Hyundai Repair: 2002 Hyundai accent, transaxle oil, pan gasket

Question
The transaxle oil looks burnt and vicosity seems low. I want to change the fluid and filter.  is Mercron III OK?  And is there anything I need to know, like will I need gaskets or special tools?

Answer
Absolutely *do not* use Mercon III.  Use only SPIII fluid in your transmission.  It's available at Chrysler/Dodge, Hyundai, Kia, and Mitsubishi dealers.  It'll be expensive, but nowhere near as expensive as the required transmission repairs that may result from using the wrong fluid.

Since you'll be replacing the filter, you'll also need a pan gasket.  It's also a good idea to get two drain plug gaskets.  You can purchase the pan gasket and filter together in a kit from your dealer and may be able to do the same aftermarket.

To perform the work, remove the two 17mm drain plugs and drain the transmission fluid.  When drained, reinstall the plugs and remove the 10mm bolts holding the transmission pan in place.  Remove the pan.  Next, remove the four 10mm bolts holding the filter in place and remove the filter.  Clean the gasket material from the pan and transmission.  Install the new filter.  Then install the pan and gasket.  Last, fill through the dipstick tube.  You should expect the transmission to take four to six quarts.