Just changed my fluid and filter using the amazing help here.
The magnet in the pan was covered in a smooth gray paste, a couple of mil thick. Should I be worried?
I wiped everything clean, reinstalled with new gasket, filled 'er up, and off I went. Runs great, always did, no codes or noises.
I bought the 2008 LS about a year ago with 175,000 miles on it. It's transmission fill cap was off and laying in a crevice. This HHR has lived in the high deserts only.

Strange goo and weird patterns. Crop circles in my transmission?


Also, the goo had formed in a strangely beautiful ribbed pattern.
The bottom of the filter was smooth, so it did not get the ribs from that.
Could be from the poles of the magnet, heat, and vibration?
I have attached a photo to prove that I did not imagine this.

 

Just means it is doing it's job.

 

Thanks!

 

That goop is just magnetic stuff sticking to the magnet as it should. Drive on and enjoy the ride!