If your car is a manual transmission, it is best to bring it in and let the professionals at Driver’s Edge check it for you. The car has to be on a hoist in order for the mechanic to reach the plug that gives access to the transmission fluid. Don’t put yourself in danger!
For an automatic transmission, the process is just like checking the engine oil:
Find the dipstick for the transmission fluid. You will see it located toward the rear of the engine, coming up from the transmission or the transaxle.
Make sure the engine is running in park or neutral and pull out the dipstick. The fluid should be a pinkish color, and nearly clear.
Wipe the dipstick clean with a lint-free cloth and put it back into the reservoir.
Pull it back out. Check the level of oil on the stick in relation to the “Full” line on the dipstick.
If the transmission fluid is clear and has no debris in it, new fluid can be added to reach the “Full” line on the dipstick. Use a funnel to reach the line to control the flow of the transmission fluid into the dipstick tube.
If you notice a burning smell or the fluid is dark with debris in it, bring your car to us for an inspection. The transmission may need to be flushed and refilled, which is much less expensive than a later repair or replacement. The price tag for transmission repair is one of the highest for your vehicle, so check the fluid or bring it to us and we will take care of it for you. Save yourself a great deal of time and money later.