Check the ATF only after the transmission has been warmed up to operating temperature.

Park on a level spot, put on the handbrake, leave the engine running at idle, and locate the ATF dipstick.

This might be located along the back of the engine, but there are other possible places, depending on the make and model of the engine and transmission.

Consult the owner’s manual or an auto technician if you are not sure.

Do not confuse the transmission dipstick with the oil level dipstick. The ATF dipstick usually is much shorter and has writing on it, indicating what it does.

Pull the dipstick out and wipe it with a clean paper towel.

Re-insert it and check the level several times until the readings seem consistent.

The fluid is moving around and has a tendency to splash a bit giving changes in readings.

If the level is low, fluid is added using a small funnel down the dipstick tube itself.

It’s very important to use the correct fluid for your particular vehicle and that information is likely both stamped on the dipstick itself and printed in the owner’s manual.

The fluid should be a nice red or pink colour, not brown or smell burnt.