How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

Whether you’re driving a new or pre-owned vehicle, it’s important to check your transmission fluid regularly so that your vehicle won’t let you down on the Bloomington roads. But, how often do you check your transmission fluid? You should be checking your transmission fluid monthly. With that being said, the answer to “How often do you check your transmission fluid?” can vary depending on the specific vehicle you’re driving. Some models may need to have their transmission fluid checked more often than others.

We suggest you reference your owner’s manual for transmission fluid inspection intervals. Ensuring you have the proper levels of transmission fluid and that the fluid hasn’t broken down yet will ensure that your transmission continues to shift smoothly as you drive around Peoria. If you notice any weird noises or hesitations to shift, it’s a good idea to have your transmission inspected by a professional service team. Learn more about transmission fluid maintenance today with the professionals from Sam Leman Automotive Group!

How to Check Your Transmission Fluid

We suggest you leave it to the professionals at our various service centers if you want to have your transmission fluid inspected. However, if you like to tackle DIY auto projects, we’ve got you covered. Just keep in mind that the steps to check the transmission fluid in your specific vehicle may vary. Generally, here’s how to check your transmission fluid:

1. Ensure the engine has been properly warmed up before you check your transmission fluid. This can ensure that the fluid level you’re reading is accurate.
2. Turn the car off, and put it in park.
3. Open up your hood, and locate the transmission fluid dipstick. You’ll want to check your owner’s manual for confirmation on where your transmission fluid dipstick is located.
4. Remove the dipstick, and inspect the fluid. If the fluid appears dirty or smells burnt, you may need to replace the transmission fluid.
5. Clean off the transmission fluid dipstick, and reinsert it back into the tube.
6. Remove it once more, but this time, take note of the fluid level on the transmission fluid dipstick. If the levels are incorrect, you may have to schedule a service appointment to have more added.

How to Check Your Transmission Fluid – Sealed Transmissions

If you’re trying to check your transmission fluid but notice there’s no dipstick, you may have a sealed transmission. The fluid levels in a sealed transmission can still be checked, but it’ll have to be done by a professional service technician. We don’t recommend trying to check the fluid in a sealed transmission yourself as you could end up damaging it. The various service centers at our dealership locations will be more than happy to help you check your sealed transmission.

Our Teams Can Help You Maintain Your Vehicle!

Whether you’re having transmission issues or just need simple maintenance, you can count on the experts at Sam Leman Automotive Group. Reach out to us today, and we’ll help you keep your vehicle running in tip-top shape!