Manual Trans Fluid Change

This procedure drains and refills the manual transmission fluid on a 2017 Maserati Levante 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo RWD to maintain optimal transmission performance and longevity.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Drain plug crush washer × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Fill plug crush washer × 1 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Manual transmission fluid (OEM specification for Maserati 6-speed manual) — 2.5 qt

Preparation

1. Drive vehicle for 10-15 minutes to bring transmission fluid to operating temperature (140-160°F)
2. Raise vehicle on lift or secure jack stands ensuring it is level for accurate fill procedure
3. Locate transmission drain plug on bottom of transmission case and fill plug on side of transmission
4. Prepare drain pan and position under transmission drain plug
5. Ensure replacement crush washers and correct OEM-specification manual transmission fluid are available

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove fill plug first
   Before draining, remove the fill plug on the side of the transmission case using a 17mm hex socket. This ensures you can refill the transmission after draining. If the fill plug is seized or damaged, do not proceed with draining until it can be removed.
2. 2

   Remove drain plug and drain fluid
   Position drain pan directly under the drain plug. Using a 17mm hex socket, slowly loosen the drain plug. Be prepared for hot fluid to flow out quickly. Remove the drain plug completely and allow all fluid to drain for at least 10 minutes until flow stops completely.
   ⚠Hot transmission fluid will flow out rapidly. Keep hands and arms clear of the fluid stream.
3. 3

   Inspect and clean drain plug
   Once fluid has completely drained, inspect the drain plug for metal particles or damage. Clean the drain plug threads and sealing surface thoroughly with a clean rag. Inspect the drain hole threads in the transmission case for damage.
4. 4

   Install drain plug with new washer
   Install a new crush washer on the drain plug. Insert the drain plug into the transmission case and hand-tighten. Using a torque wrench and 17mm hex socket, torque the drain plug to specification.
5. 5

   Fill transmission with new fluid
   Using a fluid transfer pump or fill bottle with hose, insert the fill hose into the fill plug hole. Slowly pump or pour new OEM-specification manual transmission fluid into the transmission. Fill until fluid begins to drip or run out of the fill hole, indicating the transmission is full to the proper level. This typically requires approximately 2.5 quarts but fill to level, not to a specific quantity.
   ℹ️Fill slowly to allow air to escape and prevent overflow. The correct level is reached when fluid begins to overflow from the fill hole.
6. 6

   Install fill plug with new washer
   Once fluid reaches the fill hole and begins to overflow, install a new crush washer on the fill plug. Quickly insert and hand-tighten the fill plug to minimize fluid loss. Using a torque wrench and 17mm hex socket, torque the fill plug to specification.
7. 7

   Clean and inspect for leaks
   Wipe down the transmission case around both drain and fill plugs to remove any spilled fluid. Inspect both plugs carefully for signs of leakage. Lower the vehicle and start the engine. With the engine idling and transmission in neutral, check underneath for any fluid drips.

Reassembly

1. Ensure both drain and fill plugs are torqued to specification with new crush washers installed
2. Verify no fluid leaks are present around either plug
3. Dispose of used transmission fluid properly at an approved recycling facility

Verification

• With vehicle running and on level ground, check for leaks around drain and fill plugs after 5 minutes
• Test drive vehicle through all gears to verify smooth shifting and proper transmission operation
• After test drive, recheck fill plug area for any signs of seepage or leakage
• Verify fluid level by briefly removing fill plug with engine off and transmission at operating temperature - fluid should be at the bottom of the fill hole

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