Best way of checking oil or transmission fluids
03-19-2004, 12:29 PM
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Best way of checking oil or transmission fluids
I was told by someone the best way to check transmission fluid is while the car is running. Is this true?
Also, I should engine oil after its been running for a while (warm) or when its (cold).
Also, I should engine oil after its been running for a while (warm) or when its (cold).
03-19-2004, 08:06 PM
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95 E320 Cabriolet, 108K
Your owner's manual should tell you in detail how to check fluids.
Transmission fluid is checked with the car on a level surface, after going through all the gears, pausing just a few seconds at each detent, finishing in park, and after the car has been warmed up by a good run on the road. The fluid should be checked the same way each time. It's also important to avoid any contamination on the dipstick. One method is to wipe the dipstick clean with your fingers, then clean your fingers on a rag.
Engine oil should be checked with the engine off. If it's been run, then wait a few minutes. Again, check the same way each time. Don't get too excited if the oil is half a quart low. The dipstick is not a finely calibrated laboratory instrument. Your best bet is to check the oil after an oil change, when you know you have the specified charge in the crankcase. That measurement would then be the basis from where you compare all your checks. Just do it the same way each time, whether it's in the morning before starting, a few minutes after shutting the car off, or after dinner.
Transmission fluid is checked with the car on a level surface, after going through all the gears, pausing just a few seconds at each detent, finishing in park, and after the car has been warmed up by a good run on the road. The fluid should be checked the same way each time. It's also important to avoid any contamination on the dipstick. One method is to wipe the dipstick clean with your fingers, then clean your fingers on a rag.
Engine oil should be checked with the engine off. If it's been run, then wait a few minutes. Again, check the same way each time. Don't get too excited if the oil is half a quart low. The dipstick is not a finely calibrated laboratory instrument. Your best bet is to check the oil after an oil change, when you know you have the specified charge in the crankcase. That measurement would then be the basis from where you compare all your checks. Just do it the same way each time, whether it's in the morning before starting, a few minutes after shutting the car off, or after dinner.
