Whether you've been having issues with your transmission or not, it's always a good idea to be able to know how to check transmission fluid. By doing so, you can ensure the level is where it needs to be, so the entire system can continue to perform properly.
Luckily, we here at Rountree Lincoln have provided Shreveport, Bossier City, and Stonewall drivers with the following step-by-step guide on how to check transmission fluid. Continue reading to get the process underway. If you run into any issues, you're more than welcome to contact our service center.
Here's What You'll Need for the Job
Checking
your transmission fluid is a fairly easy task that requires you to have
a few items at your disposal. They are as follows:
- The new transmission fluid, recommended by your owner's manual
- A clean rag
- A funnel
Step 1: Make Sure the Engine is Warmed Up
Go ahead and start your vehicle and let it sit until the engine gets warm. Since transmission fluid expands when heated, it's important that you get conditions as close as possible to the way they are when the car is in use. That way, you can receive an accurate reading. Otherwise, the cold transmission would likely look lower than it actually is and cause you to pour too much fluid in.
Step 2: Checking the Transmission Fluid
Lift
the hood and locate the transmission dipstick. You should be able to
find it near the oil dipstick. Take it out and wipe it down with the
clean rag. Now that you have a sample of the fluid on your rag, you can
examine it further. Here are the three characteristics you'll want to
keep in mind when you do:
- Smell. If the fluid is healthy, it really shouldn't have much of a smell. Be sure to have a certified mechanic take a look if it smells burnt.
- Color. The color of healthy fluid can be anywhere between red and light brown. Dark brown transmission fluid should be changed. If it's black, there could be something more serious happening with your transmission.
- Consistency. If you see dirt, have the fluid changed. If there are bubbles in the fluid, there could either be too much fluid in the transmission or you're using the wrong kind.
Put the dipstick back.
Step 3: The Fluid Levels
Pull the dipstick back out. When you do, the fluid should be between the two lines. Any fluid that's below the bottom line needs to be refilled-and this is where the funnel comes in. Place it at the opening and pour some of the new fluid in. Put the dipstick back and pull it out to make sure it's where it needs to be.
Remember to Check Your Transmission Fluid Regularly
Now that you've read through the above guide on how to check your transmission fluid, you'll be able to perform this important automotive task on your own.
Shreveport,
Bossier City, and Stonewall drivers who are having issues with their
transmission and would like to have it checked out can contact our service center here at Rountree Lincoln. Our team will be happy to take a look.