How to Check Your Transmission Fluid

As you’re driving around Providence, RI, your vehicle has many different components working together to ensure you’ve got a smooth ride. One important component that you’ll want to regularly service is your transmission. Your transmission essentially transfers the power to your wheels and shifts gears as needed for smooth Cranston, RI travels which is why you’ll want to regularly inspect your transmission fluid.

Not sure how to check transmission fluid? We’re happy to help at MINI of Warwick. Whether you’ve got a new or pre-owned vehicle, we can assist with checking transmission fluid to ensure your vehicle won’t let you down. Learn more today with our team.

6 Steps for Checking Transmission Fluid

While it’s vital to check your transmission fluid, you may not be able to inspect your transmission fluid on your own. Many MINI models feature a sealed transmission that needs to be checked by a certified MINI technician. This doesn’t mean that your transmission fluid can’t be inspected but it should simply be checked at a certified MINI service center.

However, certain vehicles may be able to have their transmission fluid inspected without a sealed transmission can be checked by you in your own garage. If you’re not sure about the kind of transmission your vehicle has, you can always take the short trip from Newport, RI to our service center for assistance. With that being said, here are the general steps for how to check transmission fluid:

1. Start by warming up your vehicle and letting it run for a few monitors.
2. Ensure your vehicle is on level ground. Put it in Park and turn your vehicle off.
3. Find your transmission fluid dipstick. Usually, it’s located near the engine oil dipstick but you can reference your owner’s manual if you’re unsure.
4. Remove the dipstick and inspect the fluid. Make sure the fluid appears almost clear and doesn’t have a burnt smell.
5. Clean the dipstick and reinsert it back into the tube. Remove the dipstick and check the transmission fluid level.
6. Put the dipstick back in if everything checks out and you’re good to go.

How Often Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

We often get asked, “How often do you check your transmission fluid?” and the answer typically depends on your vehicle and driving habits. Spirited drives or drives in heavy traffic could often mean that you’ll need to check your transmission fluid more often.

So, how often do you check your transmission fluid for a MINI? We suggest you reference your owner’s manual for specifics or you can visit our service team for details. In the meantime, if you notice any of these signs during your drives, we suggest you have your transmission serviced:

• Delayed gear changes
• Burning smell during your drives
• Unusual noises during gear changes
• Reduced/delayed acceleration
• Leaking transmission fluid

Get Help With Checking Your Transmission Fluid at MINI of Warwick

Whether your vehicle needs service or you simply have some questions for our team, you can always visit us in Warwick or reach out to us online for assistance. We’re dedicated to helping you keep your vehicle in tip-top shape.