What Color is Transmission Fluid?

If you’re seeing a red fluid leaking from your car, you may be wondering “what color is transmission fluid?” Transmission fluid is dyed for identification purposes and can range from dark red to almost black depending on its age. Your transmission is arguably the most important part of your engine, and if you’re seeing red fluid dripping from under the car, then it’s time to investigate. Learn more about why your transmission might be leaking and what you can do about it with Edwards CDJR in Council Bluffs. If you have any questions, reach out to our service department! 

A Color Guide to Transmission Fluid

As we said above, the color of your transmission fluid will depend on its age. When transmission fluid is brand new it will be an unmistakable dark red, but as your drive around Omaha it will turn to a burnt, rusty color and then eventually turn black if you don’t change it. Below, we’ve made a guide on what action you should take depending on what color your transmission fluid is:

• 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 

What do You do if Red Fluid is Leaking From Your Car 

If you notice red fluid leaking from your car as you shop for errands in Bellevue, you most likely have a transmission fluid leak. Since transmission fluid is dyed for easy identification, it’s relatively easy to spot. If you’re unsure, however, here are some other ways to identify if that leak is transmission fluid: 

• Odor: Transmission fluid will smell like gas. If the fluid needs to be changed, it will smell burnt.
• Consistency: Transmission fluid will look and feel oily like engine oil or brake fluid.
• Location of the Leak: Transmission fluid tends to leak in the front middle of the car.

Stay Ahead of Transmission Problems

Your transmission works to provide the right amount of power to your wheels to drive at any given speed in La Vista. As a vital part of your engine, maintaining your transmission is critical to keep your vehicle running properly. To prevent any damage to your transmission, keep these tips in mind:

• Pick the Right Fluid: With each new generation of cars, the engine gets more complicated. For this reason it’s important to get the right transmission fluid to ensure your transmission will run properly. Refer to your owners manual or contact your local dealership to find out which transmission fluid your vehicle needs. 
• Keep To Your Maintenance Schedule: A vehicle that is maintained according to it’s recommended maintenance schedule will last longer and have fewer issues than one that does not. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual to see when you should have your car serviced. 
• Keep Up with Transmission Service: Regularly scheduled servicewill catch and transmission issues before they become severe. Additionally, your local dealership service experts will know when to inspect and replace transmission components or perform a transmission flush. 

Service Your Vehicle at Edwards CDJR!

Whether you need a tire rotation or if you notice your transmission fluid is dark red or black, visit our service department and have your vehicle serviced and inspected. We’ll have your vehicle running like new in no time! Before you make an appointment, browse our online service specials to get additional savings on routine maintenance. For more DIY service advice, read our service tips to see how you can change your oil or learn what antifreeze is.