Car On or Off to Check Transmission Fluid

Introduction

Checking your transmission fluid is an important part of regular car maintenance. But when should you check it: with the car on or off? The answer depends on the type of transmission you have.

For Manual Transmissions

If you have a manual transmission, you should check the fluid with the car off. This is because the fluid level in a manual transmission can change when the car is running, and checking it with the car on could give you an inaccurate reading.

To check the fluid level in a manual transmission, follow these steps:

1. Park the car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Open the hood and locate the transmission dipstick. It is usually located near the back of the engine, and it will have a red or orange handle.
3. Pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean with a rag.
4. Reinsert the dipstick all the way into the transmission and then pull it out again.
5. Check the fluid level on the dipstick. It should be between the “min” and “max” marks.

For Automatic Transmissions

If you have an automatic transmission, you should check the fluid with the car running. This is because the fluid level in an automatic transmission can change when the car is running, and checking it with the car off could give you an inaccurate reading.

To check the fluid level in an automatic transmission, follow these steps:

1. Park the car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Start the car and let it idle for a few minutes.
3. Open the hood and locate the transmission dipstick. It is usually located near the back of the engine, and it will have a red or orange handle.
4. Pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean with a rag.
5. Reinsert the dipstick all the way into the transmission and then pull it out again.
6. Check the fluid level on the dipstick. It should be between the “min” and “max” marks.

Checking the Fluid Condition

In addition to checking the fluid level, you should also check the fluid condition. The fluid should be a bright red or pink color. If it is dark brown or black, it may be time to change the fluid.

You can also check the fluid condition by smelling it. If the fluid smells burnt, it is definitely time to change it.

Conclusion

Checking your transmission fluid is an important part of regular car maintenance. By following the steps outlined above, you can check the fluid level and condition in both manual and automatic transmissions.