How Do I Check My Transmission Fluid Level?
it is good to get in the habit of checking your fluid levels regularly
Most people know how to check their oil level, but not everyone may be aware you can also check transmission fluid level in most automatic transmission cars. If you drive a manual transmission car, you will not be able to check transmission fluid levels yourself. Instead, you will have to take your car to your local mechanic for transmission fluid service. Checking transmission fluid level is very similar to checking the oil level in your car. There will be a second dipstick under your hood that is labeled transmission fluid. In a rear wheel drive car, this dipstick will be towards the rear of the engine. In a front wheel drive car, it will likely come out of the transaxle.
Schedule an appointment with AAMCO Colorado for assistance with checking your transmission fluid levels. Checking your transmission fluid level is typically a very simple transmission service, though if you notice problems, you should take your car to a trusted mechanic for a Vehicle Courtesy Check and transmission repair.
When Should You Check Your Car’s Transmission Fluid Level?
If your car has a second dipstick for checking transmission fluid levels, it is good to get in the habit of checking regularly. This means you will be able to catch problems before they cause real damage within your transmission. You want to avoid an expensive transmission repair and if you make sure your transmission fluid is at a good level and has not become too dirty, you’ll stay one step ahead of serious issues. Even if you do not check regularly, if you notice your car having difficulty changing gears, it could be because your transmission fluid level is too low or is too old. Checking transmission fluid levels before taking your car to a repair shop can help save you money in the short term, although if your car’s levels are low, there is likely a bigger issue.
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How Do You Check Your Car’s Transmission Fluid Level?
Checking transmission fluid level is very similar to checking the oil level in your car. There will be a second dipstick under your hood that is labeled transmission fluid. In a rear wheel drive car, this dipstick will be towards the rear of the engine. In a front wheel drive car, it will likely come out of the transaxle.
Step One: Get Your Car Ready
You should park your car on a level surface and put it in neutral or park with the emergency brake on. With most cars, you should leave the engine running while you check the transmission fluid dipstick so that it’s warm. However, there are some exceptions and some cars require the engine to be off, so you should check your owner’s manual first.
Step Two: Check the Transmission Fluid
When you first pull out the dipstick, you can check the transmission fluid for signs that it is old and should be replaced. There are three key aspects to pay attention to when you look at and touch the transmission fluid.
Color: Fresh, clean transmission fluid should be relatively clear or slightly pink/red. If it is a darker red or slightly brown, that is okay but indicates some age. If it is dark brown, it is old and should be replaced.
Smell: Good transmission fluid should be relatively odorless. If it smells burnt, it is likely old and needs to be replaced.
Consistency: If you notice larger particles within the transmission fluid, not only should it be replaced because it’s contaminated, but it can also indicate a larger issue. Often, if there is debris in the transmission fluid, it means there’s a problem such as worn gears or a damaged torque converter.
Alternatively, if your transmission fluid looks bubbly or foamy, that can be a sign that either too much was added or the wrong kind was used.
What Should You Do if Your Transmission Fluid is Low?
If your transmission fluid is low, you can add some yourself using a funnel. However, you should make sure you get the right kind and do not add too much. Both mistakes can lead to serious problems within your transmission. Overfilling transmission fluid can cause seals to blow or cause your transmission to act unstable.
In the short term, adding some transmission fluid yourself can be more cost-effective. Often, it will fix the immediate problem. At the same time, transmissions are closed systems, so if your transmission fluid is low, that most likely means there is another larger problem, such as a leak. Because of this, you should still take your car to a trusted transmission expert to be diagnosed.
As a general rule, you should get your transmission fluid replaced every 100,000 miles and keeping up with any required transmission fluid services in between will help prolong the life of your car’s transmission. If you notice a leak or changes in how your car runs, make it a priority to get a Vehicle Courtesy Check by transmission experts to prevent a costly transmission repair.
Where Can You Find Transmission Fluid Services?
If you’re looking for a team of Colorado transmission experts, AAMCO Colorado staffs every location with well-trained, knowledgeable mechanics. Prioritizing transmission fluid service can mean the difference between a simple repair and a much more costly full transmission repair. Especially if you find that your transmission fluid level is low, you should make an appointment with your local AAMCO Colorado repair shop to get your problem diagnosed. Schedule an appointment today with your local AAMCO Colorado service center.
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