How to Check Transmission Fluid

To ensure your car is running smoothly, you’ll need to inspect your car consistently, and this includes checking the transmission fluid. When you inspect the fluid regularly, you can catch any issues before they become serious. Don’t know how to check transmission fluid? No worries. Let the service technicians at Ford of Latham walk you through the process and answer frequently asked questions about transmission service, like how often to check transmission fluid, below! 

Checking Transmission Fluid: Step-by-Step Guide 

Checking transmission fluid is pretty simple. Here’s how to check transmission fluid: 

1. Turn the engine on for a few minutes before proceeding since the engine should be warmed up to properly check the level. Make sure your car is in the park before getting out and opening the hood.
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, moving it around between your thumb and forefinger. The fluid should be nearly clear with a pink hue. If it looks dirty or gives off a burnt smell, take it to a service center near Troy for replacement.
4. Use a rag to wipe off the dipstick. Then, insert it back into the vehicle. Pull it out again and check the level. If it’s under the “Full” marking, you’ll need to add more.
5. Use a funnel to bring the fluid level up to the right spot. Be sure not to overfill it.

Transmission Fluid: FAQs

When to Check the Fluid in a Sealed Transmission? 

A sealed transmission limits the amount of wasted transmission fluid, but like with any car, the fluid will need to be replaced eventually. Because the transmission is sealed, there’s no dipstick to measure the fluid level, so you’ll need professionals like the ones at Ford of Latham to check it for you. How do you know when it’s time to bring your vehicle for a check? Look out for these signs:

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

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

You should check your transmission fluid around once a month. You can also inspect other car parts, like the power steering fluid and engine oil during this monthly check. Remember to refer to your owner’s manual for a more specific maintenance schedule and fluid types.

Transmission Fluid Basics

Now that you know how often to check your transmission fluid and how to check it, you should also know a few other things about transmission fluid, including:

• Not all transmission fluid is the same. Due to different types for different models, manual transmissions, and automatic transmissions, your vehicle will require a specific type. Your owner’s manual will recommend a particular type of transmission fluid.
• Checking the fluid on a manual transmission will usually require a jack to access a plug located beneath the car. For most drivers, a visit to our service center near Albany is more convenient.
• If your vehicle hesitates before shifting gears, it might be due to low transmission fluid. It may also be a sign of a more serious problem. Check the fluid level first, and then schedule service with us today.
• You’ll want to replace your transmission fluid every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. The actual amount depends on your driving habits in Schenectady, type of transmission, and other factors. Check your owner’s manual for a more specific replacement interval.

Get Your Transmission Serviced at Ford of Latham Today!

Need your transmission serviced in Latham? Our service technicians can take care of that for you! Make your appointment now and reach out with any questions. Be sure to browse our service specials beforehand to see how to save on your next visit!