How to Check Transmission Fluids

You know the feeling: You’re cruising down U.S. Highway 98 when you suddenly notice your transmission shift gears begin to hesitate. We’ve all been there at one point or another.

What do you do when this happens? Well, before you schedule service and bring your vehicle into our dealership, it’s best to give the transmission fluid a check. Today, the team here at VW of Panama City is here to show you how to check transmission fluids.

Drivers throughout Springfield, Callaway, and Panama City, continue reading to learn how it’s done.

How Your Transmission Works

Before we can dive into the steps required to check the transmission fluid, it’s beneficial to expand a bit on how your vehicle’s transmission operates.

What exactly is the purpose of the transmission? Simply put, the transmission’s job is to ensure the right amount of power is given to the wheels so the car can drive at a certain speed. Transmissions come in two varieties: Manual and automatic. No matter which one is inside of your vehicle, it’s important to ensure they are working properly.

That’s where transmission fluid comes in. Transmission fluid is used by your steering system to keep all its components running smoothly.

Steps to Check Transmission Fluid

Now that we know the basics of transmissions and transmission fluid, it’s time to explore the steps in checking your transmission fluid to determine if it’s in good working order. Here’s how it’s done for an automatic:

1. Pull out the dipstick: Make sure the parking brake is on, then put the gearshift in neutral or park before letting the engine run. Once the engine has warmed up enough, pull out the dipstick from the transmission.
2. Check the fluid: Once you have removed the dipstick, dip the tip of your finger onto the fluid, rubbing it between your fingers. Clean fluid should appear pinkish and clear in color. If it looks too dark, has particles in it, or smells burnt, it’s time to have it checked out and changed by a mechanic.
3. Wipe the dipstick clean: Next step is to clean the dipstick. This can be done by wiping it down with a clean rag.
4. Reinsert the dipstick: Finally, reinsert the dipstick into the transmission and you’re done!

I Checked the Fluid, Now What?

Well, your next course of action all depends on what your fluid check revealed. If it showed a clean transmission, you’re good to keep cruising. However, if it showed signs of wear or dirt, it’s time to schedule a service appointment to have it replaced.

Luckily, the maintenance center at our dealership is just the place! Our professionally trained technicians will work diligently to replace your vehicle’s transmission fluid so you can be safely on your way throughout Springfield, Callaway, and Panama Springs.

Schedule an Appointment with Our Maintenance Center Today

If it’s time you had your vehicle’s transmission fluid, fill out the appointment scheduler here on our website to make an appointment with our service center.

From all of us at VW of Panama City, we look forward to assisting you soon!

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