Old fluid turns a dark red or brown and can develop a burnt smell, signaling that it is losing its viscosity and lubricating properties. In many front-wheel-drive vehicles, the transmission dipstick is located near the back of the engine compartment, often next to the coolant reservoir.
Check Transmission Oil and Add Fluid: Step-by-Step Guide
The transmission generates a significant amount of heat during operation, and the fluid absorbs this heat, carrying it away to the cooler lines. Fresh fluid is typically a bright red color and has a slightly sweet odor.
In rear-wheel-drive vehicles, you will usually find it further forward, closer to the firewall. Many modern vehicles require the transmission to be at a specific operating temperature to provide a valid fluid level reading.
Check Transmission Oil and Add Fluid Step-by-Step
While checking the level, also examine the fluid on the dipstick stick itself. Driving with degraded fluid accelerates wear on bearings and clutches, leading to premature transmission failure that might necessitate a complete rebuild or replacement.
More About Check transmission oil
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