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Can You Add Transmission Fluid While the Car Is Hot?
No, you should not add transmission fluid while the car is hot. The transmission fluid level should be checked with the engine running and the transmission in neutral, but the fluid should be added when the engine is cool.
Why You Shouldn’t Add Transmission Fluid While the Car Is Hot
There are a few reasons why you shouldn’t add transmission fluid while the car is hot:
- The transmission fluid may expand when it gets hot. If you add fluid to a hot transmission, the fluid may expand and cause the transmission to overflow.
- The transmission fluid may not circulate properly when the car is hot. When the transmission is hot, the fluid may not circulate properly, which can lead to damage to the transmission.
- You could burn yourself. The transmission fluid is very hot when the car is running. If you add fluid to a hot transmission, you could burn yourself.
How to Add Transmission Fluid
To add transmission fluid, follow these steps:
- Park the car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Allow the engine to cool down for at least 30 minutes.
- Locate the transmission dipstick. The dipstick is usually located on the side of the transmission. It may be red or yellow and have a handle.
- Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag.
- Reinsert the dipstick into the transmission and pull it out again. The fluid level should be between the “MIN” and “MAX” marks on the dipstick.
- If the fluid level is below the “MIN” mark, add fluid slowly through the dipstick tube. Do not overfill the transmission.
- Reinsert the dipstick and check the fluid level again. Repeat steps 5 and 6 until the fluid level is between the “MIN” and “MAX” marks.
Tips for Adding Transmission Fluid
- Use the correct type of transmission fluid. The type of fluid required for your transmission will be specified in your owner’s manual.
- Add fluid slowly. Do not overfill the transmission.
- Check the fluid level regularly. The fluid level should be checked every few months or more often if you are experiencing any transmission problems.
Conclusion
Adding transmission fluid while the car is hot can be dangerous and can damage your transmission. Always allow the engine to cool down before adding fluid.
