How to Check Transmission Fluid

It’s extremely important to know how to check transmission fluid, as this can help prevent any issues in the future, which could quickly turn expensive. The transmission is the component that sets your vehicle in the specified direction and is a critical component of the drivetrain. Learn more about how to check transmission fluid with the experts at Southern Chevrolet, Inc.. For more information around Daphne, feel free to contact us anytime!

Steps to Inspecting Transmission Fluid

1. Turn on the engine to get it warmed up for a few minutes. Then, make sure to place your vehicle in park prior to getting out and unlatching the hood.
2. Locate the dipstick for the transmission fluid. Oftentimes, on front-wheel drive vehicles, you can find it to the right of the oil dipstick. We recommend checking your owner’s manual to be sure.
3. Take the dipstick out and touch the transmission fluid on the stick. Transmission fluid should be clear with a light pinkish color. If it smells burnt or is dark or dirty, it’s important to take it to a service center immediately.
4. Wipe the dipstick with a rag, put it back, and remove it again to determine the fluid level. If it’s below the “full” marker, you will need to add more fluid.
5. If your transmission fluid is low, use a funnel to increase the fluid level. Be sure not to overfill it.

If you would feel more comfortable having this done by a professional, feel free to schedule an appointment with our service center near Mobile!

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

So how often do you check your transmission fluid? You should check your transmission fluid monthly to ensure that it is filled correctly. While you’re under the hood, be sure to check the other fluids including the power steering fluid and engine oil. If you’re unsure about anything, we recommend checking your owner’s manual to be sure.

How to Check the Fluid in a Sealed Transmission

Some vehicles are equipped with a sealed transmission, meaning you will not find a dipstick. So what is a sealed transmission? This just means that there is no dipstick that measures the level of the transmission fluid. It’s important not to try to check your transmission fluid if it’s sealed, as this could damage the transmission. Instead, contact our service team to have your transmission fluid checked.

When Do You Check the Fluid in a Sealed Transmission?

A sealed transmission is designed to decrease the amount of fluid that is wasted by the transmission. However, you might still have an issue with your transmission, and the fluid will eventually need to be replaced. Let’s check out a few ways you can tell if there are issues with your sealed transmission:

• Odd noises when shifting gears.
• Hesitation when trying to shift.
• Hesitation when shifting during acceleration.

Transmission Fluid Tips

Transmission is one of the most important aspects of your vehicle. Therefore, it should be properly maintained. Let’s check out a few helpful tips:

• Transmission fluid is different depending on the type of transmission you have. To be sure, check your owner’s manual which will recommend a certain type of transmission fluid.
• In order to check the transmission fluid on a manual transmission, you will have to jack up the car. This is a hassle for most drivers, so we recommend visiting our service center near Foley for quick and easy service.
• If you notice that your vehicle is hesitating while shifting, your transmission fluid might be low. However, it could also be something more serious, so you should schedule service to be sure.
• On average, it’s a good idea to change your transmission fluid every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. However, this is dependent on your driving habits. You should consult your owner’s manual to be sure, and schedule a specific maintenance schedule.

Visit Our Service Center at Southern Chevrolet, Inc. Today!

Now that you know how to check transmission fluid, come visit the Southern Chevrolet, Inc. service center if your car needs maintenance or repair. If you plan on visiting our service team, be sure to take advantage of our service specials to save near Pensacola!

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