Will a Car Start Without Transmission Fluid?
The Short Answer
No, a car will not start without transmission fluid.
What Is Transmission Fluid?
Transmission fluid is a special type of oil that is used to lubricate the gears and other components of a car’s transmission. It helps to reduce friction and wear, and it also helps to keep the transmission cool.
What Happens If a Car Runs Out of Transmission Fluid?
If a car runs out of transmission fluid, it can cause serious damage to the transmission. The gears will start to grind against each other, and the transmission will eventually fail.
Symptoms of Low Transmission Fluid
There are several symptoms that can indicate that a car is low on transmission fluid, including:
- Difficulty shifting gears
- Slipping gears
- Grinding noises when shifting gears
- Leaking transmission fluid
How to Check Transmission Fluid
To check the transmission fluid, follow these steps:
- Park the car on a level surface.
- Turn off the engine and allow it to cool down.
- Locate the transmission fluid dipstick. It is usually located near the front of the engine.
- Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean.
- Reinsert the dipstick into the transmission.
- Pull out the dipstick again and check the fluid level. The fluid should be between the “full” and “add” marks on the dipstick.
Adding Transmission Fluid
If the transmission fluid is low, you can add more fluid to the transmission. To do this, follow these steps:
- Purchase the correct type of transmission fluid for your car.
- Locate the transmission fluid filler hole. It is usually located on the side of the transmission.
- Insert a funnel into the filler hole.
- Add transmission fluid to the transmission until the fluid level reaches the “full” mark on the dipstick.
Conclusion
Transmission fluid is an essential component of a car’s transmission. If a car runs out of transmission fluid, it can cause serious damage to the transmission. It is important to check the transmission fluid level regularly and to add fluid as needed.
