![]() Look for hash marks, lines or words to indicate the level. With the dipstick out, identify where the fluid reaches. Likely, there’s fluid that’s splashed onto the dipstick from when it was running or driving previously, which can create a false reading. Your first action is to wipe off the dipstick and reinsert it into the tube. ![]() Next, with a shop towel or rag in hand, pull the dipstick out of the tube. ![]() Generally, a rear-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive vehicle will have its dipstick near the firewall, while front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive vehicles will have it on the driver’s side closer to the front. Sometimes it’s tough to see, nestled between hoses or ducts in the engine bay. It might have an image of a gear on it, and it could be black, orange or red. Under the hood, look for a handle or finger loop to pull out located on the opposite side of the engine from the belts. The best way to check transmission fluid is with the dipstick that comes with the vehicle. It’s often stamped into the flexible metal, or the owner’s manual will have that info too. If you’re unsure if your engine should be running or not, check the dipstick. If you check the fluid when it’s cold and might’ve drained back into the pan, your reading won’t be as spot on as it could be. For most vehicles, the fluid needs to circulate to fill all the small voids in the transmission to get an accurate reading, and the fluid also expands as it heats up. The fluid in a transmission likely won’t read accurately if your car isn’t on a flat area, much like tilting a half-full water glass makes it look higher on one side and lower on the other. Park the car on a level surfaceįind a flat, level surface to park your car and set the parking brake. There are a few exceptions that you’ll need to watch for as well. Most drivers know how to check the engine oil level and condition, and it’s very similar for most cars to check the transmission fluid. Here’s what you need to know including the best way to check transmission oil and what to do if it’s low. Keeping it healthy is key, which is why it’s important to know how to check transmission fluid.Īvoid potentially costly and frustrating repairs by maintaining your transmission according to the carmaker’s recommendations and standards. This case containing gears, clutches, electrical parts and fluid is more intricate and much less understood than an engine, and few DIYers will try a repair themselves. You’re not going anywhere if your car’s engine is toast, and the same goes for the transmission.
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