How To Check Transmission Fluid

Learning how to check transmission fluid is a great way to stay on top of routine maintenance. That’s because the transmission is a key component in your powertrain. While many Port Orange drivers routinely check oil levels, how often do you check your transmission fluid? Find out everything you need to know about keeping your car in top shape, and be sure to visit our service center in Daytona Mitsubishi with any questions!

Transmission Fluid Check: Standard Transmission

1. Warm up the engine for a few minutes to get everything ready. This is necessary to assess the fluid levels properly.
2. Park your car and get out to pop the hood.
3. Look for the transmission fluid dipstick. This is located to the right of the oil dipstick on a FWD car, but you can also check your owner’s manual for a diagram.
4. Remove the dipstick and touch the fluid with your fingertip. Move the fluid around your thumb and finger to see how it feels. If it is gritty, dirty, or burnt, you’ll need to schedule a service appointment. Transmission fluid should be clear with a pink tint when it is in good condition.
5. Wipe off the dipstick with a rag and insert it back into the reservoir. Pull it out one more time. Look at the fluid level. If it doesn’t reach the “Full” marking on the dipstick, you’ll need to add more.
6. Grab a funnel to add transmission fluid precisely, and be sure to avoid overfilling.

Transmission Fluid Check: Sealed Transmission

Some Ormond Beach drivers might find that they can’t access their transmission like a standard model. If you don’t have a dipstick, you might have a sealed transmission. A sealed transmission is designed to keep the fluid cleaner for longer, but you’ll need to take your car to a service center for a fluid check. You could damage your components if you try to check it on your own. When should you schedule your service for a sealed transmission?

• You can hear strange noises when the gears change. 
• The gears hesitate before changing. 
• During acceleration, there’s a noticeable delay when the gears shift.

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

You know how to check transmission fluid, but how often do you check your transmission fluid? We recommend checking all of your automotive fluids every month. This includes transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and engine oil. Why? It’s a simple and easy way to ensure that everything is working properly, and this allows you to catch issues like leaks before they become major issues.

Transmission Fluid Tips

• Different cars need different transmission fluid formulations. We recommend checking your owner’s manual to see what you need at the parts department.
• Manual transmission models are harder to check than automatic transmission models. You’ll need a jack to access the plug beneath the car if you have a manual, so many Palm Coast drivers prefer to schedule a service instead.
• One telltale sign of low transmission fluid is slow gear shifts, but this can also be a sign of a much more serious problem. Check your fluid levels, but schedule an inspection if your levels are normal.
• Change your transmission fluid every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. This can vary depending on your car and driving habits, and you can also refer to your owner’s manual for specific guidelines.

Schedule Your Service in Daytona Mitsubishi

Are you ready for your inspection or transmission flush? Contact us with any questions about our service offerings or feel free to schedule your service online.