How To Check Your Transmission Fluid

Check the fluids in your car or truck regularly to keep it in optimal shape. Along with the engine oil and power steering fluid, check the transmission fluid to be sure that you can drive safely aroundWhitewater. The folks at Drive Burtnesshave somerecommendations, so read on!

How To Check Transmission Fluid

Checking your transmission fluid is easy. If you have ever checked your engine oil level, checking the automatic transmission fluid is similar. Here are the steps to follow:

• Before you open the hood – When you want to check the transmission fluid in your car or truck, park on a level surface and leave the vehicle in park. Open the hood and have a rag or paper towel handy.
• Find the dipstick – The transmission fluid reservoir has a dipstick just like the engine oil pan does. You just have to find it. It is usually toward the back of the engine area and is often marked “transmission.” If you have difficulty locating the dipstick, check your car’s owner’s manual. It may be that your vehicle has a sealed transmission system and doesn’t have a dipstick. In this case, you cannot check the transmission fluid.
• Check level – Once you have found the dipstick, pull it out and wipe it off with the rag. Now gently reinsert the dipstick and pull it out again. Make note of where the fluid clings to the stick and whether it reaches the marks on the stick that indicate if the reservoir is full or low. If the fluid is low, add some to the reservoir and check again in a few days. If it continues to register low, you have a leak in your system and should take your vehicle in for service. 
• Fluid color – Pay attention to the color of the fluid on the dipstick. Laying the stick on a piece of paper towel or a light-colored rag makes the color easier to see. When it is new, transmission fluid is a light reddish pink. As it ages, it gets darker and if your transmission fluid is dark brown, it needs to be replaced. Also, if you notice tiny pieces of metal in the fluid, make an appointment for service right away!

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

Checking the fluids and tending to routine maintenance tasks is the best way to keep your vehicle in good running condition. A good rule of thumb is to check your fluid levels–transmission fluid, engine oil, and power steering fluid–once a month. If you check regularly, you can stay ahead of problems before they become serious and leave you stranded around Orfordville! 

Bring Your Vehicle in for Regular Maintenance at Drive Burtness

Regular maintenance is the best way to ensure your vehicle is safe in Janesville. Call today to schedule an appointment for service. While you are there, take a look at our inventory of new and used vehicles at Drive Burtness!