You want to know a question we get in our Salt Lake City transmission repair shop all the time? It’s “Tell me how to check my transmission fluid”. Since it comes up so often, we have gathered this easy guide to show you exactly the right way to do it.
The first thing you want to do is check your fluid while your car is running. There’s just one exception, which is that if you have a Honda you should run the engine or drive it, but then shut off before checking.
Now, put the transmission in the PARK position…unless you have a Dodge. If you’ve got a Dodge, put it in neutral with the emergency brake on.
Okay…now…do you know where the dipstick is? The one for the TRANSMISSION FLUID…NOT THE OIL? If so, go ahead and pull it out! If not, consult your owners manual to find out the location.
Alright – next, grab a rag you won’t mind getting dirty, and wipe the dipstick completely clean.
Now, put back the dipstick. Make sure to insert it fully. Then, remove it and take a look at what the level/reading is.
Finally, and this one is important…REPEAT THE PROCESS to see the reading is correct.
TIP: Sometimes, fluid sloshing around in the pan area around the dipstick can cause one side of the stick to read higher than the other side. When you are taking your readings, keep an eye on both sides to ensure they are showing the same thing. If not, simply repeat the process until they do. It shouldn’t take more than a couple times.
Some other things that are good to know:
- Have you recently added transmission fluid? If so, you’ll want to repeat the process to check several times before you truly trust the reading you’re getting. What can sometimes happen is that fluid will cling to the side of the filler tube and alter the reading.
- Are you seeing a reading that’s indicating your fluid level is LOW? If you are…then guess what? YOU HAVE A LEAK! Definitely bring your car into a qualified transmission repair shop to have it diagnosed. Waiting could mean a $2000 repair instead of a $200 repair!
- Questions about transmission fluid that are still burning to be answered? Discover more about transmission fluid on our Salt Lake City transmission repair shoponline.