How to Check Transmission Fluid

Learning how to check your transmission fluid isn’t difficult, and the process itself only takes a few minutes. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Start by turning the car on. You can’t get an accurate read on your transmission fluid unless the transmission is warm.
2. Locate the transmission fluid dipstick. It’s almost always near the oil dipstick, so you shouldn’t have any trouble. If you run into difficulties, just check your owner’s manual.
3. Remove the dipstick, and use your fingers to test the consistency of the fluid. It should be pink to light red in tone. If it’s especially viscous, dirty, or off-colored, it’s time for a change. The same is true if the fluid gives off a burnt smell.
4. Now it’s time to check your transmission fluid level. Clean off the dipstick with a rag and reinsert it. Then, draw it out once more. If it’s below the “Full” line, you’ll need to add more.
5. Carefully, use a funnel to bring the transmission fluid back to the proper level. Work slowly, and if you’re adding a lot of fluid, don’t be afraid to stop and see where you’re at.

Have any questions? Contact our Monroeville VW service center for more information, or to speak with an expert.

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

You’ve seen how easy it is to check your transmission fluid and get back on the roads near Millville, but how often do you check your transmission fluid in day-to-day life? You’ll want to take a look at your levels at least once a month, and of course, there’s no harm in doing so more often. As always, you can check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for model-specific recommendations.

Every 50,000 to 100,000 miles, you’ll want to replace all of your transmission fluid with new product, even if your levels are looking good!

Transmission Fluid Basics

Checking your transmission fluid is pretty simple, but your transmission might be one of the most complex components in your vehicle! Here are a few important things to keep in mind as you care for your car or SUV:

• There are many different types of transmission fluid, so make sure to check your owner’s manual before you pick up a generic option.
• If you drive a vehicle with a manual transmission, you may need to use a jack to access a plug located beneath the car. Don’t feel like breaking out the heavy gear? Schedule service with us!
• One of the signs of low transmission fluid is a delay in between gears. However, this could also be a sign of a problem with the transmission itself. Proceed carefully, and have an expert take a look.

Learn More About How to Check Transmission Fluid at Volkswagen of Salem County

Volkswagen of Salem County is here to help with all of your VW maintenance needs. We’re happy to teach our friends and neighbors how to perform VW maintenance at their homes near Mullica Hill or Wilmington, DE, but we also offer rotating service specials so you can get the work you need, for less!

Find out what else we can offer by reaching out today, or learn how to often to replace your car battery.

Service Specials at Volkswagen of Salem County

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