What Color is Transmission Fluid?
One of the most common questions our service team gets asked is, “What color is transmission fluid?” Transmission fluid is specially dyed for identification purposes. When it’s brand-new, it’s translucent and dark red in color. Learn more about this vital car fluid and its properties at Val Ward Cadillac near Cape Coral and Naples. Be sure to contact our service centerif you have any questions!
Transmission Fluid Color Guide
Your vehicle’s transmission fluid color will darken from age and vehicle use, but it can also be from contaminants getting past a malfunctioning transmission filter. Below, you’ll find our basic color guide used to determine whether your transmission system has an issue or you simply need transmission fluid replacement:
- Brand-new fluid: Dark red
- Normal: Darker brick red
- Service your vehicle soon: Deep blood red/rust-red
- Service your vehicle immediately: Burnt/almost black
Red Fluid Leaking from Car: What Does it Mean?
If you notice red fluid leaking from your car, it’s most likely a transmission fluid leak. Thankfully, the red color makes it easy to identify the problem. Other ways to identify a transmission leak include:
- Odor: Transmission fluid usually smells like petroleum. If the fluid needs to be changed, it’ll smell burnt.
- Consistency: Transmission fluid will look/feel oily and slick like the engine oil or brake fluid.
- Location of the Leak: Transmission fluid tends to leak in front of the car from the middle.
Get Ahead of Transmission Problems
Keep the following tips in mind to prevent future problems with your car’s transmission:
- Choose the Right Fluid: With more advanced automatic transmission systems available, it’s important to make sure the right automatic transmission fluid and genuine OEM parts are used.
- Follow Your Owner’s Manual: Consult your owner’s manual to see what fluid to use and see the recommended maintenance schedule for your specific vehicle.
- Keep Up with Transmission Service: Regularly scheduled servicecan help catch issues before they become severe, and your local authorized dealership will know when you inspect and replace transmission components or perform a transmission flush.
Rely on Val Ward Cadillac for Your Service Needs!
If your transmission fluid color is too dark or your car is leaking, and you want to identify the issue, schedule serviceat Val Ward Cadillac, and we can help get your vehicle back on Bonita Springs roads. Don’t forget to check out our parts and service coupons so you don’t miss out on a great deal!
