How much transmission fluid for a 2009 Chevy Aveo?
In the 2009 Aveo, transmission fluid capacity depends on the gearbox: automatic vs manual. The automatic typically holds about 7.4 quarts of fluid, while the manual transmission holds about 2 quarts. Exact figures can vary by market, transmission variant, and service procedure.
Transmission options in the 2009 Aveo
The 2009 Aveo was offered with two main gearbox configurations in many markets: a 4-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual. Fluid capacity differs for each, and service procedures (pan drain versus full flush) change the amount you’ll need to add.
Automatic transmission
Typical capacity figures for the automatic version are outlined below. Keep in mind variations can occur based on pan size, whether a new filter is installed, and whether a complete flush is performed.
- Estimated total system capacity: about 7.4 quarts (roughly 7.0–7.8 quarts, depending on the exact transmission and pan assembly).
- If performing a full fluid replacement that includes the torque converter, you may need up to around 9 quarts.
Always verify with the service manual or GM dealer for your exact VIN and market.
Manual transmission
The manual gearbox uses substantially less fluid. Typical capacity is around 2.0–2.5 quarts, depending on whether the fill is done via a drain-and-fill or a complete fluid change, and on the design of the variant installed.
- Estimated total capacity: about 2.0–2.5 quarts. Use GL-4 75W-90 (or the specification listed in the owner's manual) gear oil.
As with the automatic, consult the owner's manual or GM service information for exact figures for your vehicle’s gearbox version.
What you should know before changing transmission fluid
To avoid under- or overfilling, follow a careful process and reference the exact service data for your Aveo. The following steps outline a typical approach.
- Confirm your transmission type (automatic or manual) and the specific transmission model using your VIN or the vehicle’s paperwork.
- Use the correct fluid type: Dexron VI ATF for most GM automatics of this era; for manual transmissions, use the recommended GL-4 gear oil (often 75W-90 or 80W-90).
- Drain the pan, replace the filter if applicable, and reinstall the pan with a new gasket; measure the drained fluid volume.
- Refill in small increments, checking the level with the dipstick or level plug per the service procedure, and operate the vehicle to warm up the transmission to normal operating temperature before final check.
- Do not overfill; allow excess to drain or use the correct refill amount if your manual provides a precise value.
These steps help ensure you achieve the correct level and avoid damage from overfill or underfill.
Summary
The 2009 Chevy Aveo’s transmission fluid capacity is dependent on the transmission type. For the automatic variant, plan on roughly 7.4 quarts total, with up to about 9 quarts if a full replacement is performed. For the manual variant, expect about 2.0–2.5 quarts. Always confirm exact specifications for your VIN and market using the owner's manual or a GM service manual before purchasing or adding fluid.
What kind of transmission fluid does a 2009 Chevy take?
DEXRON-VI
DEXRON-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF).
How much transmission fluid do I need for a 2009 Chevy Impala?
The 2009 Chevy Impala's total automatic transmission fluid capacity is approximately 13.4 quarts, while the initial fill capacity, which is what you'll need for a pan drop and filter change, is 7.4 quarts. The specific transmission in most 2009 models is the 4T65-E.
You can watch this video to learn how to change the transmission fluid and filter in a Chevy Impala: 59sFix and MaintainYouTube · Mar 29, 2022
- Total Fill: 13.4 quarts (for a complete overhaul)
- Initial Fill: 7.4 quarts (for a pan drop/filter change)
- Transmission Type: 4T65-E
- Important: Always recheck the fluid level after filling and after running the engine.
This video demonstrates the steps involved in changing the transmission fluid and filter in a 2009 Impala: 1mEveryday Fixes 41YouTube · Feb 26, 2024
How many quarts of transmission fluid does a 2009 Chevy Aveo take?
For Automatic Transmission: AW81-40LE....TIV
| Notes: | (1) T-IV Automatic Transmission Fluid GM P/N 88900925 |
|---|---|
| Capacity: | 2.2 quarts Initial Fill. |
| Capacity: | 4 speed AW81-40LE Total Fill 6.1 quarts. |
How many quarts of transmission fluid do I need 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.
