How to Check Transmission Fluid

Among checking the oil and brake fluid of your car, checking transmission fluid regularly can also avoid any maintenance issues and keep the transmission in proper shape to continue moving your vehicle forward. Follow this guide from the service experts at Cornerstone Chevrolet on how to check transmission fluid! 

Guide to Checking Transmission Fluid

1. Begin by turning on the engine for a few minutes. You will need the engine to be warmed up properly in order to check the level. Also, have your car in park. 
2. Get out of the cabin and open the hood. Locate the transmission fluid dipstick. If you have a front-wheel-drive model, you will most likely find it to the right of the oil dipstick. Can’t find it? Take a look at your owner’s manual.
3. Once you have located the dipstick, remove it and touch the fluid, moving it around between your thumb and forefinger. The fluid should be almost clear with a pink hue. If it looks dirty or gives off a burnt smell, then you will need to stop by our Monticello service center for a replacement. 
4. Use a rag to wipe off the dipstick and put 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 fluid.
5. With the help of a funnel, bring the fluid level up to the right spot. Don’t overfill it.

Checking the Fluid in a Sealed Transmission 

What about if there’s no dipstick under the hood? Then, your car might have a sealed transmission. A sealed transmission means there’s no dipstick to measure the transmission fluid level. If your Rogers ride has a sealed transmission, don’t check its fluid level. You will need the help of a service technician! 

When to Check the Fluid in a Sealed Transmission 

So when do you check the fluid in a sealed transmission? You will need to look out for these signs: 

• Strange noises when the gears change
• Gears hesitating before changing
• Noticeable delay when the gears shift during acceleration

While a sealed transmission is meant to limit the amount of wasted transmission fluid, issues can still occur, so you will still need to check the fluid!

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

How often do you need to check your transmission fluid? A general rule of thumb is once a month and that also goes for the main fluids, such as transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and engine oil. Look at your owner’s manual for a specific answer. 

Transmission Fluid 101

While the process on how to check your transmission fluid seems relatively simple, the transmission is one of the most complex parts of your Buffalo ride. Keep the following in mind relating to transmission fluid: 

• Transmission fluid varies as there are different types for recent models, manual transmissions, and automatic transmissions. You will find the recommended type in your owner’s manual for your model. 
• When it comes to checking the fluid on a manual transmission, you will most likely need a jack to access a plug located beneath the car. Most St. Cloud drivers prefer to go to Cornerstone Chevrolet for a service visit. 
• If your vehicle hesitates before shifting gears, it might be because of low transmission fluid or a symptom of a more serious problem. Check the fluid level and if you’re unsure, schedule service with us to figure out what the issue is. 
• You should replace your transmission fluid every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. The actual amount will depend on your driving habits, type of transmission, and other factors. Consult your owner’s manual for a more specific replacement interval, just like how you would find out how often you should check your transmission fluid. 

Our Service Experts Are Here for You in Monticello 

For more service advice, feel free to contact us and we look forward to getting your car back in proper shape for your St. Michael commutes. Our service team has new specials every month that you can take advantage of! 

Service Specials at Cornerstone Chevrolet