D5 (D5244T to 2005) Auto transmission fluid level check

[Newbie Tony]

Hi guys.
I have a 2003 XC90 D5 AWD with 180k miles on the clock and I decided to check the fluid level in the transmission today. Having consulted the Haynes manual I removed the air filter housing looking for a T55 filler plug but instead found what appears to be a deliberately unusual bolt head not designed for conventional sockets.......designed to prevent DIYer's from undoing? Underneath I didn't find the T40 level check plug housed within another T55 drain bolt as Haynes said I would, nor anything resembling a drain plug. After a bit more searching I found a dipstick at the front of the engine and gearbox saying "ATF Fluid"
I'm trying to enclose a few photos below showing the dipstick level, the unusual bolt and something else that I know nothing about.......potentially an overflow?
I've got a syphon and have taken about 150ml out as the dipstick shows it over filled after a 15 minute mixed run. Despite removing some oil the level on the dipstick doesn't seem to have dropped (I'm wiping clean then reinserting on level ground). I'm going to wait til it's cooled then recheck the level. The fluid I've taken out looks quite black but doesn't smell burnt to my inexperienced nose!
My questions are: Am I doing the right thing? Is there a drain plug somewhere? I've not done any work on auto transmissions before so thanks in advance for your help!
Cheers Tony

[Newbie Tony]

[Newbie Tony]

[Newbie Tony]

[Stu B]

Hello, I’d say you have the earlier 5 speed auto AW55 box with dipstick, rather than the later 6 speed auto TF80, which doesn’t have the dipstick but has the level check plug underneath which your manual seems to refer to!

You can change the fluid in either, I’ve had both and changed the fluid but can’t recall now if you fill the 5 speed via the dipstick tube. If I can find the thread from my previous P2 V70 with the 5 speed box that will jog my memory…

Either way, good idea to change the fluid

[Kev0607]

The 5 speed transmission is filled through the dipstick tube. You’ll need a fairly long funnel with an end that’s thin enough to fit into the tube.

Here’s a video showing the process (note the drain plug you’re looking for);

+ YouTube Video

Its vitally important that you use the correct transmission fluid. You need fluid that meets JWS3309 spec. Don’t use anything else.

[Newbie Tony]

Thanks for your replies guys. I found that video on YouTube which was for my gearbox with drain plug on the side 24mm. I read the forum threads about the ATF fluid..... I'm convinced about the importance of using the correct spec. I've bought some Febi 22806 which meets both Dexron 3G and 3H which is what the Volvo manual specifies and am planning on doing the "sump dump" method. Anyone used that oil before?

[cheshired5]

Originally Posted by Newbie Tony

the dipstick shows it over filled

Was the engine on or off?

[Newbie Tony]

Good question Cheshire 5! I forgot to check the level with the engine running...... I think it should have been? I've drained the oil today and got about 3.2l out. On my gearbox with the dipstick, surely you can't check it while the engine is running can you? The check method in my Haynes manual with a running engine refers to a different gearbox with the T55 filler plug and the T55 drain and T40 level check plug within it.

[cheshired5]

For the AW55-50 - Engine running and gearbox fluid at the correct temperature before (with the foot on the brake) running through the gearstick positions stopping in each for a couple of seconds, finishing in Park then checking the fluid while the engine is still running.