Check Transmission Fluid: Car Running or Off?

Introduction

Checking your transmission fluid is an important part of maintaining your vehicle. It helps ensure that your transmission is running smoothly and efficiently. But when it comes to checking the fluid, there is some debate about whether you should do it with the car running or off.

In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of checking transmission fluid with the car running or off. We will also provide a step-by-step guide on how to check the fluid on your own.

Car Running

Pros

1. More accurate reading. When the car is running, the transmission fluid is circulating through the system. This means that you will get a more accurate reading of the fluid level.
2. Easier to check. With the car running, the fluid will be at operating temperature. This makes it easier to check the fluid level, as the fluid will be more fluid.

Cons

1. Can be dangerous. Checking the transmission fluid with the car running can be dangerous, as you could get burned by the hot fluid.
2. Can damage the transmission. If you do not check the fluid level correctly, you could damage the transmission.

Car Off

Pros

1. Safer. Checking the transmission fluid with the car off is safer, as there is no risk of getting burned by the hot fluid.
2. Easier. With the car off, the fluid will be cooler and less fluid, making it easier to check the fluid level.

Cons

1. Less accurate reading. When the car is off, the transmission fluid is not circulating through the system. This means that you may not get an accurate reading of the fluid level.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision of whether to check your transmission fluid with the car running or off is up to you. However, we recommend checking the fluid with the car off, as it is safer and easier. If you do decide to check the fluid with the car running, be sure to take precautions to avoid getting burned.

Step-by-Step Guide to Checking Transmission Fluid

1. Park the car on a level surface.
2. Turn off the engine.
3. Open the hood.
4. Locate the transmission dipstick. The dipstick is usually located near the back of the engine, on the driver’s side.
5. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag.
6. Reinsert the dipstick into the transmission.
7. Pull out the dipstick again and check the fluid level. The fluid level should be between the “full” and “add” marks on the dipstick.
8. If the fluid level is low, add fluid until it reaches the “full” mark.
9. Reinsert the dipstick and tighten it.
10. Close the hood.

Checking your transmission fluid is a simple and important maintenance task that you can do yourself. By following these steps, you can ensure that your transmission is running smoothly and efficiently.