How to Check Transmission Fluid

Many new vehicles include sealed transmissions. However, the team at Honda of Columbia can help if you need to know how to check the transmission fluid in the model that you currently drive. If you know how to use a dipstick, then the process is very simple:

1. Let your engine heat up for a few moments. You don’t want to check the transmission fluid when it’s cold.
2. Just locate the transmission fluid dipstick using your owner’s manual, then pull it out and wipe it clean with a lint-free rag.
3. Reinsert the dipstick and draw it out once more. Check to see that the level comes up to the line marked “full”.
4. If you need to add more, use a funnel and add the fluid little by little, checking the level as you go.

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

It’s a good idea to check your transmission fluid levels roughly once per month if your transmission isn’t sealed. If you need transmission fluid, you can find it at our parts department near Columbia.

Checking the Fluid in a Sealed Transmission 

Sealed transmissions have become popular for several reasons, but they don’t have dipsticks, and you can’t check a sealed transmission’s fluid level at home. Instead, schedule service and let an expert take a look.

Why have sealed transmissions become the norm? Here’s what you should know:

• It’s easy to make the mistake of checking the transmission fluid levels while the engine is cold. Since the level goes down when the fluid is cold, this can lead to overfilling.
• A sealed transmission is less likely to lose fluid or become contaminated with dirt and debris.

How often do you check your transmission fluid if your car’s transmission is sealed? You shouldn’t ever need to check the fluid level in a sealed transmission, but the fluid will eventually need to be replaced. Follow the guidelines laid out in your owner’s manual, and be on the lookout for the following symptoms of expired fluid and transmission problems:

• Your transmission makes strange noises when you change gears.
• The gears take a long time to change when you shift.
• You notice that there are significant delays between gears as you accelerate.

Rely on Honda of Columbia For All Your Service Needs

If you require transmission service or just want an expert to take a look under the hood, you can rely on Honda of Columbia to help you get back on the roads of Irmo and West Columbia in no time. Start exploring our service specials now, or continue your research with more of our service and parts guides.

Service Specials at Honda of Columbia