What Color Should Transmission Fluid Be?

If you’re checking your transmission fluid and wondering, “What color should transmission fluid be?”, you aren’t alone. At Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Duluth, we hear this same question a lot from Lawrenceville and Suwanee drivers! When it’s still fresh, the transmission fluid is dark red and translucent. With that said, at what point should the color of your transmission fluid be a cause for concern? Join our service team below to learn more! We’ll answer the following questions: 

• What color is automatic transmission fluid?
• What color is CVT transmission fluid?
• How to identify a transmission fluid leak?

What Color is Transmission Fluid? Automatic vs. CVT

Depending on the type of transmission you have, you’ll either ask “What color is automatic transmission fluid?” or “What color is CVT transmission fluid?” In either case, the answer is the same: dark red and translucent. Over time, the color of your transmission fluid will darken. Learn about the stages of transmission fluid color to understand when it’s time for a fluid change:

• 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 

How to Identify a Transmission Fluid Leak? 

Now that you know the answer to “What color is transmission fluid?”, does the description match up with a recent fluid leak from your car? If there’s red fluid leaking from your car, it’s probably transmission fluid. Here are a few other ways to confirm your suspicion: 

• Scent: Transmission fluid smells like petroleum, but it may also smell burnt if it needs to be replaced.
• Feel: The look and feel of transmission fluid is similar to engine oil or brake fluid — oily and slick.
• Location: You will often find transmission fluid leaks toward the front middle of a car.

Avoiding Transmission Leaks and Other Problems

It’s not a good day when you walk outside and discover red fluid leaking from your car. Review these tips to help avoid transmission leaks and other issues:

• Use the Right Transmission Fluid: It’s crucial that you use the right type of fluid for your transmission! You can find this information in the owner’s manual.
• Refer to the Owner’s Manual: Speaking of the owner’s manual — it’s best not to stray from the manufacturer’s recommendations. Follow the maintenance schedule for your vehicle, and you shouldn’t run into unexpected problems.
• Don’t Skip Transmission Service: If you delay or skip a service visit, there could be an underlying problem that won’t be observed. This only leaves the issue to worsen, and you could eventually find yourself dealing with a fluid leak or worse.

Book Transmission Service at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Duluth!

Are transmission problems keeping you from enjoying your vehicle in Johns Creek? Book a service appointment at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Duluth! We can check and replace your fluid and make recommendations for any other problems you may have. Review our latest service offers for an opportunity to save!