How to read the transmission oil dipstick? A comprehensive guide
Transmission oil is the "blood" of the vehicle's transmission system. Regularly checking its condition and oil volume is crucial to extending the life of the transmission. This article will introduce in detail how to correctly check the transmission oil dipstick, and attach recent hot topic data for reference.
1. Recent hot topic data (last 10 days)

| Ranking | Topic Category | heat index | typical content | 
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New energy vehicles | 9.8 | Solid-state battery technology breakthrough | 
| 2 | car maintenance | 8.5 | Transmission oil replacement cycle controversy | 
| 3 | Intelligent driving | 7.9 | L3 level autonomous driving regulations implemented | 
| 4 | Oil price dynamics | 7.2 | Analysis of international crude oil price fluctuations | 
2. 6 steps to check the transmission oil dipstick
1.Preparation: The vehicle must be parked on a level road with the engine running (some models require shutdown for inspection, please refer to the manual)
2.find the dipstick: Usually a red or yellow handle, located in the engine compartment near the firewall
| Vehicle type | typical location | 
|---|---|
| front drive sedan | Driver's side engine rear | 
| SUV/off-road vehicle | Middle right side of engine | 
| rear drive sports car | Engine left front | 
3.Clean the dipstick: Wipe clean with a lint-free cloth after pulling it out for the first time.
4.secondary measurement: Fully reinsert the dipstick tube and pull it out again
5.Read oil level: Observe that the oil mark position should be in the "HOT" interval (usually marked with MIN/MAX)
| Oil level status | Handling suggestions | 
|---|---|
| Below the MIN line | Replenish the same type of oil immediately | 
| Over the MAX line | Professional oil extraction required | 
| Oil is turbid | Consider replacing immediately | 
6.Oil quality judgment: High-quality oil should be transparent red. If it is dark brown or has a burnt smell, it needs to be replaced in time.
3. Common misunderstandings in gearbox oil inspection
•Cold car inspection: Most models require measurement when the oil temperature is 70-80°C, and the reading will be inaccurate when the car is cold.
•Ignore color changes: New oil is generally bright red, and it is normal for it to gradually turn darker after use.
•Mixed oils: Different types of transmission oils cannot be mixed, as this may cause chemical reactions.
4. Professional advice
According to recent data on the popularity of car maintenance topics, it is recommended to check the transmission oil every 20,000 kilometers or one year. For vehicles equipped with CVT transmissions, the inspection frequency should be increased to every 10,000 kilometers. If metal debris is found in the oil, it may indicate an internal mechanical failure and requires immediate repair.
Proper use of the transmission dipstick can not only prevent major failures but also save repair costs. Mastering this basic skill, combined with regular professional maintenance, can keep your car in top condition.
              check the details
              check the details