What Color is Transmission Fluid?

Changing transmission fluid

One of the most common questions we’ve received at Ken Ganley Honda North Olmsted from Westlake drivers has been, “What color is transmission fluid?” A vehicle’s transmission fluid is dyed specifically for easy identification purposes. When it’s new, it’s dark red and translucent in color. 

What if you have red fluid leaking from your car? Learn more about this vital fluid and its properties in the guide from our service team near Olmsted Falls. If you have additional questions, call us at (440) 420-4387 or reach out online.

 


Transmission Fluid Color Guide

As your vehicle is driven around the Bay Village area, your transmission fluid will darken from age, but it can also be from contaminants getting past a malfunctioning transmission filter. Below, we’ve put together a basic fluid color guide you can use to determine if your system has an issue or if you 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 spot red fluid leaking from your car, it’s probably a transmission fluid leak. Luckily, this red color makes it easy to identify this problem. Other ways of identifying a transmission leak include the following:

  • Odor: Transmission fluid often has a smell similar to petroleum. If your fluid needs to be changed, it will smell burnt.
  • Consistency: Transmission fluid can look or feel oily and slick, much like brake fluid or engine oil.
  • Leak Location: Most transmission fluid leaks tend to be in front of the car from the middle.

Get Ahead of Transmission Problems

Keep the following maintenance tips in mind to avoid potential problems with your vehicle’s transmission:

  • Choose The Right Fluid: With many advanced automatic transmission systems available, it’s important to use the right automatic transmission fluid and genuine OEM parts.
  • Follow Your Owner’s Manual: Consult your owner’s manual to determine what fluid you’ll need to use and follow your maintenance schedule for your Honda vehicle.
  • Keep Up With Transmission Service: Regularly scheduled service visits will help catch any potential issues before they become severe.

Rely on Ken Ganley Honda North Olmsted for Your Service Needs

Now that you know the answer to “What color is transmission fluid?” you might have noticed a red fluid leaking from your car around Bay Village. Before scheduling service, check out our specials and see how much you might save on your next visit.

If you have any worn-out pieces on your vehicle, you can also order parts online from our dealership. Keep your vehicle at peak performance around Westlake with the Ken Ganley Honda North Olmsted service center!

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