How to Check Transmission Fluid
Your car’s transmission allows the car to shift gears and keep the engine running smoothly. The transmission, similarly, to the engine and brakes, is kept nice and lubricated by what is called transmission fluid. Without this fluid, the transmission won’t be able to function correctly, leading to potential trouble for your car.
So, what you want to know as a responsible car owner is how to check the transmission fluid of your vehicle. Here at Russell & Smith Ford, we’ve put together this guide so that you can keep up with your car’s health, and drive safely around Houston, Sugarland, and Missouri City, Texas, for many miles up ahead.
Let’s see how you do this step by step! Contact us with any questions!
Quick Facts
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How To Check Transmission Fluid: Quick Facts | |
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How do you check your transmission fluid? |
The transmission fluid dipstick. |
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What color should the transmission fluid be? |
The color should be reddish pink. |
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What should I do if I’m concerned about my transmission? |
Always feel free to drop by your service center if you have any questions or need help! |
Step 1: Pop Open the Hood and Find Your Car's Dipstick
The dipstick is the device that measures the levels of your car’s transmission fluid. So, the first step is to:
- Turn on the car
- Leave the engine idling
- Open the hood
- Find the dipstick
Where the dipstick is located can vary from model to model, so be sure to consult your official owner’s manual for full details before you go poking around.
Step 2: Check the Level
Here comes the crux of how to check transmission fluid in your car. Remove the dipstick (pro-tip: wear gloves!), clean the dipstick, and reinsert. Once you pull it out again, you want to see where the fluid level sits. Is it sitting at the full line? You have the right amount!
Step 3: Fill Up as Needed or Change the Fluid Out
If the fluid rests below the full line, more transmission fluid is needed for your vehicle to keep working smoothly. How do you accomplish that? Either:
- Top it off yourself
- Get the help of your trusted servicer
Make sure to check the level regularly: if the level keeps running low, you may need to have your car looked at to make sure that everything is functioning as well as it should be.
However, instead of topping it off, there might be instances where you need to flush the fluid out and replace it entirely. At certain points, it has to be done. Check your owner’s manual to know for sure when it’s time for a replacement. But another reason to change out the fluid is if the color is off.
Step 4: Make Sure You Check the Color
Aside from checking the level, check the color of the transmission fluid. Different colors mean different things:
- A reddish-pink color means it is healthy
- A brownish-red color means it might need replacement
- Dark brown or black means something in your car may need repair
It’s always good to get a second opinion. Head in for service whenever you have concerns or questions about the quality of your car’s transmission and transmission fluid.
Step 5: Dropping by the Service Center
It’s always a good idea to get a professional opinion when there is something to investigate for your transmission, whether your car is:
- Running low on transmission fluid
- Showing the wrong transmission fluid color
- Not switching gears smoothly
You can stop by our service center whenever you want some extra help!
How Your Dealership Can Help You Check Transmission Fluid and More
Congratulations! Now that you’re equipped to check your transmission fluid, you now know when everything looks all right or when things need some maintenance. Schedule service at Russell & Smith Ford for help with your car’s transmission, engine, and more!
We’re ready to help drivers in the areas of Houston, Sugarland, and Missouri City, TX, drive around reliably!
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| Tuesday | 9:00AM - 8:00PM |
| Wednesday | 9:00AM - 8:00PM |
| Thursday | 9:00AM - 8:00PM |
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| Saturday | 9:00AM - 8:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Tuesday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Wednesday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
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| Tuesday | 8:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Thursday | 8:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Friday | 8:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Saturday | 8:00AM - 4:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday | 7:30AM - 6:00PM |
| Tuesday | 7:30AM - 6:00PM |
| Wednesday | 7:30AM - 6:00PM |
| Thursday | 7:30AM - 6:00PM |
| Friday | 7:30AM - 6:00PM |
| Saturday | 9:00AM - 12:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |