ATF level

[Kneale Brownson]

The "special tool" is a real dipstick.  That thing you describe is just a plug for the transmission fill tube.
   
  I don't know about the 100s, but I bought a dipstick for the V8s through the dealer.  Its use is made after the transmission has been operated long enough to reach normal temperature.  Then park on a level spot with the engine idling to check fluid level with the dipstick.

Kent McLean <kentmclean at comcast.net> wrote:
  I'm trying to check the automatic transmission fluid level on my '94 100 S
Avant, V6 FWD automatic Avant. The owner's manual is no help -- it says
it requires special tools, and to take it to the dealer.

My generic knowledge says to drive the car to bring the engine temp up to
normal operating temperature, park it on a level surface, keep the engine
running, then remove the dip stick, wipe it clean, insert it fully, then
remove it to check that it is between the "full" and "low" marks.

The "dip stick" on my Audi is about 2-inches long, with about 1/2-inch
between unlabeled marks. The fluid level would be at the top of a long
tube that leads down to the transmission, so I assume my generic knowledge
is wrong for the Audi V6.