How to Check Transmission Fluid

How often do you check your transmission fluid? Many Manteca drivers aren’t even aware that they should be checking their transmission fluid. But, checking transmission fluid is an important part of keeping your car running. A transmission that is too low on fluid can eventually become catastrophically damaged. The transmission experts in our service center want to help keep your car running in top shape, so we’ve put together the easy-to-follow directions below on how to check your transmission fluid.

How to Check Transmission Fluid in Automatic Transmissions

How often do you check your transmission fluid if your car has an automatic transmission? Most experts recommend checking all of your car’s fluids, including transmission fluid, once a month. This is easy to do with automatic transmissions, as there is usually a dipstick that can be accessed under the hood. Follow these steps:

• Check the transmission fluid dipstick, which is not to be confused with the oil dipstick. On front-wheel drive vehicles, the dipstick will be towards the front of the engine, usually on the driver’s side. On rear-wheel drive vehicles, you’ll find the dipstick towards the back of the engine, usually on the passenger side.
• The fluid on the dipstick should be pink. If it looks dirty, you will need to schedule a transmission fluid change. If there are flecks of metal in it or it has a burnt smell, you’ll need to schedule transmission service. Our technicians will determine if there is a need for a transmission repair.
• Wipe the dipstick clean and re-insert it.
• Take the dipstick back out and check the level.
• If the level is low, use a funnel and top off the fluid through the dipstick tube (don’t overfill).

How to Check Transmission Fluid in Manual Transmissions

How often do you check your transmission fluid if your car has a manual transmission? Many experts will also recommend checking fluid in a manual transmission once a month, though some manuals say once every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Some Turlock drivers choose to have this done whenever they go in for an oil change, as the access point to check oil on a manual transmission is usually under the car. Follow these steps:

• Lift your car onto jack stands or a hoist.
• Find the fluid fill plug, which can typically be found halfway up the side of the transmission. Unscrew it.
• Stick your finger in the plug hole. Examine the fluid on your finger. If it looks dirty (not pink) or has a burnt smell, it is time for a transmission fluid change.
• If you can’t feel fluid, then top off the fluid through the hole.

Let the Service Center at Central Valley Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram in Modesto Help

Transmission repairs are almost always costly. A good way to prevent the need for that is to have us check and change your car’s transmission fluid at the recommended intervals. So, schedule an appointment with our service center. And, if you found this guide to be helpful, check out our guide on how often you should have your oil changed. We’re just a short drive away from Stockton, so drop by or contact us today!