How To Check An Automatic Transmission Before Buying Automobile

First, check the transmission fluid level and condition. If you can’t find the transmission dipstick check the vehicles owner manual.

Keep in mind, however, that some modern cars simply don't have the transmission dipstick and require special procedure performed in a transmission repair shop to check the transmission fluid level.

The automatic transmission and torque converter have become much more complex and computerized. These designs have made the automatic transmission and torque converter more reliable these days, but still automatic transmissions do tend to wear out and break. Its very important to always change transmission fluid. Many car owners tend to perform regular car maintenance such as oil change, check tire air pressure and air filter. Many car owners overlook checking the automatic transmission fluid. The automatic transmission fluid doesn’t need to be changed as often as changing the motor oil but the transmission fluid should be checked every time you change motor oil. The automatic transmission fluid level should be checked by pulling the transmission / transaxle dipstick. The transmission fluid level should mark at least to the full mark on the transmission dipstick. The transmission fluid should have a reddish color. The automatic transmission fluid should not be brownish or black like motor oil. The automatic transmission fluid should not smell burnt. A burnt smell is a sign of transmission problems. The transmission should not have bubbles on the dipstick. Bubbles on the transmission dipstick is a sign of excessive heat and that means the transmission is getting too hot. Heat is the key factor in automatic transmission problems. Also check the transmission fluid for any signs of metal shavings mixed with the transmission fluid. Metal in the transmission fluid is a sign of transmission problems.

Having a transmission problem can be very timely and expensive, The automatic transmission is a complex and expensive part of the vehicle. If the automatic transmission is heavily abused, the transmission can be easily destroyed within just half an hour of driving with a transmission problem. An automatic transmission and torque converter are very sensitive to the transmission fluid quality and condition. Improper transmission fluid such type of fluid) can damage the automatic transmission.

Obviously, when buying a used car, the automatic transmission is one of the most important parts to check. A potential transmission problem in a used car. Can ending up cost you a lot more then you bargained for. You should always have any vehicle you are considering buying checked by a professional mechanic before purchasing.

How to check the automatic fluid turn on the automobile and let the engine idling, transmission in "Park" (some car may have different procedure, refer to owner's manual) remove the automatic transmission dipstick and wipe it out with the clean cloth. Then insert it back and pull out again. Check the fluid level, low level may indicate a transmission leak. Look at the transmission fluid very closely. It helps to drip the transmission fluid on a white paper to be able to see fluid condition. The transmission fluid on the paper should be clean and transparent, without any metal filings or black flakes. New transmission fluid usually comes red. Over the time and use it become more brownish, but it shouldn't be black. Try to smell the transmission fluid. It should not have a burnt smell. If you discover that transmission fluid is too dirty or black, or smells burnt, avoid buying such a car