How to Check Transmission Fluid

Knowing how to check transmission fluid, and doing it regularly, can help prevent maintenance problems. The transmission in your vehicle is what propels it forward, so it’s essential to keep up on routine maintenance tasks, such as checking transmission fluid. If you’re not sure how to check transmission fluid level in your new Chevy, Buick, or GMC, Edwards Chevrolet Buick GMC can help! Keep reading to learn how to check transmission fluid and keep your car running smoothly on Council Bluffs roads.

Checking Transmission Fluid: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow the steps below to check your transmission fluid:

1. Let the engine run for a few minutes because your engine should be warmed up before proceeding.
2. Make sure your vehicle is in park and set the parking brake as an extra precaution.
3. Locate your transmission fluid dipstick. On front-wheel-drive cars, you’ll likely find it to the right of the oil dipstick. Check your owner’s manual if you can’t find it.
4. Remove the dipstick and touch the fluid with your fingers, moving it around between your thumb and forefinger. The fluid should look almost transparent, with a slight pink tint. If it looks dirty or smells burnt, take it to the Edwards Chevrolet Buick GMC service center for replacement.
5. Using a rag, wipe off the dipstick. Then, insert it back into your car. Pull it out again to check the level. If it’s beneath the “Full” marking, you’ll need to add more transmission fluid.
6. Use a funnel to keep from spilling as you bring the fluid level up to the right spot. Be careful not to overfill it.

If you run into any problems, contact us at Edwards Chevrolet Buick GMC. We happily provide auto service to customers from Omaha, Bellevue, and beyond.

Checking the Fluid in a Sealed Transmission

If you can’t find a dipstick under your hood, your car is likely equipped with a sealed transmission. What is a sealed transmission? It simply means there’s no dipstick to measure the transmission fluid level. If your car has a sealed transmission, you’ll need a service professional to check the fluid level. Please don’t try it yourself, as you may damage your transmission in the attempt.

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

Papillion drivers often ask us, “How often do you check your transmission fluid?” Check all of the primary fluid levels of your car monthly, including your transmission fluid, engine oil, and power steering fluid. Consult your owner’s manual for a detailed car maintenance schedule.

Transmission Fluid Basics

Your transmission is one of the most complex parts of your vehicle. These are some additional transmission fluid tips:

• Not all transmission fluids are the same. Your owner’s manual will provide a recommendation for a particular type of transmission fluid.
• Checking the fluid on a manual transmission typically requires a jack to access a plug located beneath the car. For most Papillion drivers, a visit to the Edwards Chevrolet Buick GMC service center is far more convenient.
• If your car hesitates before it shifts gears, it might be because of low transmission fluid. It could also be a sign of a more severe issue. Check the fluid level, and if it looks fine, make a service appointment with us today.
• Change your transmission fluid about every 50,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on your driving habits, transmission type, and other factors.

Trust Edwards Chevrolet Buick GMC for All Your Service Needs

Now that you no longer need to ask, “How often do you check transmission fluid?”, contact us at Edwards Chevrolet Buick GMC with any questions you have about auto service or maintenance. You might want to review our service specials as well. We’re here for you and always happy to help!