Transmission fluid is checked differently for many of the different manufacturers. This list is not intended to explain every make or model's unique procedures, only to offer suggestions. Any time your transmission leaks, the fluid NEEDS to be checked. Transmissions don't USE any fluid, they only lose fluid through leakage. Come see us if you have any questions about your transmission's fluid quality or levels to be sure.

Most older GM vehicles have a dipstick installed into the filler tube. When the transmission fluid is low, fluid must be pumped or poured down the dipstick to fill to the proper level. These transmissions normally will have two lines, separated with cross hatch marking. The proper fluid level, when warmed up and checked in the park position, will be between the two lines. Operating temperature is approximately 190 degrees farenheight and if you hold onto the stick with your fingers, it will be hot to the touch.

Many of the later GM cars no longer have a dipstick and filler tube. These systems require the vehicle to be on the lift (level) and require the temperature to reach a proper level (as read by a scanner) in order to accurately set the transmission fluid level, then a plug is removed to adjust the level. Unfortunately these vehicles will require a phone call or a visit to tell for sure.

Older Gm cars and trucks use Dexron lll fluid, and newer models use Dexron Vl fluid. In most cases Dexron Vl can be used to service older units as well.

All older Chrysler or Dodge cars or trucks require the transmission be in NEUTRAL to accurately check the level. They still should be warmed up to about 190 degrees farenheight and normally will have to lines on the stick. The level should fall in between the lines when warm. Many newer trucks and cars you check the same way. Mitsubushi is also checked this way.

Minivans can usually be checked in park, after warmup.

Many later model Chrysler products no longer have a dipstick. They will typically still have the filler tube, but the manufacturers no longer supply the stick. In these cases, the stick is considered a tool and shops need to buy it to check the fluid. The transmission fluid temperature must be verified with a scan tool and then the tool measures the level against a chart which shows the level at varying temperature readings. Mercedes Benz and transmissions are also this style.

Older Chrysler car and trucks use Dexron lll fluid, and most newer units use ATF+4 fluid. In most cases ATF+4 can be used to service older units as well.

Older Ford vehicles are checked in Park, once warmed up. As always the level should be between the lines once it is warmed up.

Newer Explorers and other models no longer have a dipstick or filler tube. The fluid level on these units require the vehicle to be up on the lift and the fluid temperature needs to be verified to make sure it is between certain temperatures and a plug is removed to adjust the fluid level.

Modern Ford transmissions require appropriate fluids and in some applications if you use the wrong fluid the transmission will fail!! Fords you need to check the manufacturer recommendations as cars and F150s use Mercon V but F250s could have Mercon or Mercon V and 6 litre diesels MUST use Mercon SP or LV fluid.

Import cars and trucks require specific fluids in their transmissions. When the engineers design and build modern transmissions, they match the internal clutch plates and band materials with the proper fluid. Different fluids have different coefficients of friction, as well as shear properties among others. Changing the fluid type can have a drastic effect on shift quality and may cause shudders, noises, or other characteristics not desired at all!

On Honda vehicles you check the older ones at operating temperature and shut off the engine. You need to check the fluid level engine off within 1 minute of shut off. On newer Hondas and Acuras you check the level in Park with the engine running.

Most imports that have a dipstick are checked in Park or Neutral with the engine at operating temperature and running. If there are any questions, we always check the level while in Neutral...but make sure the park brake is on or the wheels are blocked!

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