DIY automatic transmission fluid checking
1. Park the car on a level spot, leaving the shifter set at the PARK setting.
2. Open the hood, and pull out the http://www.samarins.com/maintenance/simple.html#engineoilcheck dipstick. Consult the manual for the exact location.
3. Wipe the dipstick with a clean and lint free cloth, and then carefully return the dipstick to its proper place.
4. Pull out the dipstick again and examine the fluid. If it is black or brown (normal transmission fluid is either clear and transparent or reddish), it recommended to change the fluid immediately, but best consult your manual first as some car models do not require the change of automatic transmission fluid. Also, the markers should be at the HOT level when the engine is still hot, and at the COLD marker when the engine is not being used or has just been run.
