Newer or gently used transmission fluid is a translucent dark red color, becoming darker as time goes on. Let’s look at the various shades of transmission fluid and what they indicate within your vehicle.
Transmission Fluid Color Guide
As you drive, transmission fluid naturally takes on a darker and deeper color. There are some cases, however, where its appearance indicates service is needed. Here are a few differing colors drivers can look for:
- Dark Red: If the fluid appears dark red without much leakage at all, it is in great shape.
- Brick Red: The fluid will appear darker after a few months or years of driving, and this color is normal.
- Blood Red: This color means you should schedule service in the near future.
- Near Black: Burnt or near black means service is needed immediately.
What Does Leaking Red Fluid Mean?
If there is a leaking red fluid coming from your car, it’s almost always transmission fluid. While this makes it easy to identify the issue, there are a few considerations you should make, including:
- Odor: New or gently used fluid usually smells like petroleum. A burnt smell means a fluid change is needed.
- Consistency: Transmission fluid looks and feels oily. If it has taken on a different consistency, there may be a more serious issue with the car.
- Location: This fluid typically leaks from the front of the car, near the middle. If the leak occurs elsewhere, it may be a different fluid that’s been discolored by rust.
Signs Of Leaking Transmission
If you can see fluid leaking from the engine, this is one of the signs that transmission fluid is reducing. It is unsafe to drive a vehicle with fluid leakage. Call a local auto repair shop immediately.
Driving with leaking fluid can harm the car’s engine and it can also result in different potential damages.
Strange Sounds
Hearing strange noises while changing gears is due to metals that are grating. Metal-on-metal grating will happen when there is less lubrication in your transmission.
Dry and damaged gearboxes can be the reason behind these sounds. It’s recommended to call an auto repair shop whenever you hear strange noises.
Jerking While Driving
If your car is jerking while in motion, it’s possible there is a transmission issue. Low transmission fluid is the most common culprit here.
However, it can cause some other damage. When the fluid is too low, the gear teeth will not work smoothly, sometimes resulting in jerking while driving.
How To Inspect Your Transmission Fluid
It’s recommended to check your transmission fluid levels and its condition at least once per month. Inspecting the fluid will help you detect minor issues before they become severe.
Here is how you can inspect the fluid yourself:
- Start your car and ensure the engine is warm before inspecting the transmission fluid.
- On front-wheel drive vehicles, the fluid dipstick is typically found to the right of the motor oil dipstick.
- Check the level of the fluid with the dipstick to ensure it reaches the “full” indication.
- Use a funnel to add any additional fluid, if necessary.
- Inspect the look and odor of the fluid.
Ascot Automotive Specialists In Flagstaff, AZ
Ascot Automotive offers an extensive array of auto repair solutions to address every issue your vehicle may encounter. From routine maintenance to intricate repairs, our adept technicians possess the expertise to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Contact our experienced team today!
