How to Check Your Transmission Fluid

Your transmission fluid is a lubricant that keeps the small parts of your transmission working properly. Checking your transmission fluid on a regular basis can prevent serious maintenance issues while you’re driving in Asheville. To check your transmission fluid, follow these steps:

1. 

   Let your engine run for 10 minutes before proceeding, the engine must be warm to get an accurate reading.

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. It should be nearly clear, with a pink hue. If it looks dirty or has a burnt smell, your transmission fluid needs to be replaced.
4. Use a rag to wipe off the dipstick. Then insert it back into the stem. Pull it out again and check the level. Add more fluid if the indicator shows it’s not full.
5. Use a funnel to bring the fluid level up to the proper level. Take care to not overfill it.

If you have having trouble checking, refilling, or changing your transmission fluid, schedule an appointment with the Apple Tree Acura service department.

How Often Should You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

Check the fluid levels in your car monthly to ensure your car is safe to drive around %target_city_2%%. This includes your transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and oil. Cars that are used for rougher jobs or cars that take frequent, long-distance trips may need to be checked more often.

Transmission Fluid: The Basics

Your car’s transmission is one of the most complex parts of your vehicle, if one small piece seizes or breaks, it can be a costly repair. Before you check your transmission fluid, follow these tips:

• Not all transmission fluid is the same. Different vehicles require different types of transmission fluids. Your owner’s manual will tell you which transmission fluid your car needs.
• To check the transmission fluid on a manual transmission, drivers will need a jack to access the plug underneath the car. For some drivers, a visit to our service department near Johnson City is more convenient.
• If your vehicle hesitates before shifting gears, it might be due to low transmission fluid, but it could be a sign of a more serious problem. If your transmission fluid is full, schedule an appointment with a mechanic to check your transmission.
• It’s recommended you replace your transmission fluid every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. Depending on your driving habits, type of transmission, and other factors, it may need to be changed sooner. Check your owner’s manual for a more specific replacement interval.

Service Your Vehicle at Apple Tree Acura!

If you have questions about how to check or change your transmission fluid, our team of experts at Apple Tree Acura can help. You can even check out other helpful service features to help you stay on top of your auto maintenance such as how often to get an oil change or how often to rotate your tires. Contact us with any of your specific questions, or take advantage of our service specials and have your car checked out by one of our qualified mechanics in Fletcher!