While we suggest having a professional check your transmission fluid with every oil change, you can also perform this for yourself in between visits. If you have an
1. Put your car in Park or Neutral and allow your engine to run (be careful, it will get hot under the hood)
2. Open the hood and locate your transmission fluid dipstick
This will be located toward the rear of the engine for cars with rear-wheel drive. For front-wheel drive cars, it’ll be sticking out of the transaxle, toward the front right corner of the hood.
3. Pull out the dipstick and check the fluid
The liquid should be pinkish and almost clear. If it looks or smells burnt or appears to have particles in it, make an appointment to have a technician change your transmission fluid.
4. Clean the dipstick with a clean rag, reinsert it, and pull it out again
The fluid should reach the “full” line on the dipstick. If it doesn’t, it’s too low and needs to be refilled. You can refill this yourself, but be sure to check your owner’s manual for the proper fluid. You can also make an appointment with a technician. That way, you can be sure you’re using the appropriate product.
If you have a manual transmission, a professional technician will have to check your transmission fluid for you.