How to Check Transmission Fluid

A vehicle’s transmission — whether automatic or manual — is a crucial part of its powertrain. The transmission ensures that just the right amount of power is available at any given time to a vehicle’s wheels. In other words, transmissions modulate power from the engine to the wheels, usually with a series of gears. In order to do so properly, however, transmissions require fluid. What’s more, this transmission fluid must regularly be checked and flushed for optimal operability. So, learn all about how to check the transmission fluid and how often you should check your transmission fluid with Maserati of Central Florida. Contact us for more information.

Here’s How to Check Transmission Fluid in Five Steps

It’s easy to learn how to check the transmission fluid in your Maserati if it doesn’t have a sealed transmission (which most models today do). Here’s what to do if you own an older or vintage Maserati:

1. Turn the engine on for a bit to warm it up. Then park your car and secure the parking brake. Open up the hood.
2. Refer to your owner’s manual to locate the transmission fluid dipstick location. Then, find it in your engine. On front-wheel-drive cars, it’s usually located to the right of the oil dipstick.
3. Remove the dipstick and touch the fluid, moving it around between your thumb and forefinger. It should be almost clear, possibly with a pink tinge to it. If it looks dirty or gives off a burnt smell, schedule service immediately.
4. Use a rag to wipe the dipstick clean of any fluid. Next re-insert it into the fluid receptacle and pull it out once more. Now you’re ready to check the level. If it’s under the “Full” marking, you’ll need to add more fluid.
5. Use a funnel to bring the fluid level up to the right spot. Be sure not to overfill it.

Checking the Fluid in a Sealed Transmission 

The vast majority of new Maserati models have sealed transmissions that cannot be checked easily with a dipstick. That means the easiest way to check the fluid is, rather than attempting to do it yourself, to bring it to a service center like ours.

When to Check the Fluid in a Sealed Transmission 

Sealed transmissions limit the amount of wasted transmission fluid, potentially saving you money in the long run. But it’s harder to check them. So how do you know when it’s time to bring your vehicle to get the fluid checked? Well, if you follow your maintenance schedule, transmission fluid checks should be included in the itinerary of maintenance items. But these signs point to the need for immediate attention:

• The gears hesitate before changing. 
• During acceleration, there’s a noticeable delay when the gears shift.
• You can hear strange noises when the gears change. 

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

You should check the main fluid levels of your car monthly. That includes checking your transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and engine oil. 

Transmission Fluid Basics

What else should you know about a vehicle’s transmission fluid? 

• Different transmissions use different types of fluid. Your owner’s manual will recommend a particular type that works in your vehicle. 
• Checking the fluid on a manual transmission will usually require a jack to access a plug located beneath the car. As is the case with sealed automatic transmissions, in practical terms, having a manual car is usually reason enough for most Windermere and Winter Park drivers to schedule service for transmission fluid checkups.
• Low transmission fluid could cause your Maserati to hesitate upon shifting, but it could also be something else much more serious.
• You’ll want to replace your transmission fluid every 50,000 to 100,000 miles. Check your owner’s manual for more details.

Rely on Maserati of Central Florida For All Your Service Needs

Here at Maserati of Central Florida, we’re here to help Maserati owners from Orlando to Longwood just like you with your unique service needs and questions. Give us a call at 407-667-4300 for additional assistance with your questions. Otherwise, feel free to take advantage of our service specials to save more on your next transmission service appointment.

Service Specials at Maserati of Central Florida