How to Check Transmission Fluid

How often do you check your transmission fluid? Excellent question. At Midway Auto Dealerships, we believe you must understand how to check transmission fluid so you can keep up with regular maintenance. If you are looking for help, our service department is here at your leisure. Our technicians can walk you through the steps, or you can schedule a service appointment with us. For now, we are glad to provide a step-by-step guide on how to check and change your transmission fluid.

Checking Transmission Fluid: Step-by-Step Guide 

Here is how to check your transmission fluid safely and frequently:

1. Park your vehicle and turn the ignition switch on to warm up the engine. 
2. Open the hood of your car to locate the fluid dipstick. On front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicles, the fluid dipstick is next to the oil dipstick. If unsure, we recommend referring to your owner’s manual.
3. Touch the transmission fluid between your thumb and forefinger to check its color. If its saturation is not transparent with a pink hue or has dirt and debris, it is time to change the fluid.
4. To check the transmission fluid level, you need to wipe the dipstick and reinsert and pull it back out. Check to see if the marking reads “Full”; if not, you will need to add more fluid.
5. To add more transmission fluid to your vehicle, use a funnel to the spot your owner’s manual recommends. Be sure not to overflow the liquid.
6. Whether you live near Holdrege or Hastings, our service team can quickly check and change your transmission fluid. 

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

The oils and fluids within a car often get overlooked. However, you should check your transmission fluid monthly, along with other liquids that keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Some primary fluid levels include transmission fluid, power steering fluid, engine oil, and window washer fluid. When to change the fluids in your vehicle will differ depending on your car. Again, always consult your owner’s manual before making any changes.

Transmission Fluid Facts and Tips

Like vehicles, not all transmissions are the same. It is one of the most intricate parts of your car, truck, or SUV. Here are some transmission fluid tips to help you stay informed:

• Since not all transmissions are equal, neither is the transmission fluid you use on your vehicle. You need to know your transmission, whether manual or automatic, to put the proper transmission fluid in your car.
• There are more tools necessary to check the transmission fluid in a manual transmission. For instance, you need a jack to access the location of the plug underneath the vehicle.
• Is there hesitation when shifting gears? That is a sure-fire sign that your car is low on transmission fluid. Keep in mind; it too may be a more severe problem. Thus, you will need to visit a service center for a proper diagnostic report.
• It would be best if you change your transmission fluid every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. However, when you need to change your transmission fluid will depend on your driving habits, type of transmission, and make and model. Your owner’s manual will offer more details.

Rely on Midway Auto Dealerships For All Your Service Needs

Our friendly technicians are the pros when it comes to keeping vehicles healthy, happy, and safe. Do not hesitate to reach out to our team to ensure that your car remains in tip-top shape. Take a look at our service specials to never miss out on a deal. We update our specials regularly for the community of Grand Island and surrounding areas to enjoy! Contact us today!