How To Check Transmission Fluid
You probably check your car’s oil on a regular basis, along with your engine coolant and maybe even your brake fluid. But, how often do you check your transmission fluid? Checking transmission fluid is important as a transmission that is too low on fluid can eventually become catastrophically damaged. The transmission experts in our service center want to help keep your car running in top shape on our Munster roads, so we’ve put together the easy-to-follow directions below on how to check your transmission fluid.
How To Check Transmission Fluid in Manual Transmissions
- Lift your car onto jack stands or a hoist.
- Find the fluid fill plug, which can typically be found halfway up the side of the transmission. Unscrew it.
- Stick your finger in the plug hole. Examine the fluid on your finger. If it looks dirty (not pink), it is time for a Ford transmission fluid change.
- If you can’t feel fluid, then top off the fluid through the hole.
How To Check Transmission Fluid in Automatic Transmissions
- Check the transmission fluid dipstick, which is not to be confused with the oil dipstick. On front-wheel drive vehicles, the dipstick will be towards the front of the engine, usually on the driver’s side. On rear-wheel drive vehicles, you’ll find the dipstick towards the back of the engine, usually on the passenger side.
- The fluid on the dipstick should be almost clear, with a pink hue. If it looks dirty, you will need to schedule a Ford transmission fluid change. If there are flecks of metal in it or gives off a burnt smell, make an appointment with our service team to have your transmission inspected for issues.
- Wipe the dipstick clean with a rag and re-insert the dipstick into the vehicle.
- Take the dipstick back out and check the level.
- If the level is under the “Full” marking, use a funnel and top off the fluid through the dipstick tube (don’t overfill).
How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?
As you can see, checking transmission fluid is critical to keeping it running in top shape. How often do you check your transmission fluid? Your car’s owner’s manual is the best source for that information, but many Schererville drivers have found it easy just to have the technicians check it at every oil change.
Let the Service Center at Webb Ford, Inc. of Highland Help
How long has it been since the transmission fluid in your car has been checked? Schedule an appointment with our service center so that we can take care of that for you. Just be sure to take advantage of our service specials. If you found this guide on checking transmission fluid to be helpful, check out our other automotive service tips. We’re just a short drive away from Griffith, so drop by or contact us today!
