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Automotive Service & Repair

2010-05-01 14:25:00

Ask Mr. Transmission

How do I check the transmission fluid level in an automatic transmission?

Always check the fluid level with the engine running (except Honda), the transmission in "park" (except Dodge products which should be in neutral with the emergency brake applied), and with the engine at operating temperature. Remove the dipstick and wipe with a rag. Insert the stick fully and remove. Look at both sides of the stick to verify the same indication. Repeat the process. The reason to check both sides of the dipstick is that after the fluid circulates through the transmission, it dumps back into the pan area and will cause an agitation of the fluid. This creates an uneven level and some fluid will "slosh" onto the stick and give a false reading. Some transmissions are worse than others. Note: If you check the fluid level after the engine has been off for a long time, fluid from the torque converter will drain back into the pan area where the level is measured and give you a false high reading. When the engine is started, the fluid in the pan area is used to fully charge the transmission and torque converter. Also, the difference of fluid temperature will affect the measurement. The fluid volume expands when heated to operating temperature. Another method of checking the fluid is to turn off the engine and immediately check the level. This will stop the agitation and give an accurate level (no agitation) before the fluid in the torque converter has had a chance to drain back into the pan area which would give a false-high reading.

Here’s a tip…if you have added fluid, go through the same procedure, but repeat the process several times before you look for a reading. Some of the added fluid will adhere to the side of the filler tube and can give a false reading.

Here’s another tip…if the fluid level is low, you have a leak! Transmissions do not consume fluid. Have the leak diagnosed and repaired to prevent more serious problems.

After you have added fluid, drive the vehicle for a mile or two, then recheck the level. This is especially important in front wheel drive vehicles.

(If you have questions, send them to Ask Mr. Transmission, % The Q & A Times, 116 N. Westfield, Wichita, KS 67212)

Mike Sparkman is the owner/ operator of Mastertech Transmission. He runs the company with the help of his wife Cheryl and their certified staff of experts. Their goal is to help people with their car problems, do it honestly, with quality and at a fair price. Mike and his team of experts have over 60 years combined experience in the transmission industry. They hold ATRA certification and Mastertech is listed as a AAA approved service facility. You can contact Mike @ (316) 269-9590.