Whether you have an automatic transmission or a manual, your car’s transmission fluid helps to lubricate the gears and shafts present within a transmission so that they shift smoothly and without issues. It’s good to know where to check your transmission fluid. First off, there is where to check transmission fluid in a car with automatic transmission.
Transmission Fluid in Automatics
In a car with an automatic transmission, if you crack the hood, the place to check your car’s transmission fluid is usually located in the center of the engine or towards the passenger cabin. It will even be labeled as transmission fluid, so you just have to look for it.
If you have a manual transmission, and even in the 21st century, there are still cars that have them, your transmission fluid has to be checked in a different location. Manual transmission fluid has to be checked through the fill plug, right at the transmission case, usually by a transmission repair shop.
Pull out the dipstick and look at the level of transmission fluid. Unlike oil, which does burn off with use, the level of transmission fluid should remain the same. If it is low, it is most likely due to a leak somewhere. If you have a leak, don’t panic. Sometimes it can be as simple as a seal that’s cracked, however, it could be something more serious. When in doubt get it into a transmission shop as quickly as you can. It isn’t just how much transmission fluid is in your car, also be aware of both the color and the smell of the transmission fluid when you check it.
As it is the lifeblood of your transmission, automatic transmission is appropriately red colored, and has an odd sweet smell. If it is a dark color or smells like its burnt, it is time to change your transmission fluid. Transmission fluid needs to be clear, and clean, or otherwise, your car’s gears can gum up. If it gets too bad, the gears can even shatter. So remember, how much your repair job costs also depends on the preventative maintenance steps you take. For other more demanding transmission repair, get it into a shop.
Give Trail Transmission a call for all of your transmission service needs. We have been in business since 1990.
Trail Transmission
11240 East Apache Trail
Apache Junction, AZ 85120
(480) 986-7367
trailtransmission.com
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