How to Check Transmission Fluid

It’s critical to know how to check transmission fluid and when to change transmission fluid. After all, your transmission is the system that regulates and directs power from your engine to your wheels while driving on Stratford streets. It’s every bit as vital and complex as your engine block, and keeping it regularly topped off with fluid is essential to preventing problems down the line—but how often do you check your transmission fluid, and how do you do it? Read on to learn how to check transmission fluid in a few easy steps. If you need help along the way, contact Hillside Chevrolet Buick GMC in Charlottetown!

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

Follow these steps for 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 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 centre 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.

If you have any issues in the process, feel free to check with Hillside Chevrolet Buick GMC, our team provides service to customers from PEI and beyond.

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid: a Sealed Transmission

If you can’t seem to find a dipstick under the hood, then you may have a sealed transmission. A sealed transmission simply means there’s no dipstick with which you can measure the transmission fluid level. If your car has a sealed transmission, don’t attempt to check its fluid level because you could cause damage. Our service team will gladly check the transmission fluid level when you bring your car in for service.

A sealed transmission limits the amount of wasted transmission fluid and saves you money in the long run. Issues can still spring up, though, and the fluid will need to be replaced. So, keep an eye out for the following red flags, that could indicate a problem with your sealed transmission:

• You hear strange noises when the gears change.
• The gears hesitate before changing.
• There’s a noticeable delay when the gears shift during acceleration.

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

It’s generally expected that you should check your transmission fluid monthly. As always, you can consult your owner’s manual for a more specific maintenance schedule.

Transmission Fluid: The Basics

Your transmission is one of the most complex and important parts of your vehicle. Before you check your transmission fluid, explore these tips:

• Your owner’s manual will recommend a particular type of transmission fluid – find the one that suits your model.
• Checking the fluid on a manual transmission will usually require a jack to access a plug located beneath the car. Most drivers prefer visiting our service centre near Cornwall is more convenient.
• If your vehicle hesitates before shifting gears, it could be due to low transmission fluid, or it could be a sign of a more serious problem. Check the fluid level and if it’s fine, schedule service with us today.
• You’ll want to replace your transmission fluid every 80,000 to 160,000 km. The actual amount depends on your driving habits, type of transmission, and other factors. Check your owner’s manual for a more specific replacement interval.

Come to Hillside Chevrolet Buick GMC For All Your Service Needs

We can answer any questions you have about vehicle service or maintenance. Contact our service centre online or by phone at 833-914-1496. You can also stop by our showroom near Cornwall and PEI. Check out our specials before you visit!