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How to Check Transmission Fluid

Changing transmission fluid

 

One of the best ways to make sure you are taking proper care is by checking your transmission fluids and making sure that they’re at the proper level. In fact, keeping your transmission fluid levels topped up is just as important as getting regular oil changes. So how often do you check your transmission fluids? Our Kiefer Kia service center is here to show you how easy it can be, so don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions, or schedule service today near Springfield.

How to Check Transmission Fluid: Step-by-Step

Learning how to check transmission fluid may seem complicated at first glance, but the process is simple once you’ve done it once or twice. Here’s how:

  1. With the car in park, start the engine and let it run for several minutes to warm up the transmission fluid. This is important for getting an accurate reading.
  2. Open the hood and locate the transmission fluid dipstick, which should be next to the oil dipstick in FWD vehicles. If you have any trouble finding it, refer to your owner’s manual.
  3. First, check whether the fluid needs to be replaced. Insert the dipstick into the fluid, then inspect its color and condition. It should be clear with a slightly pinkish hue. If it smells burnt or appears dirty, schedule an appointment at a Salem-area Kia service center ASAP.
  4. Next, check the fluid level. Wipe the dipstick clean, reinsert the dipstick into the reservoir, and carefully pull it out. If the fluid doesn’t reach the “full” marking, top it off by adding a small amount at a time through a funnel. Re-check the level after each addition.

How to Check Transmission Fluid in a Sealed Transmission 

No luck locating the dipstick? If you drive a newer vehicle, it may have a sealed transmission. This type of transmission reduces transmission fluid loss through evaporation and other factors, but you can’t learn how to check transmission fluid on your own if your car has one. Not to worry — our team will check your transmission fluid when you’re here for routine maintenance. If your car has a sealed transmission, and you notice any of the following signs before your next scheduled service, you may need to bring your car in for a transmission fluid top-off sooner:

  • Hesitating gears
  • Strange noises with gear shifts
  • Gears don’t shift smoothly when accelerating

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid? 

Every vehicle is different, so it’s best to check your owner’s manual to see how often you should check your transmission fluid. Transmission fluid needs to be changed and topped off at different rates depending on the transmission type. If your car doesn’t have a sealed transmission, we recommend checking the following automotive fluids at least once per month:

  • Transmission fluid
  • Power steering fluid
  • Engine oil

Rely On Us for Expert Team at Kiefer Kia

Don’t hesitate to let our team make sure that your vehicle is remaining running smoothly for years to come as we not only know the best ways to maintain your vehicle, but we’ve gathered many of them in the same place with our service tips and tricks page. 

 

 

Service Specials at Kiefer Kia

Oil change $69.99 normal $124.95

Few things are more important to the overall performance of your engine than the engine oil and the filter that keeps it clean. Come on in and we’ll get your KIA running right!
Service includes:
• Full Synthetic Engine Oil Change
• Genuine Kia Oil Filter Replacement

Valid for Kia vehicles only. Up to 5 quartz Void where prohibited by law. Environmental disposal fee may apply. Taxes not included in price. Not to be combined with any other offers, coupons or prior discounts. Must present coupon in person at dealership at time of arrival. Limit one coupon per customer per serviceitem. Complimentary Multipoint Inspection included in purchase of oil and filter change. Coupon has no cash value. Offer valid for up to 6 quarts of oil. Some vehicles may incur other additional charges;please see dealer for details.
Offer expires on 05/31/2026

Alignments $89.95 normal $ 129.95

Present this coupon and receive a discount on your Kia vehicle’s alignment.
Bring in your vehicle and we’ll check your alignment and set it to factory settings! Don’t go a day longer unnecessarily wearing your tires.

Valid for Kia vehicles only. Void where prohibited by law. Environmental disposal fee may apply. Taxesnot included in price. Not to be combined with any other offers, coupons or prior discounts. Must present coupon in person at dealership at time of arrival. Limit one coupon per customer per serviceitem. Coupon has no cash value. Some vehicles may incur other additional charges; please seedealer for details.
Offer expires on
05/31/2026

Transmission Service $50 off coupon

Transmission Flush: A more thorough service using a machine to force out old fluid and replace it with new fluid.
Filter Replacement: Replacing the internal transmission filter, which captures debris and metal shavings.
Pan Cleaning and Gasket Replacement: Removing the transmission pan to clean out sludge and replacing the old gasket with a new one to prevent leaks.
Full System Inspection: Checking the transmission pan, sump, and overall system for leaks, damage, or excessive wear.

Valid for Kia vehicles only. Void where prohibited by law. Taxes and shop supplies not included inprice. Coupon has no cash value. Environmental disposal fees may apply. Not to be combined withany other offers, coupons or prior discounts. Must present coupon in person at the time of arrival.Limit one coupon per customer per service item. Some vehicles may incur other additional charges;please see dealer for details.
Offer expires on 05/31/2026

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