How Much Transmission Fluid Do I Put in My Car?

The amount of transmission fluid you need to put in your car depends on the make, model, and year of your vehicle. You can find the specific amount of transmission fluid required for your car in your owner’s manual. However, as a general rule of thumb, most cars require between 3 and 6 quarts of transmission fluid.

How to Check Transmission Fluid Level

Before you add transmission fluid to your car, you need to check the fluid level to make sure it is low. To check the transmission fluid level, follow these steps:

1. Park your car on a level surface and set the parking brake.
2. Locate the transmission fluid dipstick. It is usually located near the engine and is labeled with a red or orange handle.
3. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag.
4. Reinsert the dipstick fully into the transmission.
5. Pull out the dipstick again and check the fluid level. The fluid level should be between the “full” and “add” marks on the dipstick.

How to Add Transmission Fluid

If the transmission fluid level is low, you will need to add more fluid. To add transmission fluid, follow these steps:

1. Locate the transmission fluid filler tube. It is usually located near the transmission and is labeled with a red or orange cap.
2. Remove the cap from the filler tube.
3. Using a funnel, add transmission fluid to the filler tube until the fluid level reaches the “full” mark on the dipstick.
4. Replace the cap on the filler tube.

Types of Transmission Fluid

There are different types of transmission fluid available, so it is important to use the correct type for your car. The type of transmission fluid required for your car is specified in your owner’s manual. Here are the three main types of transmission fluid:

• Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is the most common type of transmission fluid. It is used in most cars with automatic transmissions.
• Manual transmission fluid (MTF) is used in cars with manual transmissions.
• Continuously variable transmission fluid (CVTF) is used in cars with continuously variable transmissions (CVTs).

When to Change Transmission Fluid

The transmission fluid in your car should be changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. However, if you drive in severe conditions, such as frequent towing or driving in stop-and-go traffic, you may need to change the transmission fluid more often.

Conclusion

Checking and changing the transmission fluid in your car is an important part of maintaining your vehicle. By following the steps in this article, you can ensure that your transmission is properly lubricated and functioning properly.