How to check your transmission fluid on a suburban in Durham North Carolina

To check the transmission fluid on a Chevy Suburban in Durham, North Carolina (or anywhere), follow these steps:

Warm Up the Vehicle

Transmission fluid expands when warm, so drive your Suburban for about 10 minutes to bring the fluid to operating temperature. Make sure you’re parked on a level surface before proceeding.

Locate the Dipstick

Open the hood and find the transmission dipstick, usually located toward the back of the engine near the firewall. In most Chevy Suburbans, it’s labeled and has a red or yellow handle.

Check the Fluid Level

Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag.
Reinsert the dipstick fully, then pull it out again.
Check the fluid level, which should be between the “Full” and “Add” marks on the dipstick.

Check Fluid Condition

Healthy transmission fluid is typically pink or light red.
If the fluid is dark brown, smells burnt, or contains particles, it may need to be changed.

Add Fluid if Necessary

If the fluid level is low, use a funnel to slowly add the recommended transmission fluid type (consult your owner’s manual for the correct type).
Add a little at a time, rechecking the level until it reaches the proper mark.

Additional Tips:

Perform this check with the engine running and the transmission in “Park.”
Always use the type of transmission fluid specified in your Suburban’s manual.

By regularly checking your transmission fluid, you can maintain your vehicle’s health and avoid costly repairs. If you notice any problems or leaks, consider taking it to a local auto shop like Cottman Transmission in Durham, NC

To further ensure you’re checking your Chevy Suburban’s transmission fluid properly in Durham, NC, follow these additional tips and best practices:

Check at the Right Time

Engine Temperature: Always check when the engine is warm and running, as cold fluid will give inaccurate readings. Let the vehicle idle in “Park” after warming up to ensure the fluid has circulated through the system.
Time of Day: It’s a good idea to check your fluid during consistent times, such as before starting long trips or if you notice changes in how your Suburban shifts.

Transmission Fluid Types

Using the correct type of transmission fluid is critical for Chevy Suburbans, as using the wrong fluid can cause damage to the transmission system. Common options include Dexron VI fluid, but always check your vehicle’s manual or ask a mechanic in Durham for the proper fluid to avoid issues.

Fluid Level Safety

Don’t Overfill: Overfilling transmission fluid can cause pressure issues, leading to leaks or other internal damage. Add fluid slowly and check frequently to avoid overfilling.
Monitor After Adding Fluid: After adding fluid, recheck the level after driving a bit to ensure it’s consistent. If the level fluctuates or goes down again, it might indicate a leak or other issue.

Signs of Problems

Discolored Fluid: If the fluid is dark brown or black, it could be a sign of overheating or contamination. Transmission fluid should be changed if it’s in this condition to avoid damaging the transmission.
Fluid Odor: A burnt smell from the fluid is a sign of trouble. This may require not just a fluid change but also further inspection to ensure the transmission is not overheating or experiencing internal damage.

Durham Weather Considerations

Summer Heat: In warmer months in Durham, transmission fluid can thin out quicker due to high temperatures. Make sure to check the fluid more often during hot periods, especially if you’re doing a lot of driving.
Winter Cold: Cold weather can cause transmission fluid to thicken, so during colder months, give your vehicle a little more time to warm up before checking the fluid.

Regular Maintenance

Besides checking the fluid level, regular fluid changes are important. Most Chevy Suburbans recommend a transmission fluid change every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on the driving.

For all your transmission repair and service needs contact the experts at Cottman Transmission in Durham, NC today. To schedule your appointment visit us https://www.durhamtransmission.com/appointment/

Cottman Transmission Total Auto Care gets you back on the road faster, visit us at https://durhamtransmission.com/ or check us out on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/CottmanofDurham

For fastest response:

Call your Durham transmission repair center at (919) 372-0133 today