Transmission fluid is the lubricant for each of the moving parts within your vehicle's transmission. Clean transmission fluid is essential to prevent slipping and to add to the longevity of your 2002 Jetta's transmission; check it every 40,000 miles, and change it if necessary. Transmission fluid that is brown in color and has a burnt smell should be replaced immediately.
Place the Jetta on car ramps--on level ground--in order to attain a full view of the transmission fluid pan (located beneath the engine block) and the radiator.
Place a transmission fluid receptacle, such as a plastic gallon jug, near the radiator.
Trace the transmission cooler line to the radiator and remove the cooler line with a wrench. Place the end of the line into the jug and allow the transmission fluid to drain from the line.
Start the vehicle and allow it to idle until air sputters from the transmission cooler line. Turn the vehicle off and re-attach the cooler line.
Locate the transmission fluid pan and remove the bolts that run along the outside of the pan with a socket wrench.
Carefully pour the old transmission fluid into the plastic jug or other receptacle. Clean the transmission pan with lint free rags and bolt it back onto the vehicle.
Remove the transmission fluid plug (located on the side of the pan), insert the fluid pump tube into the pan and pump in transmission fluid (up to 7.4 quarts or until it begins to overflow). Insert the plug.
Start the vehicle and allow it to idle.
Remove the transmission fluid plug, insert the pump tube into the transmission fluid pan and pump in the remaining transmission fluid until it overflows. Insert the plug.
