Autobox fluid replacement
I want to renew the automatic transmission fluid and filter on my 2006 Vauxhall Astra 1.8 petrol automatic estate with the Z18XER engine as it is nearing 80,000 miles. I think I can see a drain plug, but not any way to access the filter/strainer. Could you give me any guidance?
For some reason the information I have from Vauxhall on your Astra is slightly confusing. If it is an Astra G then the XER engine is not listed, and if it is an H then the automatic gearbox option is not listed.
Making the assumption that you have the AF17 gearbox, the strainer is within the two sections of casing and can only be replaced when the gearbox is stripped down. Although the strainer is normally sold with an accompanying gasket, the job is not a simple one and replacement is not required during a normal fluid change.