Learning how to check your transmission fluid routinely can help mitigate many maintenance issues before they become hazardous. Your vehicle’s transmission is what propels it forward on the Omaha streets, so it’s important to stay up-to-date on your transmission care. If you’re unsure of how to check your transmission fluid or you’re asking “how often do you check your transmission fluid?” on your new or used vehicle, the service experts from Sid Dillon Chevrolet-blair Inc can help! Read on below to get started. 

Checking Transmission Fluid: Step-by-Step Guide 

To learn how to check your transmission fluid, follow these simple steps:

1. Turn the engine on and allow it to run for a few minutes to warm up. Make sure you put the car in park before you get out to pop the hood. 
2. Locate the transmission fluid dipstick. Generally, on front-wheel drive cars, you’ll find it to the right of the oil dipstick. Your owner’s manual can tell you exactly where to look if you’re having trouble. 
3. Remove the dipstick and touch the fluid. Move it around between your thumb and forefingers. The fluid should be essentially clear with a slight pink hue. If the fluid is dirty or smells burnt, it needs to be replaced. 
4. Use a rag to wipe off the dipstick, then insert it back into the vehicle. Remove it once more to get a volume reading. If it’s below “Full” slowly add more. 
5. Use a funnel to add fresh fluid until you’ve reached the proper volume. Be sure not to overfill!

Checking the Fluid in a Sealed Transmission 

If you can’t find a dipstick under the hood, your car is likely equipped with a sealed transmission. That may lead you to wonder, “What is a sealed transmission?” The word sealed isn’t synonymous with “can’t be accessed,” it just means you won’t be able to check in your own Lincoln garage with a dipstick. If your car has a sealed transmission, do not attempt to check the fluid level, you may end up damaging your vehicle. Instead, schedule service with us in Blair for expert care. 

When to Check the Fluid in a Sealed Transmission

The reason some vehicles have a sealed transmission is because it can limit the amount of transmission fluid that gets wasted. This may seem like an inconvenience, but it can save you money in the long run. Issues can still crop up with a sealed transmission, so you’ll want to keep an eye out for the following signs:

• Strange noises coming from the engine.
• Hesitation in the gears.
• Delay in gear shifting as you accelerate.

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

So, how often do you check your transmission fluid? Ideally, you should do a spot check on your fluid levels once a month. You can check your transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and engine oil to ensure that everything is at the proper volume. Of course, be sure to consult your owner’s manual for more specific information on when to check your fluids. 

Transmission Fluid Basics

Your transmission is one of the most complicated components under the hood of your vehicle. So, you’ll want to explore these tips before you get to work in your Fremont driveway:

• There are different types of transmission fluids that go with different models and transmission types. Your owner’s manual will tell you what type of fluid you need. 
• Not all transmission fluid is the same, with different types for recent models, manual transmissions, and automatic transmissions. Your owner’s manual will recommend a particular type of transmission fluid.
• In order to check the fluid on a manual transmission, you’ll need a jack to access the plug under the car. For most drivers, it’s easier to visit our Blair service center for this maintenance task. 
• While a hesitation in gear shifting may be a sign that your transmission fluid is running low, it may be a sign of a much more serious problem. Check your fluid level first, but if it seems fine, schedule service with us right away. 
• Generally, you’ll want to replace your transmission fluid every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. The wide range is due to variations in driving habits, transmission type, and other factors. 

Rely on Sid Dillon Chevrolet-blair Inc for Automotive Care

Whether you’re unsure about your transmission fluid or you need help with other repairs, our service tips are here to guide you through automotive ownership. You’ll want to be sure to explore our service coupons for extra savings before your next visit. And as always, feel free to contact us with any questions!