DIY: How To Check Your Transmission Fluid

Your transmission is responsible for directing power from your vehicle’s engine to the drivetrain. It’s a vital component to ensuring that you enjoy a smooth Wallingford drive. However, if you ignore the signs that you need transmission fluid, it could lead to major transmission damage.

Regularly checking your transmission fluid can help ensure that you catch something before it causes more damage by getting too low or worn down. But what if you don’t know how to check your transmission fluid? You’re in luck because the service experts from Hamden Chevrolet will help you learn how to check your transmission fluid and look for the following items:

• Signs of low transmission fluid
• Signs your transmission is going out
• Signs you need transmission fluid

What Are the Common Signs of a Failing Transmission?

While you should be checking your transmission fluid every month or so, keep in mind that can change depending on your specific make or model. Additionally, there are some signs that may show your transmission is going out or needs to be checked. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms while driving on Milford roads, it’s a good idea to have your transmission fluid inspected:

• Unusual noises during gear changes
• Hesitation to change gears
• Gear shift delays
• Abnormal transmission burning smells

All of these indications may also be signs that your transmission fluid is low. We suggest you schedule a service appointment if you notice any of these symptoms.

How To Check Your Transmission Fluid

When you notice signs of low transmission fluid or any other abnormalities, we suggest you have it checked. While you’re more than welcome to visit our service center for assistance, we understand that some drivers may prefer to check their transmission fluid in their own North Haven garage. With that being said, here are the steps to checking your transmission fluid:

1. Ensure your engine has been properly warmed before beginning.
2. Turn your vehicle off, put it in park, and open the hood.
3. Locate the transmission fluid dipstick. This can vary depending on your specific car so be sure to reference your owner’s manual.
4. Remove the dipstick and take note of the transmission fluid color and texture by moving iit between your fingers.
5. If you notice it feels dirty, gives off a burnt smell, or is any color other than a clear pink hue, you may have to get service immediately.
6. Wipe the dipstick, reinsert it back into the tube, and remove it again. This time, paying attention to the fluid level.
7. Add more transmission fluid if needed!

Be sure to work with our service technicians if you need any help.

Additional Transmission Fluid Tips

There are plenty of nuances to be aware of when you’re checking your transmission fluid. Let’s take a look at some additional transmission fluid tips:

• If you’re not finding a transmission fluid dipstick, your vehicle could have a sealed transmission. There are many advantages to a sealed transmission, but the downside is that you won’t be able to check it on your own. If you have a sealed transmission, bring it to a trusted service center to have the fluid inspected.
• There are various different kinds of transmission fluid so make sure you use the correct one if you need to add more.
• Manual transmissions will likely have transmission fluid that needs to be regularly inspected as well.
• While the recommended transmission fluid replacement interval is generally anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000 miles, this can change depending on a number of factors. From driving habits, vehicle make, and more, it’s a good idea to leave it to the professionals if you’re unsure about your transmission fluid replacement interval.

Learn More Service Tips Today With Hamden Chevrolet!

We look forward to helping you learn more about transmission maintenance at Hamden Chevrolet. Whether you have questions, want to learn how long an oil change takes, or you’re in dire need of assistance, feel free to contact us online or stop by at our Hamden service center. We can’t wait to work with you!