How to Check Transmission Fluid

Ford TransmissionOne of the best ways to make sure your vehicle stays in the best condition possible is to do regular at-home checkups. One thing you can easily check on from the comfort of your own garage or driveway is your transmission fluid.

In this step-by-step guide, we at Rountree Ford will walk you through the easy process of checking your transmission fluid at home. Drivers in the areas of Shreveport, Bossier City, and Stonewall should read ahead to learn more!

Step-by-Step Instructions

You can check your transmission fluid anywhere that you have a flat surface and the right tools. Follow these easy step-by-step instructions to check your transmission fluid right at home:

  1. Park your vehicle on a level surface.
  2. Get inside your vehicle, start the engine, and let it run for a few minutes.
  3. Shift through all the different gears to get the transmission warmed up.
  4. Shift back into park and put on the parking brake.
  5. Open the front hood of the vehicle and secure it.
  6. Locate the transmission drumstick, unscrew it, and remove it entirely.
  7. Use a clean rag or paper towel to completely clean off the transmission dipstick of all transmission fluid.
  8. Put the transmission dipstick the whole way back into the transmission reservoir tube.
  9. Carefully remove the transmission dipstick again.
  10. Examine where the transmission fluid level falls on the transmission dipstick.

The results of your transmission fluid check-in will depend on where the fluid line falls. It should be between the minimum (“MIN”) and maximum (“MAX”) fluid lines. If it is below or above, you need to have your transmission serviced.

Extra Transmission Fluid Safety Tips

When checking your transmission fluid, it’s essential to make your safety a top priority. When checking your transmission oil, take advantage of these helpful safety tips:

  • The transmission check-up process requires turning the vehicle on, which can make elements under the hood very hot. Proceed with caution and always assume something could be hot before you touch it.
  • Always check your transmission fluid in an area with air flow. You should not check your transmission fluid in a closed garage or other restricted area because the vehicle will be running, which can create a dangerous amount of carbon monoxide for a closed space.
  • While you’re checking the level of your transmission fluid, you also should check the condition of your transmission fluid. Your transmission fluid should be pinkish in color, smooth, and virtually odorless. It should not be gritty or have a burnt chemical smell to it.

Need Some Help with Your Transmission Fluid?

We at Rountree Ford hope this guide gave you all the information you were looking for and have successfully completed your at-home transmission fluid checkup. If you still have questions or need some help, don’t hesitate to give us a call at our service center. Drivers in Shreveport, Bossier City, and Stonewall can also schedule a service appointment anytime through our website!

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