How to Check Your Transmission Fluid

Checking your oil or windshield wiper fluid are pretty common skills, but what about checking your transmission fluid? You may be surprised to learn just how easy and quick this maintenance task can be, and how it will save you a lot of trouble down the road! You can get familiar with the norms of your own vehicle, and learn enough to know how to spot any leaks or damage your vehicle is preventing prior to the development of some bigger problems. Explore more service tips with the help of the White's Ford on 57 service team today!

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Explore How to Check Transmission Fluid: Step-by-Step Guide

First you have to warm up the engine of your vehicle to check the transmission fluid. So, turn the engine on for a few minutes before you start, park the car on a level surface, then get out and pop the hood.
Find your transmission fluid dipstick, referencing your owner’s manual if you need help locating it. Usually, front-wheel-drive cars have a transmission fluid dipstick to the right of the oil dipstick.
Pull the dipstick from the tube and touch the fluid, moving it between your thumb and forefinger – ideally it should be clear or slightly pink hue. Take a whiff, and if you notice a burnt smell or feel a gritty texture, you’ll want to schedule a fluid flush.
Wipe off the dipstick with a clean rag and insert it back into the tube. Pull it out again and check the level. If the level falls under the “Full” marking, you’ll need to add more transmission fluid with a funnel. Do not overfill.

Transmission Fluid: FAQs

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

How often do you check your transmission fluid? Well, it’s recommended to check your transmission fluid about once a month. While you do this, it’s a good time to also check your power steering fluid and engine oil. Your owner’s manual should have a concise maintenance schedule for your model. Be sure to also replace your transmission fluid every 50,000 to 100,000 miles.

When to Check the Fluid in a Sealed Transmission?

When it comes to how to check transmission fluid in a sealed transmission, well, leave it to the experts. Since it’s sealed, you will want a technician at White's Ford on 57 to take a look for you during your routine maintenance visit. You can tell that it’s time to replace the fluid when:

You notice strange noises when the gears are changing
The gears hesitates before changing
There’s a noticeable delay when the gears shift during acceleration

Get Your Transmission Fluid & Routine Maintenance at White's Ford on 57 Today!

After covering the details of how to check transmission fluid and how often do you check your transmission fluid for the best results, we understand you may still have questions. If that is the case, feel free to contact our service team at White's Ford on 57, or drop by for a visit outside of Massillon. You can also simply schedule your service today!

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