How to Check Transmission Fluid

Whether your truck’s engine is paired with an Aisin or an Allison transmission, learning how to check transmission fluid is a valuable skill for any Madison or Chicago-area driver. Get the details on how to check transmission fluid in the guide below, and feel free to contact us at Badger Truck & Auto Group if you have any further questions!

Guide To Checking Transmission Fluid

It’s critical to check your transmission fluid on a regular basis to make sure your ride is running properly. Let’s check out how to check transmission fluid step-by-step:

1. Turn the vehicle on for a little while prior to checking the transmission fluid. This is because the engine should be properly warmed up prior to checking the fluid level. Be sure to put the vehicle in park before getting out and opening up the hood.
2. Locate the transmission fluid dipstick. Be sure to consult your owner’s manual if you’re having issues finding it.
3. Remove the dipstick and inspect the quality of the fluid by moving it between your thumb and forefinger. Check that it is clear with a pink hue and that it’s not contaminated by small particles and debris. If the fluid is dark, dirty, or smells burnt, it’s time to replace it!
4. Grab a rag and wipe the dipstick. Then, place it back into the reservoir and pull it out again. If the fluid level meets the “full” marking, you’re good to go! If it’s under, add more fluid.
5. Use a funnel to bring the fluid level up to the right spot, making sure to not overfill the reservoir.

Transmission Fluid: FAQs

How Do You Know When to Check the Fluid in a Sealed Transmission?

If you have a sealed transmission, it’s designed to limit the level of fluid that is wasted; however, it still needs to be replaced. Because the reservoir is sealed, there is no dipstick—which makes it more difficult to check the level of fluid. Therefore, it’s best to bring the vehicle to our service center and let us check it out for you. How do you know when it’s time to change the fluid in a sealed transmission? Here’s what to look out for:

• 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?

So, how often should you check your transmission fluid? You should check your transmission fluid once every month. While you’re checking the transmission fluid, it’s recommended that you check the level of other automotive fluids such as the power steering fluid and motor oil. You should always refer to your owner’s manual for more exact maintenance intervals.

Transmission Fluid Basics

Your transmission fluid is critical to the performance of your transmission and vehicle as a whole, therefore, it’s best to keep the following in mind when checking our transmission fluid:

• There are different types of transmission fluids for different types of transmissions. Therefore, it’s best to check your owner’s manual to be sure.
• You’ll need a jack access plug located beneath the vehicle if you have a manual transmission. It’s often best to just head over to our Milwaukee service center to have this done.
• If you find that your vehicle hesitates when shifting, you might not have enough transmission fluid. However, it could point to a bigger issue, so it’s best to let our service team take a look.
• Transmission fluid should be changed every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. However, this can depend on your driving habits.

Service Your Transmission at Badger Truck & Auto Group Today

Now that you know more about how to check transmission fluid come visit Badger Truck & Auto Group for more information today! Questions about the right fluid type for your dual-clutch transmission? We’re here to help—schedule service today, and take advantage of our service tips and tricks to keep your vehicle running smoothly around Waukesha.

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