How many quarts of transmission fluid does a 2014 Chevy Sonic take?
The 2014 Chevy Sonic requires different amounts of transmission fluid depending on the transmission type. An automatic six-speed version generally uses about 9 to 11 quarts for a full fill, while the manual version uses roughly 2 to 3 quarts. Always verify the exact figure in your owner's manual or with a dealer service bulletin.
In this article, we break down the capacities for the Sonic's two transmission configurations, explain how the numbers apply in common service scenarios, and offer practical guidance for planning a fluid change or refill. The goal is to give you a clear sense of how much fluid your particular model needs and how to approach service correctly.
Two transmission configurations in the 2014 Sonic
The Sonic line offered both a manual and an automatic transmission in that year. Each has its own capacity specification, and the numbers can differ slightly by engine choice and production date. The following are approximate ranges commonly cited by manufacturers and service guides.
Automatic transmission (6-speed)
Estimated capacities for the automatic transmission in the 2014 Sonic are as follows. These figures assume a standard full-fill scenario that includes the torque converter and does not reflect a partial drain-and-fill:
- Total system capacity: roughly 9 to 11 quarts
- Pan capacity (fluid held after drain, before refill): roughly 6 to 7 quarts
When performing a drain-and-fill, you typically replace a portion of the total capacity—often in the range of several quarts—depending on how much is drained and whether the torque converter is flushed. Always confirm exact requirements with the service manual.
Manual transmission (5-speed)
Estimated capacity for the manual transmission in the 2014 Sonic is much smaller—and typically around 2 to 3 quarts for a complete refill, depending on the specific manual transmission model and fluids used.
As with the automatic, the manual's exact capacity should be confirmed in the owner’s manual or by a dealer service department, because production variations may affect the precise amount.
When in doubt, a service technician can pull the exact specification for your VIN.
Practical notes for owners
Regardless of transmission type, always use the fluid type specified by Chevrolet for the model year and transmission. This helps ensure smooth shifting and long-term reliability. If you're performing your own fluid change, plan for slightly more than the pan capacity to account for fluid that remains in the torque converter and cooling circuit.
In summary, the answer depends on the transmission: automatic around 9–11 quarts; manual around 2–3 quarts. Always verify exact figures for your specific vehicle, and consult a professional if you’re replacing the fluid with the vehicle in-gear or if you have a multi-vehicle service order.
Summary
For a 2014 Chevy Sonic, the transmission fluid capacity varies by transmission type: about 9–11 quarts for the automatic and about 2–3 quarts for the manual. Confirm exact figures in the owner’s manual or with Chevrolet service information and use the recommended fluid type for your model.
What kind of transmission fluid does a Chevy Sonic take?
The correct transmission fluid for a Chevrolet Sonic is DEXRON-VI automatic transmission fluid, which is a full synthetic fluid. This is a specific fluid recommended for most GM vehicles and is compatible with many other transmission fluid requirements, but it is always best to consult your owner's manual to confirm the correct fluid for your specific model year.
- Type: DEXRON-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
- Composition: Full synthetic
- Where to buy: You can find DEXRON-VI fluid from brands like ACDelco, Valvoline, and others at auto parts stores.
- Compatibility: While DEXRON-VI is widely compatible with many GM and other applications, always check your owner's manual for the specific recommendation for your vehicle's year, notes Advance Auto Parts.
How many quarts of transmission fluid for a drain and fill?
For a standard transmission fluid drain and fill, you'll typically need 3 to 5 quarts, but you should always measure the amount you drained and refill with the same amount to start, then check the level using the dipstick after running the engine. The exact amount varies by vehicle, and it's crucial to check the owner's manual or look up specifications for your specific make and model, as a drain and fill will not replace all the old fluid.
How to determine the right amount
- Drain the old fluid: Let the old fluid drain completely.
- Measure the drained fluid: Measure how much fluid was drained. This is your starting point for refilling.
- Refill with the measured amount: Put the same amount of new, correct transmission fluid back into the transmission. Using a funnel can help with this process.
- Start the engine: Start the vehicle and let it run for a few minutes, shifting through all the gears (Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive) while holding the brake. This circulates the new fluid.
- Check the level: Turn the engine off and check the fluid level with the dipstick. Add more fluid in small increments if the level is low, or drain a small amount if it's too high.
- Re-check: Repeat the process of running the engine and checking the dipstick until the fluid level is correct according to the dipstick's hash marks for a "hot" reading.
Important considerations
- A drain and fill is different from a full transmission flush, which requires significantly more fluid (10-12 quarts or more) because it aims to replace all the fluid, including what's in the torque converter.
- You should always use the specific type of transmission fluid recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer to avoid damage.
- Some vehicles, like certain Land Rovers, do not have a dipstick and require a fluid extractor to add new fluid. Consult your owner's manual to be certain.
How many quarts of transmission fluid does a 2014 Nissan Sentra hold?
A 2014 Nissan Sentra's transmission fluid capacity depends on the type: the total capacity for a CVT transmission is approximately 7.257.257.25 quarts, but a simple drain and refill requires about 3.53.53.5 to 444 quarts because not all fluid can be drained. For a manual transmission, the fluid capacity is about 4.24.24.2 pints.
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
- Total capacity: Around 7.257.257.25 quarts.
- Drain and refill capacity: About 3.53.53.5 to 444 quarts.
- Fluid type: Use only Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3.
Manual Transmission
- Capacity: Approximately 4.24.24.2 pints.
This video demonstrates the process of changing CVT fluid in a 2013-2019 Nissan Sentra: 21sSam Aka VlogsYouTube · Apr 29, 2023
How much transmission fluid does a 2014 Chevy Sonic take?
1.32 Gallons (5 L). It is recommended to check your vehicle owner's manual to be sure Pentosin ATF 64 is right for your vehicle.
