When to Check Transmission Fluid
Unless you drive a stick shift, you probably don’t give much thought to the health of your transmission. A good rule of thumb is to check your transmission fluid at least once per year.
At World Ford Pensacola, our team of experienced service pros are committed to helping Pensacola, Crestview, and Fort Walton Beach drivers better understand their vehicle’s needs. Continue reading to learn when to check your transmission fluid and the proactive steps to take to help your car run longer before needing a transmission repair or replacement.
Why is Checking My Transmission Fluid Important?
Next to the engine, your transmission is one of the most important components inside your vehicle. Its main purpose is to transfer power created in the engine to the driveshaft which then turns your wheels. Inside the transmission you’ll find a complex system of gears that rotate at a high level of speed. Transmission fluid is needed to lubricate these moving gears to keep them from wearing down.
If you don’t have the proper fluid level lubricating your transmission’s internal parts, it can lead to:
- Gear slippage
- Overheating
- Hard shifting
- Delayed engagement
Depending on your vehicle and typical driving habits, you should plan to change your vehicle’s transmission fluid every 30,000-60,000 miles. Your owner’s manual is a good resource to consult, or you can always ask a certified automotive technician their professional opinion.
How Do I Check My Transmission Fluid?
If while traveling you notice any of the signs listed above, immediately find a safe place to pull over and check your fluid level. A dashboard light may also appear alerting you of a potential issue. This symbol generally looks like a thermometer inside of a toothed-gear and lights up when your transmission is close to overheating.
Once you’re parked in a safe location, open the hood with the engine still running and do the following:
- Remove the Dipstick. If you drive a vehicle with rear-wheel drive, the transmission’s dipstick will usually be located towards the back of the engine near the windshield. Front-wheel-drive vehicles normally have the dipstick towards the front near the grille.
- Check the Fluid. Using your index finger and thumb, run your fingers along the dipstick and check the fluid appearance. Clean transmission fluid should have a pink coloring and be free of any odor. If the fluid appears dirty or smells burnt, it should be changed immediately.
- Wipe the Dipstick, Reinsert, and Remove it Again. Check to see if the transmission fluid reaches the “full” line on the dipstick. If it’s short, use a funnel to pour additional fluid into the transmission valve until the line is covered.
Schedule Transmission Repair at World Ford Pensacola
Keeping up with simple routine maintenance is the best way to make sure you can enjoy your vehicle for years to come. If you’re a driver near Pensacola, Crestview, or Fort Walton Beach in need of transmission service, simply stop into our service center or go online to schedule an appointment today!
