Should You Add Transmission Fluid While the Car Is Running?

Do You Add Transmission Fluid While Car Running?

The Short Answer:

No, you should not add transmission fluid while the car is running.

The Long Answer:

Adding transmission fluid while the car is running can be dangerous. Here are a few reasons why:

• The transmission fluid is hot when the car is running. If you add cold transmission fluid, it can cause the fluid to expand and create pressure inside the transmission, which can lead to a leak.
• The transmission fluid is circulating when the car is running. If you add transmission fluid, it can get into the wrong places and cause problems.
• The transmission fluid level needs to be checked when the car is running, but it should not be added while the car is running.

How to Add Transmission Fluid

If you need to add transmission fluid, follow these steps:

1. Park the car on a level surface.
2. Turn off the engine.
3. Wait a few minutes for the transmission fluid to cool down.
4. Check the transmission fluid level. The fluid level should be between the “full” and “add” marks on the dipstick.
5. If the fluid level is low, add transmission fluid through the dipstick tube. Do not overfill the transmission.
6. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.
7. Recheck the transmission fluid level and add more fluid if necessary.

Conclusion

Adding transmission fluid while the car is running is not a good idea. It can be dangerous and can cause problems with the transmission. If you need to add transmission fluid, follow the steps above to do it safely.