How to Check Your Transmission Fluid

Learning how to check your transmission fluid on a regular basis is important to avoid future maintenance issues before they become serious. Learn how to check your own transmission fluid, or feel free to contact our service department if you’re in need of assistance. Our trained technicians will help you keep your vehicle in great working condition. Schedule an appointment today!

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Checking Your Own Transmission Fluid

To check your transmission fluid levels at home, simply follow these steps:

1. Turn the car on. The engine should be warmed up to check the level.
2. Find the transmission fluid dipstick. On front-wheel drive cars, it’s usually located to the right of the oil dipstick. Check your owner’s manual if you’re having trouble finding it.
3. Remove the dipstick and touch the fluid, moving it around between your thumb and forefinger. The fluid should be nearly clear, with a pink hue. If it looks dirty or gives off a burnt smell, take it to a service center for replacement.
4. Use a rag to wipe off the dipstick. Then insert it back into the vehicle. Pull it out again and check the level. If it’s under the “Full” marking, you’ll need to add more.
5. Use a funnel to bring the fluid level up to the right spot. Be sure not to overfill it.

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

It’s recommended you check the main fluid levels of your vehicle monthly. These include your transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and engine oil. Learn more about how to do so with us at Towne Mazda and you can check from the comfort of your home. As always, you can consult your owner’s manual for a more specific maintenance schedule.

Transmission Fluid Basics

Your transmission is one of the most complex parts of your vehicle. Before you check your transmission fluid, explore these tips:

• Not all transmission fluid is the same between manual transmissions and automatic transmissions. Check your owner’s manual to ensure you’re using the right kind for your vehicle.
• Checking the fluid on a manual transmission will usually require a jack to access a plug located beneath the car. For most drivers, a visit to our service center near Hamburg is more convenient.
• If your vehicle hesitates before shifting gears, it might be due to low transmission fluid. If you check the levels and they seem fine, this could be a sign of a more serious issue and you’ll want to schedule a service appointment soon.
• You’ll want to replace your transmission fluid every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. The actual amount depends on your driving habits, type of transmission, and other factors. Check your owner’s manual for a more specific replacement interval.

Learn More About How to Check Your Transmission Fluid at Towne Mazda

Checking your transmission fluid at home can be tricky and if you’re not sure where to look or how to top off the fluids, contact our service department! Our Mazda service technicians will help walk you through the process or even check for you when you visit! Contact Towne Mazda to hear about our service specials, learn about the Mazda3 tire sizes, and schedule an appointment.