Hi Guys

I was taught to check transmission fluid when the engine is up to normal running temps, however last time I checked mine, I noticed that on one side of the dipstick it says HOT and the other side COLD.

Am I just a "dipstick" or can you actually check it cold using the other side as a gauge?

Cheers

 

The 'cold' side never gives a good reading IMHO. It's useful, though, to determine if you have enough fluid to drive the car 10-15 miles so a proper 'hot' reading can be taken !

Cheers
DD

 

as said cold is a general reference hot is a accurate check.

 

Cool guys. Thanks for clarifying that. It makes alot more sense now.

 

I was once told the cold gauge is a guide for filling when a service has been done, as Doug said above to be able to drive the car to get an accurate reading.

 

Cheers Clarke

Yeah I only noticed it last time I was home and thought WTH? I always check a few times when I'm home after we found it pretty low that time. But yeah I guess as a rough guide at least you know something is in there and it's not bone dry.

 

After I do a ATF drain and fill on any vehicle, I always check it hot and also check it for a few days after. I would think that if the car has been driven for months and the ATF is at the cold reading or a little higher, then the fluid level is fine.

 

Paul, you know how many times I've checked mine in 6 years? Once! Quit being neurotic and enjoy the car! If it drives fine and shifts fine, it's fine. You're going to wear the dipstick out!😃

 

I agree with most of the responses here that the Hot check is the most accurate and is the one to be relied on.

One thing not mentioned about the Cold check is that during service it does two things;

1. Ensure there is enough fluid for initial start-up.
2. Prevent overfilling.

Some transmissions can be damaged if too much fluid is installed.

Filling to the Cold line prevents overfilling and should indicate a correct Hot reading once the fluid is warm and has expanded.

Mark

 

Thanks Mark.

That seems pretty logical. I didn't know that