How to Check Automatic Transmission Oil
Automatic transmission oil could be the life or death of your car's transmission. If not caught in time, an over- or under-filled transmission will cause drivability problems and ruin internal transmission parts. Yet a quick check under the hood and underside of the car may keep you safe on the road, save your transmission and save you hundreds of dollars. Follow these steps to add oil transmission.
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Instructions
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Make sure the car has been driven for about 20 miles just before checking the transmission oil to allow the oil to warm up to operating temperature and expand.
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Park the vehicle in a level surface and apply the parking brakes.
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Turn off the engine and open the hood.
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Locate the transmission oil dipstick around the engine compartment. Most dipsticks come equipped with a handle marked “Transmission Oil.”
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Start the engine and, while depressing and holding the brake pedal, move the shift selector down and up through every gear until you are back at "Park." Let the engine idle.
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Pull the dipstick, wipe off the oil from the tip and insert the dipstick back into the tube until it hits the stop at the handle.
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Pull up the dipstick again and read the oil level close to the tip of the dipstick. The oil level should be between the bottom and top of the crisscross area or “Add” and “Full” marks. If the oil is at the bottom of the mark, add a quart of the recommended transmission oil for your car through the dipstick tube using a small funnel.
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Wipe the oil from the dipstick with a piece of white paper towel and take a close look at the oil spot on the paper. Normal transmission oil has a reddish and transparent color to it. If the oil looks black or dark brown and smells burned, you may need to change the transmission oil or some internal transmission components might be experiencing abnormal friction. If you notice a white reddish color, coolant might be leaking into the transmission lines. If you suspect any of these problems, take your car to an auto shop for further inspection.
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Look closely around the transmission for signs of oil leaks. Raise the front of the car with a jack and support it safely on a jack stand. If necessary, use a flashlight to check the transmission underside and lines for possible leaks. If you suspect a leak, take it to an auto shop for further inspection.
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Tips & Warnings
Consult your vehicle service manual for the recommended transmission oil type for your car, changing intervals and to locate parts and components. You can buy a service manual at most auto parts stores or consult one for free at most public libraries.
Check the transmission oil level every month to detect early problems before it becomes too serious.
Always maintain the correct oil level in the transmission. Low or high levels may allow air to enter the system and cause abnormal mechanical friction and upset normal gear shift operation.
