how to fully test trans fluid level?

[alex86]

I was just trying to find get a 100% definate fact on how to correctly test the trans fluid level. my dad tells me to leave engine on and test the level because that is the best way to find out. my friend says what for just leave the car off and just test it. anyone know?

[95camguy]

as far as i know its supposed to be done with the car running. thats what the haynes manual says about my 95 v6(gen 3.5). also, it would be better to do this on a flat surface and a warm trans.(drive it few miles then check the level).

[CraigW]

Car running, tranny in neutral, flat surface, engine and tranny at temperature.

But to be honest, mine will also read with the engine off as well.

[csaxon]

Listen to your father. Let it warm up then shift through each gear to fill the transmission channels and leave it in PARK with the engine running. Use the side that says cold or hot. It should be between the 2 hot marks. Don't read the back side of the stick it may be higher, just the side with the words. That's why your stick only goes in one way.

Don't read it after heavy or hard driving. Let it cool down about 10 minutes after that then go through the procedure. If you read it with the engine off the channels drain and give a false reading. You may look okay, but when the engine starts up the channels fill you may actually be low.