When is the best time to check the transmission fluid?
Mechanics recommend that you should check the transmission fluid when the vehicle is running. Before you start the process of checking the fluid, park the vehicle on a flat and stable surface, and start the engine. The vehicle should be on parking or neutral mode. Transmission oil expands with increased temperatures.
How long does it take to warm up the transmission fluid?
On how long to warm up the transmission fluid, it should take 15 to 20 minutes. However, some vehicle manufacturers suggest that you check the transmission fluid when the vehicle is not running. Therefore, it is advisable to consult the car owner’s manual first to confirm when they recommend your vehicle.
How can you tell how much fluid is in your transmission?
Check the fluid level—how high the fluid comes up on the dipstick—against the “full” and “low” or “fill” marks on the dipstick. The color of transmission fluid can tell you a lot about the health of your car’s transmission.
What to do if your transmission fluid is not clear?
Wipe the dipstick with a clean, lint-free rag; then reinsert it and pull it out again. If the transmission fluid is clear but doesn’t reach the “Full” line on the dipstick, use a funnel to pour just enough transmission fluid down the dipstick tube to reach the line. Don’t overfill! There are several types of transmission fluid.
How often should you check your transmission fluid?
You should check your car’s transmission fluid at regular intervals, like you check your car’s oil. Even if your car’s service manual says to check it every 100,000 miles, you should check it at least every month or every other month. Most drivers don’t feel the need to check the their fluids regularly.
How do you check the fluid on a manual transmission?
Most of the time, the level of a manual transmission is checked by placing your finger into the filler plug hole and seeing if you get some fluid onto the end of your finger. If you don’t, then the fluid is low.
Should car be running when checking transmission fluid?
Yes, the engine must always be running when checking automatic transmission fluid levels. A special tool is specified but many techs don’t use it. It will not dramatically affect the fluid level.
How do I Check my transmisson fluid?
Step-By-Step Instructions For Checking Your Vehicle’s Transmission Fluid Park vehicle on level surface, engage parking brake and start engine. Locate automatic transmission fluid dipstick, typically near where the transmission or transaxle meets rear of the engine. Remove automatic transmission fluid dipstick. Observe markings at end of dipstick. Insert long funnel into automatic transmission fluid dipstick hole.