QUESTION: MY CVT WARNING LAMP CAME ON AND A “SLOW DOWN” WARNING IS DISPLAYED ON MY Multi-Informational Display (MID). WHAT DO I DO?
For our customers who are having the issue described below, we are here to help you. If you wish to do the repairs yourself, this blog post will give you the steps needed to fix the issue, along with the part numbers needed. You can buy the parts online from FactoryMitsubishiParts.com. If you would like to have us make this repair for you, please contact our service department.
HOW TO FIX YOUR 2008 OR 2009 MITSUBISHI LANCER IF THE CVT WARNING LIGHT COMES ON
In this article, we will walk you through fixing this problem yourself. For the do-it-yourselfer, parts you need can be ordered from FactoryMitsubishiParts.com.
If you are not mechanically inclined, please contact West Mitsubishi and we can fix it for you.
MITSUBISHI MODELS AFFECTED
The Mitsubishi Models this includes are:
DESCRIPTION OF THE PROBLEM
The CVT warning lamp and a “SLOW DOWN” warning may display on the Multi-Information Display (M.I.D.) after driving at highway speeds during hot weather for long periods. The warnings will turn off after the vehicle is operated at reduced speeds, allowing the fluid to return to normal operating temperature. To correct this condition, reduce the CVT fluid level by 0.7 liters (0.75 qt.) and install a redesigned CVT fluid level gauge described in the PARTS INFORMATION section of this article.
AFFECTED VEHICLES
Built before December 22, 2008.
HOW TO REPAIR THE PROBLEM
Begin this procedure with the engine and transmission cold.
- Install a redesigned transmission fluid level oil gauge (part number 2706A085 contact FactoryMitsubishiParts.com for this).
- Reduce the CVT fluid level in the transmission by 0.7L (0.75 qt.) as follows. Complete fluid replacement is not necessary.
- Raise the vehicle on a hoist.
- Loosen the CVT oil pan drain plug 2 or 3 turns and use a small screwdriver or pick to loosen the drain plug gasket from the oil pan.
- NOTE: Have a new drain plug gasket (part number 2705A012) unpackaged and ready to install onto the plug.Completely remove the drain plug and gasket. Drain approximately 1 quart of CVT fluid into a CLEAN container. DO NOT dispose of the fluid at this time.
- NOTE: An empty 1 qt. CVT container works well. CVT fluid must NOT be contaminated with dirt, regular A/T fluid or other oils. If using a funnel, make sure it also is clean and there is no residue of regular A/T fluid or other oils.Replace the gasket with the new one and reinstall the drain plug. Torque to 34 + 2 Nm (25 + 2 ft.-lbs.).
- Lower the vehicle and check the COLD CVT fluid level. Make sure the level is at the “C” range (cold) of the gauge. If necessary, add some of the drained fluid to bring it to the bottom of the “C” range.
- Drive the vehicle and allow it to warm up to normal operating temperature.
- Check the CVT fluid level per the service manual, Group 23A – CVT – Transmission Fluid Check:
- On the MUT-III, click on System Select, then select ELC-AT/CVT/TC-SST from the System Select Menu.
- Select the Data List and locate Item 20, Transmission Fluid Temperature. Confirm fluid temperature data is between 143 – 161 counts (70 – 80° C, 158 – 176°F).
- Use the container of removed fluid to adjust the fluid level to the “H” range (hot) of the new gauge. Properly dispose of excess fluid.
After completing the repair, drive the vehicle in all gears and confirm that the CVT (Constantly Variable Transmission) is operating as it should. With the vehicle in N (neutral), look underneath to confirm there is no CVT fluid leakage.
PARTS INFORMATION
PART NO. | DESCRIPTION | QTY. |
2706A085 | Gauge, CVT Fluid Level (find it here) | 1 |
2705A012 | Gasket, CVT Drain Plug | 1 |
WARRANTY INFORMATION
Contact Us to find out if your warranty still covers this issue.
Adjust Transmission Fluid Level and Replace Transmission Oil Level Gauge
Nature Code: 51H
Cause Code: 990
Labor Operation Number: 234061AH
Time Allowance: this should take approximately 0.9 hr.
SERVING NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
We are Northern California’s Mitsubishi Dealership. Our market ranges from Sacramento to the Oregon border and includes Chico, Redding, Red Bluff, Orland, Willows, Williams, Yuba City, Marysville and more.
IF YOU LIVE IN SACRAMENTO
If you live in Sacramento and prefer not to have your vehicles fixed at Paul Blanco Sacramento Mitsubishi, we welcome you to bring your vehicle to us. We’re just a short drive away. Our customer feedback indicates very high satisfaction ratings, and we will do everything we can to keep you happy.