The 2004 Honda Odyssey requires a transmission fluid change every 30,000 miles or two years, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. With heavy driving, the recommendation changes to every 15,000 miles. Changing the transmission fluid keeps the engine lubricated and the gears shifting properly. Failing to do this maintenance may cause buildup of debris in the engine, which leads to shifting problems and engine failure. This repair, requiring only a couple tools and about an hour of work, is well worth it.
Raise the front of the S2000 on jacks to access the gear box underneath the engine. Slide underneath and locate the transmission drain pan, which is a large, metal pan near the center of the engine. Place a 4-qt. pan underneath the drain plug, which is in the center of transmission drain pan.
Use the socket wrench to remove the drain plug located at the front of the transmission drain pan. Wait 10 to 15 minutes until the fluid has drained completely into the pan below. Replace the drain plug. Remove all but one bolt from around the drain pan and wait until it's finished draining to the pan below. Place a hand on the drain pan to steady it while removing the last bolt. Tip the remaining fluid into the pan below. Wash out the drain pan.
Remove the filter, which is located below the drain pan, with the socket wrench. Replace it with the new filter. Reattach the drain pan. Lower the car from the jacks.
Opewn the hood and locate the yellow transmission dipstick above the drain pan. Pull it out and place a funnel in the tube. Pour in 4 qts. of automatic transmission fluid. Replace the dipstick and close the hood.
