How to Check Your Transmission Fluid

Checking your transmission fluid on a regular basis will ensure you catch any problems before they become serious for your San Dimas and Rancho Cucamonga travels. Since your transmission is what propels it forward, having the right transmission fluid will keep you moving with ease. Learn more about how to check transmission fluid in your car, and then visit our dealership for your maintenance needs at Mazda of Claremont today!

Checking Transmission Fluid: Step-by-Step Guide 

Here’s how to check transmission fluid in a few simple steps below:

1. Turn the engine on for a few minutes before proceeding, since the engine should be warmed up to properly check the level. Make sure your car is in park before getting out and opening the hood.
2. Find the transmission fluid dipstick. On front-wheel-drive cars, it’s usually located to the right of the oil dipstick. Check your owner’s manual if you’re having trouble finding it.
3. Remove the dipstick and touch the fluid, moving it around between your thumb and forefinger. The fluid should be nearly clear, with a pink hue. If it looks dirty or gives off a burnt smell, take it to a 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, you’ll need to add more.
5. Use a funnel to bring the fluid level up to the right spot. Be sure not to overfill it.

Transmission Fluid: FAQs

When to Check the Fluid in a Sealed Transmission? 

A sealed transmission is used to limit the amount of wasted transmission fluid, but just like any vehicle it will eventually need to be replaced. Since this is sealed, there’s no dipstick to measure the fluid level, so you can count on our service team to check it for you to avoid any issues. Here are some clear indicators it’s time to replace your sealed transmission fluid: 

• 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?

Your transmission fluid should be checked around once a month and while you’re at it, you should make it a habit of checking other parts such as your vehicle’s power steering fluid and engine oil. As always, refer to your owner’s manual for a more specific maintenance schedule and fluid types.

Transmission Fluid Basics

Since your transmission is such a crucial part of your vehicle, here are a couple of important pieces of information to keep in mind when you get your transmission fluid checked:

• Not all transmission fluid is the same, with different types for recent models, manual transmissions, and automatic transmissions. Your owner’s manual will recommend a particular type of transmission fluid.
• Checking the fluid on a manual transmission will usually require a jack to access a plug located beneath the car. For most drivers, a visit to our service center near Rancho Cucamonga is more convenient.
• If your vehicle hesitates before shifting gears, it might be due to low transmission fluid. However, it could be a sign of a more serious problem. Check the fluid level first, but if it’s fine, schedule service with us today.
• You’ll want to replace your transmission fluid every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. The actual mileage depends on your driving habits, type of transmission, and other factors. Check your owner’s manual for a more specific replacement interval.

Get Your Transmission Serviced at Mazda of Claremont 

Now that you know more about how to check transmission fluid, keep your vehicle running in top shape on Upland roads. Schedule your next appointment at Mazda of Claremont and discover more ways to care for your ride with our service tips and tricks. You can even save with our rotating service specials or order OEM parts for sale online from home. 

Service Specials at Mazda of Claremont