Check Transmission Fluid: Running or Off?

Introduction

Checking your transmission fluid is an important part of maintaining your vehicle. It helps ensure that your transmission is operating properly and that it will last for many years to come. But when is the best time to check your transmission fluid: when the car is running or when it is off?

Checking Transmission Fluid When the Car is Running

There are some benefits to checking your transmission fluid when the car is running. First, it allows you to check the fluid level while the transmission is in gear. This can help you to determine if there is any fluid leaking from the transmission.

Second, checking the transmission fluid when the car is running allows you to check the fluid temperature. This can help you to determine if the transmission is overheating.

Checking Transmission Fluid When the Car is Off

There are also some benefits to checking your transmission fluid when the car is off. First, it is easier to check the fluid level when the car is off because you do not have to worry about the fluid moving around.

Second, checking the transmission fluid when the car is off allows you to check the fluid color. This can help you to determine if the fluid is contaminated or if it needs to be replaced.

Which is Better: Checking Transmission Fluid When the Car is Running or Off?

Ultimately, the best time to check your transmission fluid depends on your personal preferences. If you are more concerned about checking the fluid level and temperature, then you may want to check it when the car is running. If you are more concerned about checking the fluid color, then you may want to check it when the car is off.

How to Check Transmission Fluid

Regardless of when you choose to check your transmission fluid, there are a few general steps that you can follow.

• Park the car on a level surface.
• Set the parking brake.
• Locate the transmission dipstick. It is usually located in the engine compartment near the back of the engine.
• Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag.
• Reinsert the dipstick into the transmission and pull it out again.
• Check the fluid level on the dipstick. The fluid level should be between the “FULL” and “ADD” marks.
• Check the fluid color. The fluid should be red or pink in color.
• If the fluid is low, add some transmission fluid to the transmission.
• If the fluid is dirty or dark in color, it may need to be replaced.

Conclusion

Checking your transmission fluid is a simple and important task that can help you to keep your vehicle running smoothly. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can check your transmission fluid quickly and easily.