The question of whether or not to add transmission fluid while your car is running is a common one among car owners. Some people believe that it’s necessary to add fluid while the engine is running to ensure that the fluid reaches all parts of the transmission. However, this is not the case. In fact, adding transmission fluid while the engine is running can be dangerous.
Why You Shouldn’t Add Transmission Fluid While Your Car is Running
- Risk of burns⁚ When you add transmission fluid to a hot transmission, the fluid can splash back and cause serious burns. This is especially true if the fluid level is low and the transmission is running hot.
- Fluid overfill⁚ Adding fluid while the engine is running can lead to overfilling the transmission. This can cause the fluid to leak out of the dipstick tube or other seals, leading to a mess and potential damage to your car.
- Air bubbles in the fluid⁚ Adding fluid while the engine is running can introduce air bubbles into the transmission fluid. These air bubbles can interfere with the transmission’s ability to shift smoothly, causing problems with your car’s performance.
The Right Way to Add Transmission Fluid
The safest and most effective way to add transmission fluid is to do so with the engine off and the car parked on a level surface. Follow these steps⁚
- Warm up the transmission⁚ Drive the car for a few minutes to warm up the transmission fluid. This will allow the fluid to flow more freely and provide an accurate reading on the dipstick.
- Park on a level surface⁚ Ensure the car is parked on a level surface so the fluid level is accurate.
- Check the dipstick⁚ Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag. Reinsert the dipstick and remove it again to check the fluid level.
- Add fluid⁚ Add the correct type of transmission fluid as specified in your car’s owner’s manual. Add a small amount at a time, checking the dipstick after each addition.
- Wipe up any spills⁚ Clean up any spills immediately with a rag.
When to Add Transmission Fluid
You should only add transmission fluid if you notice the following⁚
- Low fluid level⁚ If the dipstick shows a low fluid level, you may need to add more fluid.
- Transmission slipping⁚ If your transmission is slipping, it could be a sign that the fluid is low or contaminated.
- Rough shifting⁚ If your transmission is shifting roughly, it could be a sign of a problem with the fluid or the transmission itself.
If you are unsure whether or not to add transmission fluid, or if you are experiencing any problems with your transmission, it is best to consult a qualified mechanic.