How do I change the transmission fluid in my 2004 Honda CRV and where is the drain plug?

Hi, basically this is the equivalent of the engine light except it indicates that something may not be right with the transmission. It could be something as simple as a malfunction in a sensor.

Have you checked the fluid? Have you ever changed it? Did you use only Honda recommended fluid? It may simply need to be topped off. Is there any indication of a leak? Is the fluid red or brown? If it isn't red then change it. Drain and refill it at least twice or up to four times for a thorough change. Less than half of the old fluid drains out with each change so it is necessary to drain an refill a number of times to get out most of the old fluid. After doing this check the fluid after using the vehicle for a day or two to see if it needs topping off.

Take it to a place like Autozone or Advance Auto Parts and have them put a code reader on it if changing the fluid or topping it off does not solve the problem. If you have a leak get it fixed.

usually many brands, especially honda, has many other companies that make fluids that are the same or even better in some cases then oem brands. in other words, don't worry about it, if he's a good mechanic, he'll use the right type of fluid.

Yes, the filter should be also changed. The gasket must be changed only if it was damaged when the pan is removed.

If you have an automatic transmission, locate and check the transmission fluid dipstick to ensure you have enough fluid.

If manual transmission, usually you can only check it by unscrewing a bolt. (the fluid lasts a long time and shouldn't leak -look for fluid on the bottom of the transmission or under the car..)

I have not worked on these, so I am just guessing.

The noise could also be not in the transmission perhaps..

First you have to drain old fluid.

The drain plug is towards the front of the transmission.
The refill port is closed by a bolt located at the top of the transmission


Read full instructions here: Automobile Repair Honda Odyssey Change Transmission Fluid.

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Regards.

my CRV is an Aussie one and Its right below the battery ...watch this http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-6oeicBhUx0 it's the same as your model make sure you use genuine oil though and not dexron III ( unless its for short term ) honda have special additives for this part of the Drive train, check the castrol site for oil info.

Honda's are drain and refill only.The filter is internal inside the transmission and can only be accessed during an overhaul.On the bottom of the transmission case is a drain plug that is gold in color.It is removed using a 3/8" ratchet,or extension with a ratchet atached.There is also an aluminum washer that must be kept track of and reinstalled with the drain plug or a leak will occur.After draining the trans,and reinstalling the drain plug,Honda genuine automatic transmission fluid,or an equivalent with a highly fricition modified additive must be used,or harsh shifting can occur.I would install about 3 quarts after draining,and start checking the level at this point.The fluid level is checked with the engine OFF,on level ground.

Call the dealer

I'm sure this depends on the year and model. For example a 2002 Honda CR-V should have the transmission fluid changed at 120,000 miles under normal use but under severe conditions it should be done at 60,000 miles.

Anytime the fluid looks brown or murky rather than red it should be changed.

To change the fluid you must drain it and refill it a total of 4 times, driving a short distance between changes. This is because the oil that comes out of the drain plug is less than half of what is actually in the transmission. You can have Jiffylube do it for about $75 or a Honda dealer for twice that. To do it yourself by draining and refilling 4 times may cost about $50 for the fluid. It is strongly recommended that youj use only Honda ATF purchased from the dealer. Use Dexron only in an emergency until you can get the Honda fluid.