How to Check Your Vehicle’s Transmission Fluid

 
Your vehicle’s transmission is what propels your vehicle forward when you push down on the gas pedal. Transmission fluid is necessary to prevent the various metallic parts from grinding on each other, which will prevent damage in the future. That’s why it’s necessary to frequently check your transmission fluid, but not many people know when to check transmission fluid, how to check transmission fluid, or determine the state of transmission fluid.

If you don’t know how to check transmission fluid or when to check transmission fluid, use this helpful guide to help keep your vehicle’s health and maintenance at its prime level. Or, if you don’t have the time, bring your vehicle over to our Baton Rouge service center, where our team of skilled technicians will change your fluid and have you back out onto the road in no time. Contact us to learn about our services and benefits, or schedule an appointment today!

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

Automotive experts recommend that you check your transmission fluid every 30,000 miles, depending on which car you drive. The average driver adds around 13,500 miles on their vehicles per year; so, it’s a good idea to change your transmission fluid about every two years. Our technicians at our Denham Springs-area dealership can provide information on when to you check your transmission fluid.

How to Check Transmission Fluid

There’s a simple way to check your transmission fluid if your vehicle has a dipstick. Use the following steps to check its state:

1. Turn the engine on for a few minutes to heat the fluids since the engine should be warmed up to properly check the level.
2. Find the transmission fluid dipstick. On front-wheel-drive cars, it’s usually located to the right of the oil dipstick. Check your owner’s manual if you’re having trouble finding it.
3. Remove the dipstick and touch the fluid, moving it around between your thumb and forefinger. The fluid should be nearly clear, with a pink hue. If it looks dirty or gives off a burnt smell, take it to a service center for replacement.
4. Use a rag to wipe off the dipstick. Then insert it back into the vehicle. Pull it out again and check the level. If it’s under the “Full” marking, you’ll need to add more.
5. Use a funnel to bring the fluid level up to the right spot. Be sure not to overfill it.

Checking Sealed Transmission Fluid

As any of our skilled technicians at our Hammond-area dealership will tell you, not all transmission fluid can be checked using the dipstick. Some vehicle’s transmission fluid is located underneath the car in a sealed valve. You find sealed valves in luxury cars. In this case, it’s best to bring your vehicle to our service center and have a technician do this change for you to prevent damage.

Transmission Fluid Coloration

Anyone who knows how to check transmission fluid will tell you that the color of the fluid determines its health. See the meaning of your transmission fluid color below:

• Reddish/Pink: Your transmission fluid is fresh
• Reddish/Brown: Your transmission fluid has some miles but doesn’t need to be changed
• Brown: Your Transmission fluid needs to be changed
• Dark Brown/Black: Shows signs of corrosion and oxidation. Change immediately.

Service your Vehicle at Ralph Sellers Chevrolet!

If you’re unsure of how to check your transmission fluid or when to check transmission fluid, bring your vehicle to our Gonzales-area service center for high-end service. Contact us for more information on the service we can provide you!