How To Know If Transmission Fluid Is Bad. A leak can starve your transmission of the fluid that cools and lubricates vital internal components. To determine if you need to change the fluid, wipe the dipstick on a white paper towel or cloth and observe the color of the transmission fluid.
Low transmission fluid in the system may also result in overheating of transmission, gears getting stuck, irregular car shifts, and slipping transmission. Symptoms of dirty transmission fluid include the presence of dirt and metal shavings in the fluid. This will help differentiate it from other types of automotive leaks.
You will need to check the level bolt or remove the bolt holding in the transmission fluid, and it can be difficult to do without the knowledge of a mechanic.
One of the definite signs of a bad transmission is the look of the fluid. If you notice the levels are lower than the full line marks, you need to add 1/4 to 1/2 quart of oil for the engine, and transmission fluid is usually staying at the same level, if you see the fluid level lower than normal, your transmisssion fluid could be leaking out of the seals or the color turns black not dark red as it is supposed to, you should take your car to a transmission mechanic to let him check it out,. Symptoms of dirty transmission fluid include the presence of dirt and metal shavings in the fluid. One of the most common dashboard warning signs is the transmission temperature.