What Color Is Transmission Fluid?
Many vehicle fluids have been dyed for easy identification, and transmission fluid is no exception. Newer transmission fluid is a translucent dark red color, but over time, it will become even darker through use. Learn more about this important fluid with Marietta Toyota, and if you ever notice it pooling beneath your vehicle, don’t hesitate to schedule service!
Transmission Fluid Color Guide
Transmission fluid naturally takes on a darker, deeper color as you drive, but in some cases, its appearance will be a sign that you require service. Here are the signs you should look for:
- If your transmission fluid is a dark, translucent red, it’s either new or like-new. As long as you haven’t leaked too much of the fluid, you’re good to go!
- Once it’s spent a few months or years in your vehicle, it will start to take on a darker, brick red color. This is normal, and you have nothing to worry about.
- If your transmission fluid is blood red or rust red in color, then you should schedule service in the near future.
- If your transmission fluid appears burnt or near-black in color, then you should take your vehicle directly to the nearest Marietta service center.
Red Fluid Leaking From Car
Red fluid leaking from your car is almost always transmission fluid. Although this makes it easy to identify the problem, there are a few other things you should consider when assessing the issue:
- Location: Transmission fluid will generally leak from the front of the car, toward the middle. If the leak is coming from elsewhere, you might be dealing with another fluid that has been discolored by rust.
- Odor: New or gently used transmission fluid will usually smell like petroleum. If you notice a burnt smell, there’s a good chance that it needs to be changed immediately.
- Consistency: Transmission fluid is fairly viscous, and it will look and feel oily. If it’s taken on a different consistency, then you might be dealing with a deeper issue or some sort of fluid contamination.
Know the Signs of Transmission Problems
- Your transmission is one of the most complex components in your vehicle. When it needs to be serviced, make sure you take it to a trained and certified technician. Only use the recommended transmission fluid, and make sure all repairs are carried out with genuine OEM parts.
- If you have a question about a transmission problem that you’re facing, start by consulting your vehicle’s owner’s manual. If you can’t find the answer right away, call an expert at Marietta Toyota who will talk through the problem with you.
- When all else fails, regularly scheduled service can help you catch the worst problems before they cause an accident or ruin your vehicle for good. Make sure to keep up with your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule.
Service Your Vehicle with Marietta Toyota
When you’re in need of Toyota service near Smyrna, come to Marietta Toyota to get the help you need! If you have questions like, “Are car wash add-ons are worth it?” or, “What color is transmission fluid,” we are here to help! We’ve made it easy to schedule service online, and when you take advantage of our rotating service specials, you can save big on the maintenance, repairs, or parts you need most. You’ll even be able to enjoy a wide variety of amenities while you’re here!