Fluid too clean

[GenesisGuy70]

Having a heck of a time getting an accurate transmission fluid level read on the dipstick. The fluid is so clean that I can't make out where the level is and the dumb case design makes the flexible dipstick rub against the sides on pullout (

).

Any tips?

 

[andyd]

If the transmission doesn't slip during the first upshift of a cold start, then the level is adequate

 

[The motor guy]

Originally Posted By: andyd
If the transmission doesn't slip during the first upshift of a cold start, then the level is adequate


That's not true. The fluid level in my transmission got too low one time and it acted fine until I made a couple stops and I thought everything was fine until about the third stop when the transmission almost stalled the engine due to the pump sucking air for a second and causing the truck to lunge forward.

 

[eljefino]

Put the stick on a paper towel and watch the fluid blot away. About 2-3 seconds in is your sweet spot, when it's still caterpillar shaped and not yet just a blob.

 

[Donald]

Take out and immediately hold it horizontal, not vertical. Look at front and back. Trying laying a piece of paper towel on top of dipstick and see if that helps. Its not cherry red?

I would not pull it out/re-insert more than twice before waiting an hour. When you pull out and re-insert you get ATF all over the bends in the dipstick tube and the more times you pull it out and re-insert the more odd the readings will be.

 

[2009Edge]

All of this will be mute point in a couple years when NO vehicle will have a dipstick in the transmission.

 

[Rolla07]

Just put in same amount that you removed..and after you drive it awhile you should see it on the dipstick. Maybe try checking at night with a flashlight? Might be easier to see?

 

[Lubener]

Some manufacturers give indications when checking it cold which might be easier to see. Following their procedures, if the level is somewhere in the "add" area when cold, I would think the level would be OK. By the time the fluid expands, it likely would end up near the full line. I have a Mercury and a Dodge and it is possible on both to check cold.

 

[paltex]

When you pull the stick to check, sprinkle a little baby powder to determine level then ypu will know. be sure to wipe it all off clean before re-insertion of dip stick