How to Check Your Transmission Fluid

Changing transmission fluid
 

The transmission is one of the most complicated and critical mechanical features of your vehicle, so it is vitally important that you make sure that it is working properly and that you have the correct amount of transmission fluid. Knowing how to check transmission fluid can help you avoid hefty repair bills down the road. So, how often do you check your transmission fluid? Our service team recommends that you check the transmission fluid, as well as the brake fluid, motor oil, power steering fluid, and windshield wiper fluid at least once a month. Your owner’s manual will have the schedule for your specific BMW model. If you can’t access your owner’s manual, contact the service team at BMW of Gwinnett Place for assistance. Learn more about how to check your transmission fluid in this guide from the experts in our Duluth service center.

 

 

Follow These Steps on How to Check Your Transmission Fluid

Checking the transmission fluid in your BMW is relatively simple. Just follow these steps:

  1. Start the car and let it run for a few minutes in order to warm up the engine.
  2. Locate the transmission fluid dipstick. It will usually be located to the right of the oil dipstick. If you’re having trouble finding the dipstick, check your owner’s manual.
  3. Remove the dipstick and check the color and consistency of the fluid. It should be nearly clear, with a pink hue.
  4. Use a rag to wipe off the dipstick, and insert it back into the vehicle. Pull it out again and check the level. If it’s under the “Full” marking, you’ll need to add more.
  5. Using a funnel, add enough transmission fluid to bring the level up to full. Make sure that you don’t overfill it.

If the transmission fluid looks dirty or has a burnt smell, you should bring the vehicle to the service center at BMW of Gwinnett Place as soon as you can. Our certified technicians can inspect your transmission and drain and replace the fluid, so you can get safely back on the roads in and around Atlanta.

More About Transmission Fluid

The best way to ensure that your transmission continues to operate in top condition on the roads in and around Lawrenceville is to keep up to date with your scheduled service inspections. How often do you check your transmission fluid? As previously noted, you should check the level of your transmission fluid, brake fluid, motor oil, power-steering fluid, and windshield wiper fluid once a month. Here’s some additional information regarding transmission fluid:

  • There are different types of transmission fluid available, so you should consult your owner’s manual to determine which is right for your vehicle. You can find the correct type of transmission fluid for your BMW model in the parts center at BMW of Gwinnett Place. 
  • Checking the fluid on a manual transmission will require a jack to access the plug located beneath the car. However, most Lawrenceville-area drivers prefer to have our professional technicians handle the job.
  • Does your car hesitate when switching gears? It could be due to low transmission fluid, or it may be a sign of a more serious problem. Check the fluid level, if it’s full and the fluid is clean, but you’re still experiencing hesitation, schedule service with us as soon as possible.
  • Transmission fluid should be changed every 50,000 to 100,000 miles, but it depends on your driving habits, the type of transmission, and other factors. Your owner’s manual will have your specific replacement interval.

Learn More About How to Check Your Transmission Fluid at BMW of Gwinnett Place

How often do you check your transmission fluid? It’s a good idea to check all of the important fluids in your vehicle at least once a month. If you are in need of transmission service, an oil change, or any maintenance or repair service, you can count on the skilled technicians at BMW of Gwinnett Place in Duluth. Our prices are very competitive, and we also offer rotating service specials and coupons that can help you save on a variety of maintenance services. We’re here to help keep your BMW running safely at peak performance levels, so come see us today!

Service Specials at BMW of Gwinnett Place

Value Service

Save money with the BMW Value Service

  • $119.99
  • $149.99
  • $179.99

Oil change pricing varies by model and engine type. Visit our Value Service website to find your exact pricing and explore additional BMW Value Service offers. Available on select services and models.

Value Service

DEF is not included for Diesel vehicles. Oil Service utilizes only premium synthetic Original BMW Engine Oil. Oil viscosities may vary by model. Prices include oil, parts and labor. Topping off diesel emission fluid is not included. Applies specifically to certain BMW models included in the Value Service Program. Taxes and additional costs may apply. BMW Value Service available only at participating authorized BMW Centers. All work is carried out by BMW Trained Technicians using Original BMW Parts, which come with a two-year unlimited mileage limited warranty. Warranty repairs do not constitute an extension of the original limited warranty period for the vehicle or a part thereof. Service availability and pricing may vary for non-standard options, including M Sport options and equipment.

BMW Oil Change Plan

3 Years for $249

BMW Oil Change Plan (3 years) includes oil and oil filter changes for three years including labor for $249.00 plus taxes and disposal fees where applicable.

BMW Oil Change Plan (3 years) includes oil and oil filter changes for three years including labor for $249.00 plus taxes and disposal fees where applicable. Maximum 2 oil changes per contract year. The need for included services are prompted by the vehicle’s Condition Based Service (CBS) system. For non-CBS vehicles, annual low-mileage oil changes are included as outlined in your BMW Maintenance Booklet. Available for all BMW vehicles that have reached 60 months or 60,000 miles but have not yet exceeded 240 months / 20 years and have no current Ultimate Care+ coverage. Plan is also available for purchase for vehicles that have reached at least 54 months and are currently covered by the BMW Ultimate Care Scheduled or BMW Ultimate Care+ 2 coverage. All work must be performed by an authorized BMW Center. All work is carried out by BMW Trained Technicians using Original BMW Parts, which come with a two-year unlimited mileage limited warranty. Please see your authorized BMW Center and https://www.bmwusaservice.com/ultimatecare for additional details. BMW Oil Change Plan (3 years) is only available at participating dealers. Not available in Delaware, Wisconsin, Florida, or New Hampshire. © 2025 BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW trademarks are registered trademarks.

Military & First Responders

10% OFF

Parts purchase for any Military or First Responder

*Military and First Responders special discount coupon. Not valid with any other offer and does not apply to prior purchases. Discount up to $150. Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. Amount not inclusive of taxes and fees. Special may not be combined with other offers. BMW Vehicles only. Void where prohibited. Limit of (1) special applied per purchase. Other restrictions may apply, see dealer for details. Expires end of month. The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.

Expires: 09/30/2026

Ultimate Care+

$100 OFF

$100 Off Ultimate Care Plus Prepaid Maintenance Plans

*Amount not inclusive of taxes and fees. Special may not be combined with other offers. BMW Vehicles only. Void where prohibited. Limit of (1) special applied per purchase. Other restrictions may apply, see dealer for details.

Expires: 09/30/2026

Brake Flush

$50 OFF

Brake Flush

*Amount not inclusive of taxes and fees. Special may not be combined with other offers. BMW Vehicles only. Void where prohibited. Limit of (1) special applied per purchase. Other restrictions may apply, see dealer for details. Expires end of month.

Expires: 09/30/2026

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3264 Commerce Ave NW, Duluth, GA, 30096
BMW of Gwinnett Place 33.9589829, -84.1191869.