🔧 Transmission Fluid - Drain and Fill

Your CR-V uses Honda ATF DW-1 and a simple drain-and-fill service. This is the correct maintenance method for this transmission, and it helps keep shift quality smooth without risking damage from a flush.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 1-2 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Work on level ground so the fluid level is accurate.
• Use jack stands if you raise the vehicle. Never rely on a floor jack alone.
• Transmission fluid may be hot after driving.
• Do not overfill. Too much fluid can cause shifting problems and leaks.
• Battery disconnect is not required for this repair.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• 3/8-inch drive ratchet
• 17mm socket
• Torque wrench
• Drain pan
• Funnel
• Floor jack (rated 3-ton minimum)
• Jack stands
• Safety glasses
• Nitrile gloves
• Shop towels

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Honda ATF DW-1 transmission fluid - Qty: 4 quarts
• Transmission drain plug washer - Qty: 1

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on a level surface and set the parking brake.
• Warm the vehicle with a short drive, then shut it off.
• Have the new fluid ready before removing the drain plug.
• For the final check, the transmission should be at normal operating temperature.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Raise and secure the vehicle

• Use the floor jack to lift the front of the vehicle.
• Support it securely with jack stands.
• Keep the vehicle level for draining and refilling.

Step 2: Position the drain pan

• Slide the drain pan under the transmission drain plug.
• Make sure the pan is large enough to catch the full drain.

Step 3: Drain the old fluid

• Use the 17mm socket and ratchet to remove the drain plug.
• Let the fluid drain completely.
• Remove the old washer from the drain plug.
• Install the new transmission drain plug washer.

Step 4: Reinstall the drain plug

• Thread the drain plug in by hand first.
• Use the torque wrench to tighten it to 49 Nm (36 ft-lbs).

Step 5: Refill with new fluid

• Lower the vehicle enough to access the transmission dipstick tube.
• Use a funnel to add Honda ATF DW-1 transmission fluid through the dipstick tube.
• Add about 3.3 quarts to start.
• Add slowly to avoid overfilling.

Step 6: Circulate the fluid

• Start the engine and keep the parking brake set.
• With your foot on the brake, move the shifter through all gear positions.
• Return the shifter to Park and leave the engine idling.

Step 7: Check the fluid level

• Pull the transmission dipstick and wipe it clean with a shop towel.
• Reinsert it fully, then pull it out again to check the level.
• Add fluid in small amounts until the level is within the hot range.
• Do not go above the full mark.

Step 8: Inspect for leaks

• Check the drain plug area for any seepage.
• Wipe off spilled fluid with shop towels.
• Lower the vehicle completely.

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✅ After Repair

• Test drive the vehicle and confirm normal shifting.
• Recheck the fluid level after the test drive if needed.
• If the old fluid was very dark, repeat this drain-and-fill service after a short drive for better refreshment.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $140-$260 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $40-$75 (parts only)

You Save: $100-$185 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 1-2 hours.

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🎯 Ready to get started?

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