Keeping an eye on your car’s fluids is one of the simplest — yet most important — things you can do to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Among the fluids that keep everything ticking under the bonnet, engine oil and transmission fluid are two big ones. But a lot of people either forget about them or aren’t quite sure how to check them properly.
Don’t worry — it’s easier than it sounds. Whether you’re a first-time car owner or just want to make sure you’re not missing something basic, this guide will walk you through it step by step.
Why Checking These Fluids Matters
Think of your car like a body. The engine oil is the lifeblood of your engine, and the transmission fluid is like joint fluid — it keeps everything shifting and moving without grinding. Low or dirty fluids can lead to overheating, wear, or even full-blown breakdowns. Regular checks help catch problems early and can extend your car’s lifespan.
What You’ll Need
Before we dive in, grab a few things:
- Clean paper towels or a rag
- Gloves (optional, but helpful)
- A well-lit area
- Your car’s owner manual (for specific fluid locations or tips)
Bonus: Try to check fluids when your car is on level ground and the engine is cool (or at least not blazing hot).
Step-by-Step: How to Check Engine Oil
- Pop the bonnet: Locate the release lever inside your car, usually near the driver’s side footwell. Then prop the bonnet up safely.
- Find the dipstick: Look for a handle or ring, often coloured yellow or orange. This is the engine oil dipstick.
- Pull it out and wipe it clean: Use your rag or paper towel to clean the dipstick. This gives you a clear reading.
- Reinsert the dipstick: Slide it all the way back in, wait a second, then pull it out again.
- Check the level and colour: The dipstick will have indicators (like “Low” and “Full” or two dots/lines). The oil should be near the top mark. It should also be golden or amber in colour. If it’s dark, gritty, or smells burnt, it’s time for a change.
- Top up if needed: If the oil is low, grab the recommended oil type (check your manual) and pour slowly into the oil filler cap (not the dipstick tube!).
Pro tip: Don’t overfill — too much oil can cause engine issues too.
Step-by-Step: How to Check Transmission Fluid (For Automatics)
Note: This step varies by car — some newer vehicles don’t have a dipstick and require professional servicing. Check your manual first.
- Warm up your car: Unlike engine oil, transmission fluid should be checked when the car is warm and running (parked safely with the handbrake on).
- Find the transmission dipstick: Usually at the back of the engine bay, often red or pink-handled.
- Wipe, reinsert, and check: Same process as engine oil — wipe it clean, reinsert, pull it out, and check the level. It should be within the marked range.
- Check the fluid’s condition: Transmission fluid should be pink or reddish. If it’s brown or smells burnt, it’s time for a service.
- Add fluid if needed: Use a funnel and the correct transmission fluid type. Go slow and only add small amounts at a time.
What If You Drive a Manual?
Manual transmission fluid is usually not checked with a dipstick — it’s sealed and requires checking from underneath the car. This is best left to a mechanic unless you’re confident working under the vehicle.
A Few Extra Tips
- Check regularly: Once a month is a good habit.
- Check after long drives or towing: These put extra strain on your fluids.
- Watch for leaks: Puddles under the car could signal a problem. Transmission fluid is usually reddish; engine oil is brown or amber.
Before You Hit the Road Again
Getting into the habit of checking your engine oil and transmission fluid takes just a few minutes and can save you thousands in repairs down the track. It’s the kind of simple car care that even non-mechanics can manage — no need to wait until something goes wrong.
So next time you’ve got five minutes and a quiet moment in the driveway, give it a go. Your car (and wallet) will thank you.
If you are in Berwick, Victoria 3806, and looking for a car removal service, this is the best way to visit us.
Contact Us
Galaxy Cars Removal
10 Silvergum Pl, Cranbourne VIC 3977
0413 176 223