So, What Color is Transmission Fluid?

Our service team often gets asked the question “What color is transmission fluid?” You may be surprised to find out that transmission fluid is dyed to help identify it. Initially, it will be a translucent, dark red color. Explore more about transmission fluid and its importance with Mercedes-Benz of Princeton. Contact our service center at Mercedes-Benz of Princeton if you have any questions, and schedule a service to get back on the road in Princeton and Hamilton.

A Color Guide for Transmission Fluid

With time and vehicle use the transmission fluid will change in color, this can also occur from contaminants getting past a malfunctioning transmission filter. Here you will find a basic color guide. You can use this guide to help determine whether your transmission system has an issue or you just need to get a transmission fluid replacement: 

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

Red Fluid Leaking from Car: Significance 

If you have noticed there is red fluid leaking from your car, it’s probably a transmission fluid leak. The good thing is the red color makes it easy to identify the problem. Other ways to identify a transmission leak include:

• Odor: Transmission fluid will smell like burnt petroleum. If the fluid needs to be changed, it will smell burnt.
• Consistency: Transmission fluid will look and feel oily and slick like engine oil or brake fluid.
• Location of the Leak: Transmission fluid usually leaks in the front of the car from the middle. 

Stay on Top of Transmission Problems

These are some tips to keep in mind in case you find yourself dealing with transmission problems: 

• Choose the Right Fluid: More advanced automatic transmission systems available mean it’s crucial to be sure that you have the right automatic transmission fluid and genuine OEM parts are being used. 
• Follow the Owner’s Manual: Consult your owner’s manual to see what fluid you should use. Your manual will have a recommended maintenance schedule for your specific vehicle. 
• Keep Up with Transmission Service: Regularly scheduled service is crucial if you want to catch potential issues early on. Your local authorized dealership will know when to inspect and replace transmission components or perform a transmission flush. 

Come Visit Mercedes-Benz of Princeton for Your Service Needs

If you find your transmission fluid color is too dark, your car is leaking, or you smell a burnt scent coming from your engine area, and you want to identify the issue, schedule service at Mercedes-Benz of Princeton. We will get your vehicle back on Mercer County roads and in working condition ASAP. Be sure to check out our parts and service specials to get a great deal!