How to Check Your Transmission Fluid
Learning how to check your transmission fluid is a task that can actually help prevent maintenance issues before they turn into more serious, and costly, problems. The transmission in your Volvo has been precision-engineered to be smooth-shifting and responsive on Billings-area roads and beyond, and it is important to make sure that you have the correct amount of transmission fluid in order for it to operate as designed. So, are you wondering, “How often do I check my transmission fluid?” The service team at Underriner Volvo Cars has prepared this step-by-step guide on when and how to check your transmission fluid.
Checking Your Transmission Fluid
To check the transmission fluid level in your Volvo car, SUV, or wagon, all you need to do is follow these simple steps.
- First of all, start the vehicle and let it run for 10 minutes or so to make sure that your engine is warm. Put the car in park before exiting and opening the hood.
- Locate the transmission fluid dipstick. If you drive a front-wheel drive car, it’s typically located to the right of the oil dipstick. You can check your owner’s manual for the exact location.
- Once you locate the dipstick, pull it out and wipe it clean with a rag. Next, insert the dipstick back into your vehicle and pull it out once more to check the fluid level. If the level is under the “full” marking, you will need to add more transmission fluid.
- To add transmission fluid, use a funnel and pour carefully, making sure that you do not overfill.
If you run into any problems when checking your transmission fluid level, you can rely on the experts in our Service Center to help. You can conveniently schedule a service appointment with us online.
Checking Fluid Levels in a Sealed Transmission
If there isn’t a dipstick underneath the vehicle’s hood, it’s because your vehicle is equipped with a sealed transmission. Our certified technicians can check the fluid level for you as part of your next routine maintenance service.
When to Check the Fluid in a Sealed Transmission
A sealed transmission limits the amount of wasted transmission fluid, which will help Shepherd-area drivers save money in the long run. However, the fluid still needs to be replaced eventually. Be aware of the following signs that indicate a transmission problem:
- Gears that hesitate before changing
- Unusual noises when changing gears
- Delayed acceleration when you shift gears
How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?
Wondering how often you should check your transmission fluid? Our service experts recommend that you check the transmission fluid at least once a month. It’s a good idea to also check all other fluid levels at the same time, including the power steering fluid and engine oil. Consult your owner’s manual for specifics on your specific Volvo model.
Additional Transmission Fluid Information
- Transmission fluid varies depending on your vehicle and transmission type (automatic or manual). Your owner’s manual will have information on what type of fluid to use.
- In order to check the fluid levels of a manual transmission, you will typically need to use a jack in order to access a plug located underneath your car. Our service techs are happy to help if you don’t have the necessary equipment.
- Your transmission fluid should be replaced every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. However, your driving habits and the transmission type may affect how often the fluid needs to be replaced.
Get Professional Auto Care Today at Underriner Volvo Cars
Drivers from Big Timber to Huntley rely on the service experts at Underriner Volvo Cars to handle all of their Volvo maintenance and repair needs. Whether it’s a simple oil change or tire rotation or a more extensive transmission or brake repair, we do it all. We also offer rotating service specials and coupons to help make taking good care of your Volvo more affordable than ever. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.