How to Check Your Transmission Fluid

Routinely checking the transmission fluid in your Buick or GMC vehicle can help you to catch any potential issues before they become more serious and costly to fix. So, how often do you check your transmission fluid? The experts in the Albrecht Buick GMC of Wakefield service center recommend that you check the transmission fluid level in your vehicle once a month. Learn more about how to check transmission fluid, and if you require assistance or are experiencing any issues with your SUV or truck’s transmission, schedule service with us in Wakefield today!

Checking Transmission Fluid: Step-by-Step Guide 

The transmission is one of the most complicated and critical mechanical features of your vehicle, so regularly checking your transmission fluid level will help you enjoy a smooth and safe ride on %target_city_1%%-area roads. Here’s how to check transmission fluid:

1. Start the car and let it run for a few minutes in order to warm up the engine.
2. Locate the transmission fluid dipstick. It will usually be located to the right of the oil dipstick. If you’re having trouble finding the dipstick, check your owner’s manual.
3. Remove the dipstick and check the color and consistency of the fluid. The color should be nearly clear with a pink hue and the consistency should be oily and slick like brake fluid or motor oil.
4. Use a rag to wipe off the dipstick, and insert it back into the vehicle. Pull it out again and check the level. If it’s under the “Full” marking, you’ll need to add more.
5. Using a funnel, add enough transmission fluid to bring the level up to full. Make sure that you don’t overfill it.

If the transmission fluid looks dirty or gives off a burnt smell, you should bring the vehicle in for service at Albrecht Buick GMC of Wakefield as soon as you can. Our certified technicians can inspect your transmission and drain and replace the fluid, so you can get safely back on the roads in and around Lynnfield.

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

As previously noted, our service team recommends that you check the transmission fluid, as well as the brake fluid, engine oil, power steering fluid, and windshield wiper fluid at least once a month. Your owner’s manual will have the schedule for your specific Buick or GMC model. If you don’t have access to your owner’s manual, consult the experts in the Albrecht Buick GMC of Wakefield service center in Wakefield.

More About Transmission Fluid 

Here’s some additional information regarding transmission fluid:

• There are different types of transmission fluid available, so you should consult your owner’s manual to determine which is right for your vehicle. The parts team at Albrecht Buick GMC of Wakefield can help you determine what type of transmission fluid your vehicle requires. 
• To check the fluid in a manual transmission you’ll need a jack to lift the vehicle in order to access the plug located beneath the car. If you’re like most Medford-area drivers, you may wish to have our professional technicians handle the job for you.
• If your vehicle hesitates when switching gears it could be due to low transmission fluid, or it may be a sign of a more serious problem. Check the fluid level, if it’s full and the fluid is clean, but you’re still experiencing hesitation, schedule service with us as soon as possible.
• Transmission fluid should be changed every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. Your owner’s manual will have your specific replacement interval.

Learn More About How to Check Your Transmission Fluid at Albrecht Buick GMC of Wakefield

How often do you check your transmission fluid? Checking the fluid level once a month will help you to keep tabs on the health of your transmission. Whether you need transmission service, an oil change, or any other maintenance or repair service, you can rely on the team at Albrecht Buick GMC of Wakefield. Make sure to check out our current service specials and if you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact our service center.

Service Specials at Albrecht Buick GMC of Wakefield