How to Check Transmission Fluid

Understanding how —and how often—to check your transmission fluid can help you to catch maintenance issues before they become serious. Your car’s transmission is what propels it forward, making it crucial to stay up-to-date on routine maintenance like checking transmission fluid. If you are unsure of how to check transmission fluid levels in your new or used vehicle, Moran Buick GMC is here to help! Read on to learn how to check transmission fluid and to assess the proper transmission fluid color in a few easy steps.

How to Check Transmission Fluid: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Turn the engine on for a few minutes before proceeding, since the engine must 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, it’s time to replace your transmission fluid.
4. Use a clean rag to wipe off the dipstick. Then insert it back into the fluid tank. Pull it out again and check the level. If it’s below the “Full” marking, you need to add more transmission fluid.
5. Use a funnel to bring the fluid level up to the right spot. Be sure not to overfill it.

If you run into any issues, contact the service center at Moran Buick GMC. We provide DIY tips and professional service to customers across Southgate, and our team is happy to help with any and all of your car-care needs!

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid in a Sealed Transmission?

What exactly is a sealed transmission? If you have searched and searched, but there’s no dipstick under the hood, your car is likely equipped with a sealed transmission. Having a sealed transmission doesn’t mean it can’t be accessed—only that there’s no dipstick with which you can measure the transmission fluid level. In this case, don’t attempt to check its fluid level. Contact our service team, and schedule an appointment at our service center in Taylor, where we will gladly check the transmission fluid level for you.

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid: Sealed

A sealed transmission is designed to limit the amount of wasted transmission fluid, utimately saving you money in the long run. Issues can still spring up nonetheless, and the fluid will eventually need to be replaced. Here are some of the red flags that may indicate a problem with your sealed transmission, and warn you it’s time to get it checked out:

• Strange noises when the gears change
• The gears hesitate before changing
• During acceleration, a noticeable delay when shifting gears

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid: Regular

Just like your other regular service appointments, you should check the main fluid levels of your car monthly. That includes checking your transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and engine oil. You can confirm a specific maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual.

Rely On Moran Buick GMC For Your Auto Service Needs

If you have any remaining questions about your transmission fluid color, maintenance schedule, or anything else, feel free to contact us. If your Buick, GMC vehicle is due for its next routine maintenance or service, feel free to stop by today—we’re conveniently located just a short drive from Brownstown and Dearborn! Be sure to check out our specials online to save money on your all-inclusive vehicle service.