How to Check Transmission Fluid

Understanding how to check your transmission fluid regularly helps prevent any maintenance issues before they become serious and get costly. Your car’s transmission is what propels it forward, so it’s crucial to stay up-to-date on routine maintenance like checking the transmission fluid. Not sure how to measure the transmission fluid level in your new Buick,GMC or used vehicle? Dale Earnhardt Jr Buick GMC can help! Learn how to check transmission fluid in this handy guide.

Step-by-Step Guide to Checking the Transmission Fluid

Follow these steps to checking your transmission fluid:

1. Turn the engine on for a few minutes before continuing to the next step. The engine should be warmed up to check the level properly. Park the car in a safe spot before getting out and opening the hood.
2. Find the transmission fluid dipstick. On front-wheel-drive cars, you’ll find it to the right of the oil dipstick. Refer to your owner’s manual for assistance locating it.
3. Remove the dipstick and touch the fluid, moving it around between your thumb and forefinger. The liquid should be almost transparent, with a pink hue. If it looks dirty or there’s a burnt smell, bring your vehicle to our Tallahassee service center for replacement.
4. Use a rag to wipe off the dipstick. Then insert it back into the vehicle. Pull it out again and check the level. If it’s under the “Full” marking, more fluid is needed.
5. Use a funnel to bring the fluid level up to the right spot. Be sure not to overfill it.

If you experience any trouble or need help, don’t hesitate to contact our service center for assistance. We work hard to provide service to our customers from Thomasville, GA and beyond.

Checking the Fluid in a Sealed Transmission

Don’t see the dipstick under the hood? That could be because your Buick,GMC car comes equipped with a sealed transmission. What is a sealed transmission? This doesn’t mean that you can’t access it; it just means that there is no dipstick to measure the fluid level with. If your car has a sealed transmission, don’t attempt to check its fluid level; you may damage it as a result. Our service team will happily check the transmission fluid level when you visit us for a service appointment.

When to Check the Fluid in a Sealed Transmission

The sealed transmission works to limit how much transmission fluid gets wasted, saving you money in the long run. Issues can still come up, and the transmission fluid will need to get replaced eventually. Keep an eye out for these red flags that indicate there’s a problem with your sealed transmission:

• You can hear strange noises when the gears change.
• The gears hesitate before changing.
• During acceleration, there’s a noticeable delay when the gears shift.

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

Every month! And it includes checking your transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and engine oil. Always check your owner’s manual for a more specific maintenance schedule.

Transmission Fluid Basics

The transmission is one of your vehicle’s most complex parts. Before checking it, take a look at these helpful tips:

• Not all transmission fluid is the same, as there are different types for recent models, manual transmissions, and automatic transmissions. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual will recommend a particular kind of transmission fluid.
• Checking the fluid on a manual transmission usually requires a jack to access a plug located under the car. This is why visiting our service center near Crawfordville is more convenient for most drivers.
• If your vehicle hesitates before shifting gears, it could be because of low transmission fluid. However, it can also be a sign of a more severe problem. Check the fluid level first, but if it’s okay, schedule service with us. Our factory-trained technicians will see what the issue is.
• You’ll want to replace your transmission fluid every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. However, the actual amount varies based on your driving habits, type of transmission, and other factors. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for a more specific replacement interval.

Visit Dale Earnhardt Jr Buick GMC For All Your Servicing Needs!

At Dale Earnhardt Jr Buick GMC, we can answer any questions that Panama City drivers have about the services we offer or routine maintenance like how to check transmission fluid or how often to have an oil change. Contact our service center today and be sure to explore our service specials for additional savings!