Does the Car Need to Be Running to Check Transmission Fluid?

Checking your transmission fluid is an important part of regular car maintenance. But do you need to have the car running to check it? The answer depends on the type of transmission you have.

Manual Transmissions

If you have a manual transmission, it is not necessary to have the car running to check the transmission fluid. The fluid level can be checked with the engine off.

1. Locate the transmission fluid dipstick. It is usually located near the back of the engine, towards the firewall. The dipstick will have a handle and a loop of wire at the end.
2. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag or paper towel.
3. Reinsert the dipstick into the transmission and push it all the way in.
4. Pull the dipstick out again and check the fluid level. The fluid level should be between the “min” and “max” marks on the dipstick.
5. If the fluid level is low, add fluid until it reaches the “max” mark.

Automatic Transmissions

If you have an automatic transmission, it is necessary to have the car running to check the transmission fluid. This is because the transmission fluid is circulated by the transmission pump, which only operates when the engine is running.

1. Start the car and let it idle.
2. Locate the transmission fluid dipstick. It is usually located near the front of the engine, near the radiator.
3. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag or paper towel.
4. Reinsert the dipstick into the transmission and push it all the way in.
5. Pull the dipstick out again and check the fluid level. The fluid level should be between the “min” and “max” marks on the dipstick.
6. If the fluid level is low, add fluid until it reaches the “max” mark.

Tips for Checking Transmission Fluid

• Check the transmission fluid regularly, according to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule.
• Use the correct type of transmission fluid for your vehicle.
• If you are not comfortable checking the transmission fluid yourself, you can have it done at a mechanic’s shop.

Conclusion

Whether or not you need to have the car running to check the transmission fluid depends on the type of transmission you have. If you have a manual transmission, you can check the fluid level with the engine off. If you have an automatic transmission, you will need to have the car running to check the fluid level.