This procedure drains and refills the automatic transmission fluid on a 2016-2024 Hyundai Tucson with the 2.5L I4 engine and AWD, ensuring proper lubrication and longevity of the transmission.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Transmission drain plug crush washer × 1 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Hyundai SP-IV-M ATF — 10 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and apply parking brake firmly
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels for added safety
3. Allow transmission to cool to warm temperature (not hot) if recently driven
4. Raise front of vehicle with jack and secure on jack stands rated for vehicle weight
5. Verify vehicle is stable before working underneath

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate transmission drain plug
   Position drain pan under transmission. The drain plug is located on the bottom of the transmission pan, toward the rear of the vehicle. It is a 17mm hex plug. Clean the area around the drain plug to prevent contamination.
2. 2

   Drain transmission fluid
   Using a 17mm socket, carefully loosen the transmission drain plug. Once loose, remove by hand and allow fluid to drain completely into the pan. This may take 5-10 minutes. Note the color and condition of the fluid for reference.
   Torque spec

   Transmission Drain Plug30 Nm (22 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Inspect and replace crush washer
   Remove the old crush washer from the drain plug. Inspect the drain plug threads and sealing surface for damage. Install a new crush washer on the drain plug. Do not reuse the old washer as it may not seal properly.
   ℹ️Always replace the crush washer to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks.
   Torque spec

   Transmission Drain Plug30 Nm (22 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Reinstall drain plug
   Thread the drain plug with new crush washer into the transmission pan by hand to ensure proper thread engagement. Using a torque wrench and 17mm socket, tighten the drain plug to specification. Do not overtighten as this may strip the aluminum pan threads.
   Torque spec

   Transmission Drain Plug30 Nm (22 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Locate transmission fill plug
   The transmission fill/check plug is located on the side of the transmission case, accessible from underneath the vehicle. It requires a 24mm hex socket or wrench. Clean the area around the fill plug before removal.
6. 6

   Add fresh transmission fluid
   Remove the fill plug using a 24mm socket. Using a fluid transfer pump or funnel with extension hose, add approximately 4-5 quarts of Hyundai SP-IV-M ATF through the fill hole. Add fluid slowly to prevent overflow. The exact amount should match what was drained.
   ⚠Do not overfill. Overfilling can cause foaming, shifting problems, and fluid expulsion through the vent.
7. 7

   Check fluid level at operating temperature
   Start the engine and allow it to idle. With your foot on the brake, shift through all gear positions (P-R-N-D-S-L) pausing 2-3 seconds in each position, then return to Park. Allow transmission to reach operating temperature (160-180°F). With engine idling and transmission in Park on level ground, fluid should be at the bottom of the fill hole opening. Add fluid if necessary until it begins to trickle out slowly.
   ⚠Check fluid level with engine running and transmission in Park. Checking when off will give an incorrect reading.
8. 8

   Reinstall fill plug
   Once proper fluid level is confirmed (slight trickle from fill hole), reinstall the fill plug while engine is still running. Tighten the fill plug snugly by hand, then use a 24mm socket to tighten securely. Shut off engine.
9. 9

   Inspect for leaks
   Wipe down the drain plug and fill plug areas with a clean rag. Start the engine again and inspect both plugs for any signs of leakage. Allow to idle for 2-3 minutes while monitoring for drips. If leaks are present, shut off engine and re-torque the affected plug.

Reassembly

1. Lower vehicle from jack stands safely
2. Remove wheel chocks
3. Dispose of used transmission fluid properly at a recycling center or auto parts store

Verification

• Test drive vehicle for 10-15 minutes, allowing transmission to shift through all gears
• Verify smooth shifting with no slipping, harsh engagement, or delayed shifts
• After test drive, recheck transmission fluid level at operating temperature on level ground with engine running
• Perform final inspection underneath vehicle for any fluid leaks around drain and fill plugs
• Reset transmission fluid service indicator if equipped using diagnostic tool or instrument cluster procedure

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