One issue that arises quite often in our transmission repair SLC business, is a customer or someone on the phone asking…”How do I check my transmission fluid?”

Since we’ve answered this one a million times, we’ve put together a brief guide to help you accomplish this important maintenance the right way.

First, you’ll want to be sure to perform the check with the engine RUNNING.  The one exception to this is any Honda vehicle, which you should run but then shut off before checking.

Next, set the transmission to PARK.  There is one exception – any Dodge vehicle which should be set in neutral with the “E” brake set.

Now, go ahead and pull out the dipstick.  In doubt as to which one is the transmission fluid?  Be sure to check your vehicle’s owners manual!

Alright – next, grab a rag you won’t mind getting dirty, and wipe the dipstick completely clean.

Now, put back the dipstick.  Make sure to insert it fully.  Then, remove it and take a look at what the level/reading is. 

Okay pay attention this is important…now REPEAT what you just did and make sure the reading is the same! 

NOTE:  Make sure the dipstick is displaying the same reading on each side of the dipstick.  The reason to do this is that when the fluid flows back into the pan where the dipstick is taking it’s measurement, sometimes it sloshes around and causes the reading to be higher on one side.  So, if the two sides show different readings, you’ll want to repeat the pull-wipe-reinsert process until they are the same. 

 More great tips that will help you get it right: 

  • If you have put more transmission fluid into the vehicle somewhat recently, then you may want to repeat the check 5-8 times & ensure the reading stays consistent.  now and then fluid will stick to the transmission’s filler tube and cause the first few readings to be inaccurate. 
  •  So when you took the reading, did the fluid level show as being low?  Then unfortunately you DEFINITELY have a leak of some kind.  Transmissions don’t consume or burn away fluid.  If the transmission fluid level is low, it’s because it’s leaking out somewhere.  Bring it to an expert transmission repair mechanic and have it fixed so you can head off a FAR more high-priced repair down the road. 
  • Questions about transmission fluid that are still burning to be answered?  Discover more about transmission fluid on our Salt Lake City transmission repair shoponline. 
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