How Much Transmission Fluid Should I Put in My Car?

The amount of transmission fluid you need to put in your car depends on a few factors, including the make and model of your car, the type of transmission you have, and whether or not you’re doing a complete fluid change.

Checking Your Transmission Fluid Level

Before you add any transmission fluid, it’s important to check the level of the fluid that’s already in your car. To do this, you’ll need to locate the transmission dipstick. The dipstick is usually located near the front of the engine, and it will have a red or orange handle.

1. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag.
2. Reinsert the dipstick into the transmission and pull it out again.
3. Check the level of the fluid on the dipstick. The fluid should be between the “full” and “add” marks on the dipstick.

Adding Transmission Fluid

If the transmission fluid level is low, you’ll need to add more fluid. To do this, you’ll need a funnel and a quart of transmission fluid. The type of transmission fluid you need will depend on the make and model of your car. You can find the recommended transmission fluid type in your owner’s manual.

1. Locate the transmission fluid fill plug. The fill plug is usually located on the side of the transmission.
2. Remove the fill plug and insert the funnel into the hole.
3. Add transmission fluid to the funnel until the fluid level reaches the “full” mark on the dipstick.
4. Replace the fill plug and tighten it securely.

Complete Fluid Change

If you’re doing a complete fluid change, you’ll need to drain the old fluid from the transmission before adding new fluid. To do this, you’ll need a drain pan and a wrench.

1. Locate the transmission drain plug. The drain plug is usually located on the bottom of the transmission.
2. Place the drain pan under the drain plug and loosen the plug with the wrench.
3. Allow the old fluid to drain out of the transmission.
4. Replace the drain plug and tighten it securely.
5. Follow the steps above to add new transmission fluid.

Tips

• Always check your owner’s manual for the recommended transmission fluid type and capacity.
• Never overfill the transmission with fluid.
• If you’re not comfortable adding transmission fluid yourself, you can take your car to a mechanic to have it done.