Knowing how to check the transmission fluid of your car can be very beneficial to extending the life of your engine and to heading off any potential problems with your car's transmission. Taking your car to a mechanic who is an expert when it comes to transmissions is the best option, but being able to check your car's transmission fluid on your own is probably the best maintenance that you can do for your transmission.
The first thing to do at home is to read your owner's manual to see where your car's fluid reservoir is located. The vehicle's manufacturer will also recommend whether you should check the fluid level with the engine running or off. Park your car on a level surface and set the parking brake.
The next step is to remove the dipstick from the top of the reservoir and make sure to check the fluid level on both sides of the stick. The dipstick has a line that indicates whether the fluid is full or not. Make sure that you repeat this process to ensure an accurate reading.
When checking your car's transmission fluid, you also need to take notice of its color. Newer fluid is usually bright or dark red, and you can see through it. The fluid tends to darken as it ages, but, if your fluid looks dirty, it might be time to take it to a mechanic for a more extensive assessment.
What else should you check?
Checking your own transmission fluid is something you can do a home as part of your "DIY" maintenance. But, it's always a good idea to have regular maintenance on your car done by an expert. If you live in the San Diego area, TransMasters Transmissions and Auto Care, Located in Miramar, is considered to be one of the best auto repair shops.
In addition to offering transmission, engine, and brake repair, we offer regular maintenance servicing for your car. Our regular maintenance checklist includes:
- Tune-ups
- Oil, lube and service on air and fuel filters
- Fuel injection cleaning and servicing
- Fluid flushes
- Heating and air conditioning servicing
- Checking the tire pressure
Our mechanics are all ASE-certified and are experts at keeping your car in tip-top shape by performing regularly scheduled as well as factory scheduled maintenance. They'll also provide you with the best tips for maintaining your car because our goal at TransMasters is to provide 100% customer satisfaction.
Getting a complete tune-up
From the newest vehicles on the market today to older car models, whether you have an automatic or manual transmission, TransMasters should be your go-to repair shop for complete tune-ups and servicing for your car. We've been providing our customers with reliable and dependable repair and service since we first opened our doors in 1989.
Visit our website for a complete list of our services and the car models that we service. While you're there, take a few minutes to read some of the testimonials from our satisfied clientele.