Site Traffic Information and Cookies

We use cookies to collect and analyse information on our site's performance and to enable the site to function. Cookies also allow us and our partners to show you relevant ads when you visit our site and other 3rd party websites, including social networks. You can choose to allow all cookies by clicking 'Allow all', or manage them individually by clicking 'Manage cookie preferences', where you will also find more information.

Manage cookie preferences

  1. Home
  2. LEARN
  3. CAR MAINTENANCE
  4. CHECK TRANSMISSION FLUID

CHECK TRANSMISSION FLUID

How to Check Transmission Fluid

Whether you drive a manual or an automatic car, your transmission system is critical to performance and transmission fluids play a vital role in keeping your gearbox from grinding. Modern engines create tremendous pressures and it is the gears that connect your engine to the wheels. A failed or broken transmission system is a major expense and you should check transmission fluid regularly. This quick guide tells you how to check automatic transmission fluids and how to check the level of manual transmission fluids. It also tells you how to check transmission fluid with a dipstick and how to check transmission fluid without
a dipstick.

 

How often to check your transmission fluid

 

Transmission fluids can sometimes leak and, when they do, it can prove very expensive. For peace of mind, it is advisable to check transmission fluid as regularly as once a month.

 

Step by step instructions for checking your vehicle’s transmission fluid

 

  1.  Run your engine for 5 to 10 minutes making sure that your car is parked on a level surface
  2.  Find the transmission fluid dipstick which will be further down in your engine than the engine oil dipstick. If you
    cannot locate the dipstick your car may have a sealed transmission system. Your car manual will tell you if this is the case. If you have a sealed transmission, you will need to get under the car to get to the drain and this is best done on a hydraulic car lift.
  3.  These instructions therefore continue with how to check transmission fluid with a dipstick.
  4. Remove the dipstick from its bay, wipe it clean, put it back in and withdraw it again to see how close the reading is
    to the “FULL” mark. Take care as the fluid may be hot.
  5. Top up to “FULL” if required pouring transmission fluid into the dipstick hole through a long, thin funnel. 

 

Transmission fluid basics 

 

Transmission systems have to contend with heat, wear and friction and transmission fluids are used to combat and manage these effects. If your transmission fluids are leaking or in need of a change you will experience grinding or slipping of your gears whether you are driving an automatic or a manual car.
The life of a transmission fluid can be up to 100,000 miles but it is important to check its condition regularly in line with the instructions in your car handbook. If the chemicals and additives inside the fluid start to degrade, it’s time for a change. 

 

Castrol transmax – enabling longer transmission life


Whether a car is automatic or manual, Castrol TRANSMAX range has the right transmission fluid for the vehicle, providing enhanced protection to all moving parts which enables longer transmission life. Check the specifications in your user manual to find the right product.


Castrol has over 100 years of experience in developing transmission and axle fluids and is the choice of many leading car and transmissions manufacturers for factory-fill products.


We offer a complete range of transmission fluids to meet your car’s requirements. 

 

 

Related links

How often should you check your engine oil

How often should you check your engine oil

Your engine doesn't simply need the right specification of engine oil, it also needs to have the right amount at all times. So don't wait for a dashboard warning light before you pop the bonnet; it's a good idea to check your engine oil at the dipstick at least once a week, and always before a road trip.
How to top up your car engine oil

How to top up your car engine oil

Most cars use a little engine oil over time so it is essential to maintain the right level of engine oil by topping up with the right oil whenever your dipstick check says your oil level is low.
Why you should use synthetic oil

Why you should use synthetic oil

Why choose full synthetic engine oil? Even if your warranty doesn't depend on you choosing synthetic engine oil, it's still the strongest and best choice for every engine. As long as you choose the right grade and specification of synthetic oil, it is guaranteed to exceed the manufacturer's requirements and give your engine the best possible protection.
How to recycle your used engine oil

How to recycle your used engine oil

While oil is a natural resource, it occurs deep in the ground where it can't damage plant and animal life. It's vitally important that any used engine oil from home car maintenance makes it to a recycling centre, as this ensures that it won't leak into the ground, potentially causing hazards to wildlife and water resources.