Transmission fluids are one of the essential parts of vehicles. They need frequent checks to ensure everything is perfect for the transmission fluid. At least you should check your transmission fluid every six months. However, if you want to check the transmission fluid first, you can refer to this guide.
In this guide, we have mentioned a step-by-step process to check the transmission fluid. All the steps are straightforward. Let’s begin with the steps.
What To Look For When Checking Your Transmission Fluid?
- Color: Most of the transmission fluid comes up in bright red. It could also be dark red, but it generally shows the age of the transmission fluid. If your fluid is dark brown, then you need to change it.
However, the worst sign is the black color transmission fluid. It typically indicates burnt fluid due to any transmission trouble. In such a case, you should take your vehicle to the transmission specialist to determine the cause of the burnt fluid.
- Consistency: As far as character is concerned, the fluid can be thicker than usual in many terms. It is entirely okay, but it is always better if the fluid appears new. Ideally, the fluid should not have many metal-shaving particles or contaminants.
The availability of metal shavings can lead you to trouble, and it should be corrected immediately. If you find foamy fluid, it can be because of too much fluid, overheated fluid, or the wrong fluid.
- Smell: Generally, the normal fluid is odorless. If you find any smell related to burnt toast, it might be a concerning issue. Simply, the burnt smell indicates some trouble with the transmission fluid.
6 Simple Steps to Check Your Transmission Fluid
- First, park your car on a level surface and lift the hood.
- Now, you must turn on your car and let the engine run for 5-10 minutes. It will warm up the engine. Generally, the transmission fluid expands due to heat, then operates in its normal conditions to provide accurate results. Simply put, if you check the fluid while the engine is off, you will get the wrong results.
- Now, you must let the engine continuously run while you check the fluid level. However, Honda is the only manufacturer that allows you to check the fluid after turning off the engine.
- Find your dipstick in the engine area in a red, pink, and yellow handle. You will generally find it near the rear-wheel-drive engine.
- Pull the dipstick out and clean it with a rag when you find it. Then, you can place it back into the reservoir. Now, you must dip the dipstick again to check whether the fluid is low or full.
- If your fluid is complete, then just change the dipstick. However, in any case, if it comes low, then you need to take your car to the right auto center immediately.
Final Words
Transmission fluids are simple to check whether they are okay or need changes. You can check the transition fluids in 6 simple steps. We hope you find all the relevant information in this guide.