How to Check Transmission Fluid

Regularly checking your transmission fluid will allow you to catch any problems before they become serious problems on your Tinley Park drives. Since your transmission is what propels your automobile forward, having the right transmission fluid will keep you moving around Orland Park with ease. Learn how to check transmission fluid and how often to check transmission fluid with the service team at The Garage at Bettenhausen, and contact us if we can be of service.

Checking Transmission Fluid: Step-by-Step Guide

Here are the simple steps on how to check transmission fluid:

1. Turn on your engine and let it warm up for a few minutes before proceeding.
2. Make sure your vehicle’s parking brake is set before getting out and opening the hood.
3. Find your transmission fluid dipstick. It’s usually located to the right of the oil dipstick on front-wheel-drive cars, but check your owner’s manual if you can’t find it.
4. Remove the dipstick and touch the transmission fluid. Move it around between your thumb and forefinger to check its color and other properties. It should appear nearly clear, with a pink hue. If it looks dirty or smells burnt, take it to the The Garage at Bettenhausen service center for transmission fluid replacement.
5. Use an old rag to wipe off the dipstick and insert it back into the vehicle. Pull it out again to check the fluid level. If it’s under the “Full” mark, add more until it shows as full.
6. Use a funnel to add more fluid, so it doesn’t spill on your engine, and be careful not to overfill it.

Transmission Fluid: FAQs

When to Check the Fluid in a Sealed Transmission?

A sealed transmission is used in many new cars to limit the amount of wasted transmission fluid. Still, it will eventually need to be replaced. With a sealed transmission, there’s no dipstick to check the fluid level, so our service team near Oak Forest will check it for you to avoid any issues. These are indicators that it’s time to replace your sealed transmission fluid:

• The gears hesitate before changing.
• You hear grinding noises when the gears change.
• During acceleration, there’s a delay when the gears shift.

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

Your transmission fluid needs checked once a month, and while you’re at it, check your vehicle’s power steering fluid and engine oil. Read your owner’s manual for your specific maintenance schedule and fluid types.

Get Your Transmission Serviced at The Garage at Bettenhausen Today

Now that you understand how to check transmission fluid, we invite you to keep your classic car running in top shape around Frankfort with our service center. You can schedule your next service appointment online for your convenience. You can even save some money with our service specials, so contact us when we can help!