How to check Acura transmission fluid?

Yes — if your Acura has a transmission dipstick, you can check the level at home with the engine warmed up. If your model uses a sealed transmission without a dipstick, a dealer or qualified shop must perform the check or service.

This guide covers how to check transmission fluid on models that provide a dipstick, what to do for sealed units, how to identify the correct ATF type, and practical safety tips to avoid common mistakes.

Does your Acura have a dipstick?

Determining whether your car has a dipstick is the first step. Many older Acuras and certain trims include a dedicated dipstick for the transmission, while newer, sealed transmissions rely on service tools for level checks. If you can't locate a dipstick, consult your owner's manual or a technician about your model-specific procedure.

Dipstick-equipped transmissions: step-by-step

Use this sequence when your vehicle has a transmission dipstick. It guides you through checking the level while the engine and transmission are at proper temperature and ensures you add the correct fluid if needed.

1. Park on level ground and apply the parking brake. With the engine at idle or the specified temperature range, place the transmission in Park (P) and keep the engine running unless the manual says otherwise.


2. Warm up the transmission to normal operating temperature (about 80–90 C / 176–194 F). A short drive around the block or several miles is typical; avoid overheating the engine.


3. Open the hood and locate the ATF dipstick. It is usually labeled and has a colored handle (often red) near the transmission or engine bay. If you have trouble finding it, consult your owner's manual.


4. Pull the dipstick out, wipe it clean with a lint-free rag, reinsert it fully, then pull it again to read the level.


5. Check the fluid level against the marks on the dipstick. For most Honda/Acura transmissions, the level should be between the ADD and FULL marks when the fluid is at operating temperature. Some dipsticks show HOT marks; read those if your car specifies checking while hot.


6. Inspect the fluid color and odor. Fresh ATF is pinkish-red and translucent; dark brown or burnt-smelling fluid indicates replacement or internal issues.


7. If the level is low, add the correct ATF a small amount at a time through the dipstick tube using a funnel, rechecking after a few minutes. Do not overfill.


8. After topping up, recheck by running the car through a few gears (if the manual instructs this) and returning to Park, then recheck the level again to ensure it remains within the specified range.


9. If you notice leaks, slipping, overheating, or rough shifts, stop driving and have the transmission inspected by a qualified technician.

Following these steps will help you determine whether your transmission fluid level is correct and whether topping up is necessary. Regular checks can prevent overheating and costly damage.

Sealed transmissions: what to know

Some Acura models move to sealed transmissions that do not provide a user-accessible dipstick. In these cases, you cannot reliably check the level yourself. Instead, rely on the vehicle’s service indicators or a dealer/tech to measure and adjust the fluid under controlled conditions.

What to do if your Acura has a sealed transmission

Before a service appointment, you can prepare by noting symptoms, including hard shifts, slipping, warning lights, or unusual noises. A technician will typically:

• Use a factory scanner to read transmission fluid temperature and health.


• Connect to the transmission service port and perform a level check according to the model's procedure.


• Drain and refill the transmission with the correct ATF (DW-1 or the specified type) if needed, and test-drive to confirm proper operation.

Because sealed units rely on exact temperature and pressure readings, DIY checks are not advised. Always follow the model's manual and use authorized service centers for fluid changes and level verification.

ATF type and capacity: what to use

Using the correct automatic transmission fluid is essential for performance and longevity. Most Acura models use Honda/Acura ATF DW-1, but some transmissions specify different formulations or require the shop to confirm a temperature-specific grade. Always check your owner's manual or the transmission dipstick label for the exact specification.

• Common specification: ATF DW-1 for most Honda/Acura automatics.


• Alternative specs: Some older or specialty transmissions may require Dexron VI or other fluids; do not substitute without manual confirmation.


• Capacity: Fluid capacity varies by model and transmission; a refill amount is typically a few quarts, but you should add only as needed after reading the dipstick or following the service procedure.

Using the correct fluid prevents slip, shudder, and long-term damage and ensures smooth operation of the transmission.

Signs of transmission fluid issues

Be alert to symptoms that indicate fluid may be low, degraded, or leaking. Common signs include:

• Hard or delayed shifts


• Sudden slipping or loss of torque


• Low fluid level warning or temperature warning on the dashboard


• Unusual smell or dark discoloration


• Visible leaks under the vehicle

If you notice any of these, check the level if possible and consult a technician promptly to avoid further damage.

Summary

Regularly check your Acura’s transmission fluid according to whether your model has a dipstick or a sealed system. Use the correct ATF type specified by your manual, check the level with the engine warm, avoid overfilling, and watch for signs of problems. When in doubt, especially with sealed transmissions, rely on a trained technician for accurate assessment and service. Proper maintenance helps protect your transmission and keeps your Acura running smoothly for years to come.

How to check transmission fluid on an Acura?

How to Check Your Transmission Fluid

1. Let your engine run for 10 minutes before proceeding, the engine must be warm to get an accurate reading.
2. Find the transmission fluid dipstick.
3. Remove the dipstick and touch the fluid.
4. Use a rag to wipe off the dipstick.
5. Use a funnel to bring the fluid level up to the proper level.

How do you check the transmission fluid on a 2016 Acura MDX?

Typically, it's located to the right of the oil dipstick on front-wheel-drive cars. Remove the dipstick and assess the fluid's condition by rubbing the fluid around between your thumb and forefinger. Transmission fluid should be nearly clear with a pink hue.

Why is there no transmission dipstick?

There is no transmission dipstick in many modern vehicles because transmissions are now "sealed," which prevents contamination and is designed to last for the life of the vehicle. This is also due to advances in technology, which use electronic sensors for more accurate monitoring and require specific procedures for checking the fluid that a simple dipstick cannot handle. Additionally, some sealed transmissions require specialized tools and knowledge to check, which discourages owners from doing it themselves and may lead to more frequent shop visits. 
This video explains why manufacturers are eliminating transmission dipsticks: 58sJust Call Me EddieYouTube · Feb 12, 2025
Reasons for the absence of a transmission dipstick 

• Sealed transmissions: Many modern transmissions are sealed, meaning they do not lose fluid and therefore do not require regular checking by the owner. They are designed with a much higher level of efficiency and better tolerances than older models. 
• Prevention of contamination and misuse: Sealed transmissions prevent dirt, water, and other contaminants from entering the system, which can cause damage. Removing the dipstick also prevents owners from accidentally using the wrong type of transmission fluid, which could be catastrophic, especially for complex CVTs or dual-clutch systems. 
• Advanced fluid monitoring: Some modern vehicles use electronic sensors to monitor fluid levels and quality, sending this information directly to the car's dashboard. These systems are more accurate than a traditional dipstick and reduce the risk of human error. 
• Complex checking procedure: Checking the fluid in a sealed transmission often requires specific temperature conditions and a special process involving a mechanic lifting the vehicle and removing an inspection plug. A traditional dipstick is not designed to be used with this type of system. 

What to do if you don't have a dipstick

• Consult your owner's manual to determine if your vehicle has a sealed transmission and what the recommended service interval is. 
• If you suspect a leak or need to check your transmission fluid, refer to your vehicle's manual for the correct procedure or consult a dealership or qualified mechanic. 

Do I check my transmission fluid while the engine is running?

Yes, for automatic transmissions, you should check the transmission fluid with the car running. It's crucial to let the engine warm up first, then shift through all the gears while keeping the brake pressed, and finally check the fluid level while the engine is in park or neutral. Checking while the engine is on ensures the fluid is circulating properly and the torque converter is full, giving a more accurate reading. 
This video demonstrates the importance of checking transmission fluid while the engine is running: 59sOBD InsightsYouTube · Sep 3, 2024
Why check with the engine running

• Accurate reading: The fluid circulates through the transmission, including the torque converter, while the engine is running. This prevents a false high reading that can occur if the fluid has drained back into the pan when the engine is off. 
• Hot fluid: Checking the fluid when the engine is warm gives the most accurate reading because transmission fluid expands as it heats up. Your dipstick often has separate "hot" and "cold" markings. 
• Functionality: The engine needs to be running to activate the transmission and its internal parts, which is necessary for a proper check. 

How to check automatic transmission fluid

1. Make sure the car is on a level surface and set the parking brake. 
2. Start the engine and let it run until it reaches normal operating temperature. 
3. Press the brake pedal and slowly shift the gear selector through all the gears (P, R, N, D, etc.), pausing for a few seconds in each. 
4. Return the gear selector to the park (P) position. 
5. Locate the transmission fluid dipstick, pull it out, and wipe it clean with a rag. 
6. Re-insert the dipstick completely, then pull it out again to check the fluid level against the "hot" marks. 

You can watch this video for a step-by-step guide on checking transmission fluid: 52sJiffy LubeYouTube · Jun 29, 2015
Important considerations

• Consult your owner's manual: The specific procedure can vary between vehicles. Some modern vehicles may not have a dipstick, or some may have different checking procedures. 
• Manual transmissions: The procedure for checking manual transmission fluid is different and typically requires the engine to be off and the vehicle to be on a lift. 
• Safety: Be careful when working around a running engine. Some sources recommend using wheel chocks for added safety.