What Color is Transmission Fluid?

If there is fluid leaking from your car and you aren’t sure what it is, you may wonder, “What color is transmission fluid?” Transmission fluid is dyed a special color for this exact reason. When it’s fresh, new transmission fluid is translucent and dark red in color. Learn more about transmission fluid and how its color may change over time as you commute in Matthews with the service center at Hendrick Porsche!

Transmission Fluid Color Guide

As you make your daily travels in Indian Trail and your transmission fluid ages, it will darken naturally. However, contaminants from outside being allowed to get past a faulty transmission filter can also cause it to darken, which is an issue that would require attention. To help you better understand whether the color of your transmission fluid is cause for concern, check it against our guide below:

• Brand-new fluid: Dark red
• Normal: Darker brick red
• Service your vehicle soon: Deep blood red/rust red
• Service your vehicle immediately: Burnt/almost black

What Does Red Fluid Leaking From a Car Mean?

Red fluid leaking from your car is most likely a transmission fluid leak. Additional ways to identify a transmission fluid leak include:

• Odor: Generally speaking, transmission fluid should smell like petroleum. If it is emitting a burnt smell instead, it means that in addition to fixing the leak, you should have a full transmission fluid replacement carried out as well.
• Consistency: If the red leaking fluid has a consistency that looks and feels oily and slick, it’s likely transmission fluid. Learn how to check transmission fluid in our guide.
• Location of the Leak: Transmission fluid tends to leak in the front middle area of a car.

Keep Transmission Issues at Bay

Avoid transmission fluid leaks and other issues by following these expert tips:

• Choose the Right Fluid: When you replace or top-off transmission fluid, it’s essential to use the right type of fluid for your make and model.
• Follow Your Owner’s Manual: Consult your owner’s manual to see what fluid to use, and to see the recommended maintenance schedule for your specific vehicle.
• Keep Up with Transmission Service: As with all mechanical systems in your car, keeping up with regularly scheduled transmission maintenance will point out potential issues before they have a chance to snowball. When you bring your vehicle to Hendrick Porsche near Pineville, we can tell you if any transmission parts need replacing or if a transmission flush is needed.

Schedule Transmission Service Online!

If there is red fluid leaking from your car or you think your transmission fluid’s color is off, schedule a service appointment with Hendrick Porsche. We’ll inspect your vehicle and make a recommendation. For a great price on service and maintenance, check out our rotating service specials! With any lingering questions, please contact us online or call us at (980) 224-4657.