Where and How to Add Automatic Transmission Oil: A Beginner's Guide

Automatic transmission maintenance is crucial to the life of your vehicle. Knowing how to check and change this fluid will allow you to prevent costly repairs. Thinking about it, in this article we will tell you where to put the automatic transmission oil and how to add it.

What is the purpose of oil in an automatic transmission?

ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) is a fluid specifically designed for automatic transmissions. Its main function is to transmit the force generated by the engine to the wheels, while lubricating and cooling the internal components of the transmission, ensuring smooth and efficient operation.

Where do I put the transmission oil?

To put in the transmission oil, you will need to find the dipstick located in the engine compartment. This dipstick will tell you the fluid level and the exact place where you should add more.

• For rear-wheel drive vehicles: Rear-wheel drive cars usually have the oil dipstick at the rear of the engine, near the transmission.
• For front-wheel drive vehicles: In front-wheel drive cars, the transmission oil dipstick is commonly located at the front of the engine, close to the transaxle.

Confusion between the transmission dipstick and engine dipstick is a common occurrence. However, manufacturers have incorporated clear identifiers on the dipsticks to make it easier to distinguish between them.

How to add transmission fluid?

When you remove the dipstick, you will notice a scale with markings indicating oil levels for different engine temperatures. Compare the current level with the markings and add the amount of fluid needed to reach the correct level.

A special funnel will help you pour transmission oil accurately and safely. The design of the funnel fits the filler hole, preventing the oil from overflowing or spilling into other parts of the engine.

If you are still in doubt about how to add transmission fluid, consider the following tips:

• Always engage the parking brake before performing any checks. This will prevent the vehicle from moving accidentally.
• To ensure an accurate fluid level reading, it is recommended that the engine has been running for at least 30 minutes. This allows the fluid to reach its optimum operating temperature.
• With the engine running and the parking brake engaged, move the shift lever through all positions. This action ensures that the entire transmission system is lubricated and that the fluid level is correct in all components.

Following these steps will ensure an accurate measurement of the transmission oil level. In this way, you will be able to maintain your vehicle efficiently and avoid unnecessary costs due to wasted fluid.

How often should an automatic transmission oil be changed?

The frequency of automatic transmission oil changes may vary depending on the manufacturer and the vehicle's conditions of use. However, specialists advise performing this service every 50,000 to 100,000 kilometers, especially if the oil has not been changed more than twice.

At Sun Transmissions, our online store offers excellent quality automatic transmission oils, as well as a variety of products that include power steering rebuild kits, automatic transmission filters, sensors, coolers or automatic transmission selenoids.

For a quotation or personalized advice, please do not hesitate to contact us at support@suntransmissions.com. We will be glad to assist you.