What Color is Transmission Fluid?

Have you seen a red fluid leaking from a car and asked yourself this question? Transmission fluid has been dyed red so you and your mechanic can easily identify this important vehicle fluid. The service center at Don Ringler Toyota elaborates upon what to do when you see red fluid leaking from your car, how to check transmission fluid, and more below!

Transmission Fluid Colors for Manual to Automatic Transmission

So what color is transmission fluid on your particular type of transmission? On any new vehicle, whether it has manual or automatic transmission, transmission fluid starts out in a dark red color. But as you drive down Belton and Killeen roads, your transmission fluid is exposed to dirt and debris, resulting in color changes:

Transmission Fluid Color Guide: 

• Dark Red: Your transmission fluid is brand new
• Brick Red: You’ve used your car for a bit, but it’s still a very normal quality.
• Deep Red: If it looks more like blood or rust, you’ll need to schedule service soon!
• Burnt Red/Black: At this state, you’re close to an emergency! Schedule service immediately.

Good transmission work is just like an oil change in the sense that it’s best to consult a parts center using OEM parts to find the best transmission fluid for your vehicle. The advanced automatic transmission on new models of the Corolla, for example, provides plenty of benefits but has to be treated with love and care!

Transmission Fluid Leaks: Symptoms and Fixes

Is there a red fluid leaking from your car? As we’ve covered above, you’re likely looking at a transmission fluid leak. Want to further verify beyond asking, “What color is transmission fluid”? Here are other signs that indicate a transmission fluid leak:

• Location of the Leak: Your transmission fluid would be leaking right out of the engine bay if it’s indeed transmission fluid. This is in the front-and-center area of your vehicle.
• Odor: Healthy transmission fluid smells like petroleum, while fluid that needs changing smells burnt.
• Consistency: If there’s a red fluid leaking from your car, confirm it’s transmission fluid by examining it for consistency. Like engine oil or brake fluid, transmission fluid is slick and oily.

Once you’ve confirmed that your leak is transmission fluid, you’ll want to find a Waco service center right away to help. Some dealerships include transmission fluid work and other essential engine fluid changes among their service specials, so keep an eye out!

Expert Car Maintenance is Just Around the Bend

Don’t worry if your transmission fluid is leaking — the experts at Don Ringler Toyota can help you get back on Temple roads quickly. Find out more about express maintenance on our website and contact us today with any questions you may have!