How to Check Transmission Fluid

How often do you check your transmission fluid? You might be wondering if your transmission fluid is a little low, but maybe you don’t know how to properly check it. Luckily, you don’t have to be an ace mechanic as the process is pretty simple. Learn how to check your transmission fluid with the service center at Tom Peacock Nissan so you can get back on the The Woodlands roads in no time. 

Transmission Fluid Tips

Transmission fluid is what moves your car forward, so it’s a vital component and necessary to keep you driving smoothly on the Spring roads. Before checking the transmission fluid in your vehicle, here are some helpful tips to know: 

• Different vehicles require different types of transmission fluid, so check your owner’s manual to see what kind of transmission fluid your vehicle requires. 
• If you have a manual transmission in your vehicle, then you will probably need a jack to access the plug underneath your vehicle. 
• Low transmission fluid can cause your vehicle to hesitate when shifting gears. 
• Generally, you’ll want to replace your transmission fluid around every 50,000-100,000 miles, but check your owner’s manual for a more specific number for your vehicle. 

How to Check Your Transmission Fluid Guide

If you’re wondering how to check transmission fluid, then simply follow these steps: 

1. Turn on the engine to warm up your vehicle for a few minutes, and then put your car in park. 
2. Open up the hood and locate the transmission fluid dipstick. If you’re having trouble finding it, consult your owner’s manual. 
3. Once you find the dipstick, remove it and touch the fluid to get a look at it. It should look clear with a little pink to it. If it looks dirty or smells burnt, then it needs to be replaced. 
4. Wipe off the rag with a dipstick and insert the stick back into the vehicle. Then, pull the dipstick back out and check the level. If it’s below the “full” marker, then you’ll need to add more fluid to your vehicle. 
5. To add more fluid, use a funnel to bring the fluid level up to the appropriate level, and try not to overfill. 

How Often Do I Check My Transmission Fluid?

You should try to check your transmission fluid at least once a month. In fact, you should try to check all of your main vehicle fluids once a month to ensure that your vehicle is in proper condition. Now sure how often to check your transmission fluid for your specific vehicle? If you want a more precise number of when to check your transmission fluid, consult your owner’s manual. 

What About a Sealed Transmission?

If you don’t see a dipstick underneath your hood when checking the transmission fluid, then you probably have a sealed transmission. If your vehicle has a sealed transmission, then you should visit your local Conroe service center as it requires specific tools to check. Sealed transmissions are designed to minimize transmission fluid waste, which saves money in the long run. Even so, you’ll still need to have your transmission fluid replaced. If you have a sealed transmission, keep an eye out for the following signs: 

• Gears hesitate before changing
• Delay in gear shift during acceleration
• Strange noises when gears change

If it’s time for you to get your transmission fluid replaced, schedule a visit with the service team at Tom Peacock Nissan for quick and easy service. 

Service Your Transmission Fluid at Tom Peacock Nissan

Now that you know how to check your transmission fluid, you can take the necessary steps to have your transmission fluid replaced at Tom Peacock Nissan. Contact us to set up a visit to our service center in Houston, and take advantage of our ongoing service specials.