How to Check Your Transmission Fluid

Much like getting regular oil changes and tire rotations, knowing how to check your transmission fluid is a key part of your Mazda maintenance schedule. Learning how to check your transmission fluid allows you to spot potential issues before they turn into a serious headache. Learn how to check your transmission fluid with these easy instructions from our service experts at Hamden Mazda!

Checking Your Transmission Fluid: Step-by-Step Guide

Your vehicle’s transmission transfers your engine power into usable motion on New Haven streets. Needless to say, monitoring its performance is vital. Follow these steps to check your transmission fluid:

1. Warm your engine by letting it run for a few minutes, ensuring the car is in park before popping the hood.
2. Find the transmission fluid dipstick, typically located to the right of the oil dipstick. Consult your owner’s manual if you’re not sure.
3. Remove the dipstick and touch the fluid, moving it around between your thumb and forefinger. Ideally the fluid should be nearly clear, with a pink hue. If it looks brown, has metal flakes, or gives off a burnt smell, take it to a service centre for a fluid replacement.
4. Use a rag to wipe off the dipstick before inserting 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 transmission fluid.
5. Using a funnel, refill the fluid level up to the right spot, being careful not to overfill.

Do you feel uneasy about learning how to check your transmission fluid? Don’t hesitate to schedule service at Hamden Mazda near North Haven today.

Checking the Fluid on a Sealed Transmission

Now you might be wondering: “what is a sealed transmission?” Many modern vehicles don’t have a dipstick, meaning that it has a “sealed” transmission – as it doesn’t have any openings for a dipstick. This doesn’t mean your transmission can’t be accessed, but it does mean you won’t be able to check the transmission fluid yourself. In these cases, our certified service experts will have to take care of the service for you.

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

Checking all your vehicle’s fluids on a monthly basis is the best way to ensure that you drive from North Haven to Wallingford comfortably and with ease. In addition to checking your transmission fluid, keeping an eye on your engine oil and power steering fluid is a smart way to save yourself trouble down the line.

But what if you have a sealed transmission as mentioned above? If you notice your vehicle lurching during gear changes, sluggish acceleration, or find yourself stuck in one gear, then it’s important to check your transmission fluid.

Transmission Fluid Basics

As one of the most complex components of your vehicle, your transmission requires a lot of know-how to keep it working properly. Here are some our top transmission tips:

• There is a wide range of transmission fluids available, and depending on your Mazda model and transmission type, you’ll need to use the right fluid. Check your owner’s manual to be sure that you’re using the correct transmission fluid.
• While it’s possible to check your transmission fluid at home, the task might require tools, such as a jack to access a plug underneath your car. If you don’t feel confident propping up your vehicle, it’s better to let our experts handle it for you.
• Replace your transmission fluid every 50,000 to 100,000 miles, keeping in mind that your driving habits in Wallingford may affect the actual interval.

Rely on Hamden Mazda For All Your Service Needs

Are you ready to take care of your Mazda with our team at Hamden Mazda? Don’t hesitate to contact us online with any questions you may have for our experts. Also be sure to learn how to clean the inside of a windshield with our team!