Do You Check Transmission Fluid with the Car On?

The Answer is Yes and No

There is no definitive answer to the question of whether you should check transmission fluid with the car on or off. Some manufacturers recommend checking the fluid with the engine running, while others recommend checking it with the engine off. However, there are some general guidelines that you can follow to ensure that you are checking the fluid correctly.

Checking the Fluid with the Engine Off

If you are checking the transmission fluid with the engine off, you should first make sure that the car is parked on a level surface. Then, open the hood and locate the transmission dipstick. The dipstick will usually be located near the back of the engine, and it will have a red or orange handle. Pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean with a rag or paper towel. Then, reinsert the dipstick into the transmission and pull it out again. The fluid level should be between the two marks on the dipstick.

Checking the Fluid with the Engine Running

If you are checking the transmission fluid with the engine running, you should first start the car and let it idle for a few minutes. Then, put the car in park and set the parking brake. Open the hood and locate the transmission dipstick. Pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean with a rag or paper towel. Then, reinsert the dipstick into the transmission and pull it out again. The fluid level should be between the two marks on the dipstick.

Which Method is Better?

There is no real advantage to checking the transmission fluid with the engine running or off. However, some people believe that checking the fluid with the engine running provides a more accurate reading. This is because the transmission fluid is circulating when the engine is running, and this can help to ensure that the fluid level is correct.

Tips for Checking the Transmission Fluid

• Always check the transmission fluid on a level surface.
• Make sure that the car is in park and the parking brake is set.
• Wipe the dipstick clean with a rag or paper towel before reinserting it into the transmission.
• Check the fluid level between the two marks on the dipstick.
• If the fluid level is low, add fluid until it reaches the correct level.

Conclusion

Checking the transmission fluid is an important part of maintaining your car. By following the guidelines above, you can ensure that you are checking the fluid correctly and that your transmission is running properly.