What Color Should Transmission Fluid Be?

Lots of Raleigh vehicle owners endeavor to take on some of the simpler maintenance tasks at home, like checking transmission fluid. It should only take a few minutes of your time to check the transmission fluid in your car, but you need to know what you’re looking for. What color is transmission fluid when it’s new versus when it needs to be replaced? We explain more about the color of transmission fluid in the guide below, so you can understand how to move forward after checking your fluid!

What is Your Transmission Fluid Color Telling You? 

The color of transmission fluid changes over time, helping indicate when it’s time for a replacement. When it’s new, the transmission fluid is dark red and translucent. Over time, the fluid gets darker. Keep this chart in mind when checking your transmission fluid in Apex:

• Brand-new fluid: Dark red
• Normal aging: Darker brick red
• Service your vehicle soon: Deep blood red/rust red
• Service your vehicle immediately: Burnt/almost black 

Why is There Red Fluid Leaking From My Car? 

Now that you know the color of transmission fluid, if you ever see red fluid leaking from your car you should know what it is right away. The distinctive color of transmission fluid makes it easy to identify, but here are some accompanying signs of a transmission fluid leak:

• Smell: Transmission fluid tends to give off a petroleum-like odor. If it has a burnt quality, then it needs to be replaced.
• Touch: Transmission fluid is slick and oily to the touch, similar to motor oil and brake fluid.
• Location: If the red fluid leaking from your car is leaking towards the front-middle, this is another indicator that it’s transmission fluid.

Preventing Transmission Leaks and Other Issues

If you follow these useful tips, it’ll be easier to avoid red fluid leaking from your car onto your Holly Springs driveway:

• Use the Correct Fluid: Automatic and manual transmissions use different fluids. Check your owner’s manual if you aren’t sure what fluid your vehicle’s transmission takes.
• Adhere to Your Owner’s Manual: Follow along with the recommended transmission maintenance as it is listed in your owner’s manual.
• Don’t Skip Transmission Service: Schedule transmission service as close to the recommended intervals as possible. This helps catch things like low fluid or dirty fluid before they become a full-on fluid leak. Additionally, if a component needs to be replaced, your service tech will be sure to let you know.

Schedule Service at Hendrick Chevrolet Cary

We make it easy to keep up with essential services like transmission fluid maintenance! Schedule online to get started at our service center today, and check out our website for more service tips and tricks that will help you be a more confident car owner.