Easy Guide To Checking Your Transmission Fluid
Photo Credit: Mitsubishi
How to Check the Transmission Fluid
Knowing where to check transmission fluids in your own driveway starts with locating the proper components under the hood. With the vehicle parked on a level surface and the engine warmed up to normal operating temperature, turn off or keep the engine running in park depending on your owner’s manual instructions. Pop the hood and locate the transmission fluid dipstick, which is typically marked with a transmission symbol or a brightly colored handle, such as red or yellow, situated near the transaxle or engine block. Pull the dipstick out, wipe it clean on a rag or paper towel, and reinsert it completely into the tube before pulling it out again to read the level. If your vehicle features a modern sealed system or Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) without an accessible dipstick, the check must be conducted using a lift and specialized diagnostic equipment beneath the chassis.
How to Check an Automatic Transmission System
Checking an automatic transmission system requires a specific approach because transmission fluid expands when warm. Before inspecting the level, start your vehicle and let it idle in park for a few minutes so the fluid warms up and flows thoroughly through the internal valving. Shift through the gear selector briefly—from Park down through Drive and back—before leaving it in Park and engaging the emergency brake. Carefully remove the automatic transmission dipstick, wipe off any excess fluid, and insert it back into the filler tube. When you pull it out a second time, examine where the fluid line aligns relative to the “Full” or “Hot” markings. Beyond verifying volume, inspect the texture and color of the liquid on the dipstick; healthy automatic transmission fluid should feel smooth and appear translucent with a pink or light red hue.
Checking to See if You Need More Transmission Fluid
Determining whether your vehicle requires additional transmission fluid involves evaluating both the physical fluid level and its overall quality. If the fluid line falls below the minimum fill notch or “Add” mark on the dipstick, low fluid levels can cause delayed gear engagement, slipping, or unusual humming noises during acceleration. Pouring fresh fluid into the dipstick tube using a narrow funnel will bring the level back up, but caution must be taken to avoid overfilling, which causes fluid aeration and improper hydraulic pressure. Pay equal attention to the condition of the fluid on the cloth; dark brown, black, or burnt-smelling fluid indicates thermal breakdown or internal wear, signaling that a full fluid flush and replacement is necessary rather than just topping off.
University Mitsubishi Service Department
If you prefer professional care or drive a model with a sealed transmission system, knowing where to check transmission fluids at University Mitsubishi leads directly to their dedicated service center. The certified technicians inspect, diagnose, and refresh transmission fluids using factory-approved Mitsubishi formulations to keep your vehicle running smoothly.