Adding transmission fluid to your car or light truck is a common part of any vehicle-maintenance routine. Most cars and light trucks follow the same procedure. It is always a good habit to check fluid levels like the transmission fluid and oil whenever you fill the gas tank. Doing so will help prevent unnecessary repairs.
Start the engine and allow it to run to operating temperature.
Locate the transmission fluid dipstick. On most cars it is red or orange in color and is located near the firewall. Refer to the service manual of your specific vehicle for the exact location. Pull the dipstick out of its tube and wipe it off with a shop towel.
Insert the transmission funnel into the dipstick tube. A transmission funnel is unusually long and narrow so that it can reach into the dipstick tube. Open the quart or transmission fluid and add fluid by pouring it into the funnel 1 pint (1/2 quart) at a time. Check the level of the fluid by removing the funnel and inserting the dipstick fully into the tube and then pulling it out. The full level is indicated by a crosshatched area on the stick; add fluid until it reaches this level. Reinstall the dipstick into the tube.
