How to Check Transmission Fluid

How often do you check your transmission fluid? It is crucial to understand how to check your transmission fluid to prevent maintenance issues that can be costly. Take a moment to learn about when and how to check transmission fluid. Then, if you need help with routine maintenance in greater Beaumont, reach out to the service center at Nissan of Silsbee for help.

Checking Transmission Fluid: Step-by-Step Guide

Here is a step-by-step guide to how to check transmission fluid:

1. To check your transmission fluid, the engine needs to be warm. Turn on your ignition for a few minutes before proceeding.
2. Locate the transmission fluid dipstick under the hood of your car. You can find it to the right of the oil dipstick for front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicles. However, we recommend checking your owner’s manual.
3. Insert the dipstick into the reservoir of transmission and pull it out. Get some oil between your fingertips and check to see if the oil is clear with a pink hue. If the fluid is gritty or has a burnt smell, you need a fluid change.
4. Wipe the dipstick with an old rag and insert it back into the reservoir. Pull it out again to check the level of the fluid. If the fluid is below the “Full” marking, you will need to top it off.
5. To add more fluid, use a funnel and carefully pour as not to overfill.

You can always schedule an appointment at Nissan of Silsbee to have us check, diagnose, and change your transmission fluid. We are happy to help Evadale drivers maintain healthy vehicles.

Checking the Fluid in a Sealed Transmission

Not all vehicles in Buna have a dipstick under the hood of their car to check the transmission fluid. Your transmission may be what is known as a “sealed transmission.” However grim that may sound, it does not mean that your transmission fluid is not accessible; there is just no dipstick to measure the fluid levels.

If you suspect you have a sealed transmission, do not attempt to check its fluid, or you may cause damage. Instead, it is best to bring your vehicle to our service center near Beaumont.

When to Check the Fluid in a Sealed Transmission

Why is the transmission sealed? A sealed transmission prevents and limits the amount of transmission fluid from leaking. In the long run, it saves you money. However, a sealed transmission is not as convenient when the fluid needs a replacement. Here are some key red flags to look out for that may indicate an issue with your sealed transmission:

• Strange noises occur when shifting gear.
• There is a hesitation in the gears moving.
• There is a noticeable delay when switching gears while accelerating.

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

For optimal vehicle health, you should check your primary fluids monthly. Fluids to check include; transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and engine oil. Consult your owner’s manual for how often you need to schedule maintenance.

Transmission Fluid Basics

Some may not realize that the transmission is one of the most intricate parts of a vehicle. Therefore, before you check your transmission fluid, we recommend you keep these tips in mind:

• Recent car models, manual transmissions, and automatic transmissions change the transmission. They are not all alike. Therefore, you do not want to add any transmission fluid to your vehicle to prevent damage. Consult your owner’s manual for the correct transmission fluid for your specific model.
• You may need a jack to access the plug beneath your vehicle while checking transmission fluid.
• You need to replace your transmission fluid every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. The frequency depends on your driving habits, type of transmission, and other factors.

Rely on Nissan of Silsbee For All Your Service Needs

Now that you know how often to check your transmission fluid and how to check your transmission fluid, if you find you need help with a fluid change or need other maintenances, reach out to Nissan of Silsbee! Our service specials make taking care of your vehicle quite affordable. In the meantime, take a moment to explore our service tips for other helpful reads, including our overview of how often to rotate your tires!

Service Specials at Nissan of Silsbee