For most automatic vehicles, the manufacturers suggest that the transmission fluid be checked every 30,000 to 40,000 miles. However, unless there is a noticeable issue, such as trouble shifting, most drivers forget all about maintaining their automatic transmission fluid. What eventually happens, is that by the time that a mechanic performs your regular maintenance tune-up, the repairs that you need are serious and expensive.

In part 4 of our "how to" series for monthly automotive maintenance, we are going to learn an easy to do, and easy to remember method of keeping our transmission fluid topped off, thereby keeping our engine running smoothly.

Checking the automatic transmission fluid Tips to know before you start 1. Your owner's manual will tell you which type of automatic transmission fluid you should be using. The two common types are Type F, and Dexron, also known as Mercron. Some carmakers, require specially designed, unique automatic transmission fluid for new models.2. Automatic transmission fluid does not get used up, if your fluid level is low, then you need to find the leak.3. When adding automatic transmission fluid, be very cautious, that the fluid does not accidentally come into contact with the exhaust manifold. If it does, it could cause a quick and furious engine fire.

The steps to take 1. Always check your operator's manual before you perform this maintenance check on a vehicle for the first time. Some makes of car need to have the engine running for this, and some do not. You could end up in serious trouble if you use the wrong procedure.2. Make sure the car is parked on a level part of the road or driveway.3. Leave the engine running, in park or in neutral, and give the engine a chance to warm up thoroughly. Unless your owner's manual states otherwise.4. The reservoir for automatic transmission fluid is actually in the transmission, located near the back of the engine.5. The dipstick for the automatic transmission fluid looks very similar to the dipstick for engine oil, once you locate it, pull it completely out, wipe it off, replace it, and now pull it completely back out again.6. On the dipstick, you will see two distinct level markings, one for a warm level reading, and one for a cold level reading.7. If the fluid level does not reach the full line for the warm reading, then you need to add transmission fluid.8. Be very careful not to over fill, adding too much causes the fluid to foam, and it could splash you, causing minor to sever irritation, or even burns to your skin or eyes.

The automatic transmission fluid is a translucent, reddish color when it is in good, clean condition. If the fluid in your transmission is a dark, murky red, or a blackish hue, then you will most likely need to have the transmission fluid flushed. This is a maintenance measure, best done by someone who has done it before.