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| Checking Your Transmission Fluid: Reasons and Methods |
Keep your vehicle roadworthy with routine maintenance. Learn how to check your automatic transmission fluid, and read our tips for fluid condition, leaks, and replacements.
Introduction: Routine maintenance is crucial for keeping your vehicle running smoothly and avoiding costly repairs. One often overlooked aspect of maintenance is checking your automatic transmission fluid. The transmission is one of the most expensive components of your car to repair or replace, so keeping it in good condition can pay dividends in the long run. In this beginner's guide, we'll show you how to check your transmission fluid and offer tips for fluid condition, leaks, and replacements.
How to Check Your Transmission Fluid: Checking your transmission fluid is simple and straightforward. First, locate the transmission dipstick, which can be found under the hood in the engine compartment. Make sure you are locating the transmission dipstick and not the engine-oil dipstick; the transmission dipstick is usually marked with a specific color or a transmission symbol. With the engine warmed up, leave the car idling in park on a level surface. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, replace it slowly, and then pull it back out. Check the fluid level—how high the fluid comes up on the dipstick—against the "full" and "low" or "fill" marks on the dipstick.
Fluid Condition: The color of your transmission fluid indicates the condition of the fluid and the transmission itself. Healthy fluid should have a reddish-pink color, while brownish-red fluid indicates that it needs replacement. If the fluid is dark brown or black, you may need to replace more than just the fluid. Dark fluid with a burnt smell can mean damage to your transmission's internal components.
Leak and Low Fluid: If your fluid is low, it's most likely due to a leak somewhere in the system. Filling up the transmission and checking it daily to see how quickly the level goes down can be a good way to assess the severity of a potential leak. If you notice fluid loss or observe that your transmission is using an abnormal amount of fluid, contact a mechanic as soon as you can.
Transmission Fluid Replacement: Contrary to what some internet mechanics may tell you, a transmission-fluid replacement will not destroy an older vehicle's aging transmission. If your transmission is healthy, then a fresh change of fluid will only help its longevity.
Conclusion: A little effort goes a long way when it comes to maintaining your vehicle. Checking your automatic transmission fluid is a simple task that can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. By following the steps above and paying attention to your transmission fluid's condition, you can keep your vehicle roadworthy and extend the life of your transmission.