Can You Let a Car Run to Find Transmission Fluid?
Checking the transmission fluid is an important part of maintaining your car. It helps ensure that your transmission is operating properly and that it has
enough fluid to keep it running smoothly. But what if you don’t know how to check the transmission fluid? Can you just let the car run to see if it has
enough fluid?
The Short Answer
No, you should not let your car run to find transmission fluid. This is because the transmission fluid is not circulated when the car
is idling. If you let the car run for a long period of time, the transmission could overheat and sustain damage.
How to Check the Transmission Fluid
The proper way to check the transmission fluid is to:
- Park the car on a level surface.
- Shift the transmission into park.
- Locate the transmission dipstick. It is usually located near the back of the engine.
- Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag.
- Reinsert the dipstick and pull it out again.
- Check the fluid level on the dipstick.
The fluid level should be between the “full” and “low” marks on the dipstick. If the fluid level is low, you will need to add more transmission fluid.
What Happens if You Let Your Car Run Without Transmission Fluid?
If you let your car run without transmission fluid, the transmission could overheat and sustain damage. This could lead to a number of problems, including:
- Slipping gears
- Difficulty shifting gears
- Leaking transmission fluid
- Transmission failure
Conclusion
Checking the transmission fluid is an important part of maintaining your car. If you don’t know how to check the transmission fluid, you should consult
with a qualified mechanic. Do not let your car run to find transmission fluid, as this could damage the transmission.
