Proper vehicle maintenance is necessary to ensure reliable and safe performance. Checking the levels of your motor oil and lubricants monthly and refilling them as needed will promote the efficient operation of your car. This is especially true of transmission fluid, which plays a crucial role in lubricating moving parts and cooling engine components. If you want to check and refill the fluid yourself, here's what you should know.

How to Check Your Vehicle's Transmission Fluid

First, make sure you're parked on level ground to ensure an accurate reading. Some vehicles must be warmed up and running, while others must be shut off. Consult your car's owner's manual to determine which option is recommended for you. 

Open the hood and look for the transmission dipstick. It's usually near the rear of the engine and should be marked with a symbol indicating the transmission, the same sign that lights up on your dashboard when there's an issue. Be careful when removing the dipstick, as the fluid is likely to be hot. Wipe the dipstick with a clean cloth, then place it back in the receptacle. 

When you remove it again, look at the line indicating the appropriate levels. You should also assess the quality of the fluid. Specks of sediment or debris indicate impurities, which might require a transmission flush.  

How to Refill the Transmission Fluid

If you're low, check your owner's manual first to determine the best type to use for your vehicle. If the owner's manual specified that fluid should be checked while the car is running, the car should also be running when adding more. You'll need a funnel to ensure it goes directly into the receptacle without spilling elsewhere. 

Add the fluid a little at a time, occasionally checking the dipstick level to prevent overfilling. Most vehicles take between 9 and 13 quarts, so the exact amount to add will depend on how low the level was when you initially checked it. As you're pouring the fluid, pay attention to any leaks from under the vehicle. 

For quality motor oil and lubricants, including transmission fluid, check out the selection from Bradigan's Incorporated in Kittanning, PA. Having served customers since 1952, they specialize in fast and efficient oil and fuel delivery throughout Armstrong and the surrounding counties. In addition to transmission fluid, they have many other products in stock to keep your car functioning correctly. See their full selection of motor oil and lubricants online, or call (724) 548-7654 to ask about their inventory.