seeking professional help if you are unsure.
