
Locate automatic transmission fluid dipstick, typically near where the transmission or transaxle meets rear of the engine.(Be aware that some automatic transmission fluid levels are checked with the engine off.
#Check automatic transmission fluid manual
Let engine warm up and continue to run throughout operation unless vehicle’s owner’s manual says otherwise. Park vehicle on level surface, engage parking brake and start engine.STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS FOR CHECKING YOUR VEHICLE’S TRANSMISSION FLUID If the fluid is low, take your vehicle to an auto centre right away for a fill. Remove the dipstick again and locate the indicators on the stick to determine whether the fluid is “full” or “low.” If the fluid is full, replace the dipstick and close the hood. Pull out the dipstick and using a clean rag, wipe it clean, and place it back into the reservoir.Often found near the oil dipstick in front-wheel drive vehicles and near the rear of the engine for rear-wheel-drive engines, it is conveniently labelled for access and can have a red, pink, or yellow-coloured handle. Note: Honda is the only manufacturer that recommends you turn off the engine and then immediately check the level. Allow the engine to continue running while you check the level. If the fluid is checked when the engine is cold, you may get false results indicating the fluid is low. Transmission fluid expands in heat and in order to receive accurate results, it must be under normal operating conditions. Turn on your car, leaving it in park, and let the engine run for a few minutes to warm up.Park your car on a level surface and lift the hood.This can result in slipping and instability. Overfilling transmission fluid can cause the fluid to foam, putting excess pressure on the transmission, and forcing fluid out of the vent or a seal. If you need to add additional fluid, be careful not to overfill the reservoir.
#Check automatic transmission fluid professional
If the fluid is low, it is likely there is a leak and it will need to be found and repaired by a professional right away. Keep in mind many transmission troubles are due to low fluid levels. The transmission fluid dipstick is similar to the oil dipstick, while the oil dipstick measures the level of the car’s engine oil, transmission dipsticks measure the level of transmission fluid in your vehicle. When you check the fluid’s level and condition-and take appropriate measures as necessary-you are giving your transmission fluid the best chance to do these jobs.

I let it idle for a few minutes when I got to work sitting in the parking lot. Once up to temp it sat at 185 and barely moved from there whether I was cruising along at 55mph or stopped at a light.

I just watched the trans temps the other day during my commute. Low temps are almost as bad as high temps for the tranny.Īnd a 60 degree swing from cruising to stopped? If I drive around in my town for a good 20 minutes, it may get up to 160 degrees.įrom what I've read on this subject 100 degrees is WAY low. When I am on the highway (in WI) it stays around 100 degrees. I can tell you for certain (since I installed a tranny temp gauge) that your transmission won't get hot really at all if you are in a cold climate and not in stop and go traffic.
