What Color Should Transmission Fluid Be?

When you purchase a new or pre-owned vehicle from our team, you can expect to enjoy exceptional performance on the Mclean roads. One of the main components of your vehicle that allows it to perform is its transmission. Your transmission is responsible for handling and directing the power from your engine to its drivetrain. That’s why it’s important to regularly schedule service to maintain your transmission.

One of the ways you can do that is by keeping track of your transmission fluid color. But, what color should transmission fluid be? This can vary, but in most cases, your transmission fluid color should be red. That means if you notice red fluid leaking from your car, it may be a sign of your transmission needing service. Today, Mercedes-Benz of Tysons Corner will help provide you with an in-depth answer to, “What color should transmission fluid be?” and touch on the following aspects regarding your transmission fluid:

• What are bad transmission fluid colors?
• How do you know you need to replace your transmission fluid?
• What does it mean if red fluid is leaking from your car?
• Additional transmission fluid color & maintenance advice

What Are Bad Transmission Fluid Colors?

In many cases, your transmission fluid color should be a red or dark red color depending on your specific vehicle. Many new Mercedes-Benz vehicles may have an enclosed transmission, so you might not be able to check it on your own. However, you can always bring it to our service center and have one of our technicians take a look.

On the other hand, if you drive an older Mercedes-Benz model or a different make from our pre-owned selection, you can likely check your transmission fluid in your own Great Falls driveway. Additionally, if you notice red fluid leaking from your car, here’s what the color of your transmission fluid means:

• New: Red or dark red
• Normal: Dark brick red
• Service transmission soon: Dark blood red or rust red
• Service transmission as soon as possible: Burnt red or almost black

Signs Your Transmission Fluid Needs to be Replaced

If you notice a bad transmission fluid color in your vehicle, it may be time to have your transmission serviced. For specifics on transmission service intervals, transmission fluid type, and more, we suggest you reference your owner’s manual or give our team a visit.

Remember that it’s best to opt for genuine OEM parts, filters, and fluids when it comes time to service your transmission. With that being said, here are some signs that you may need a transmission service:

• Burnt smelling fluid
• Oily transmission fluid
• Transmission fluid leaking
• Hesitation to shift gears

High-Quality Service Available Today at Mercedes-Benz of Tysons Corner!

From servicing your transmission to other car maintenance, the experts at our Vienna service center are here to help. We’ll provide you with high-quality service to help you keep your vehicle on the road for many years to come at Mercedes-Benz of Tysons Corner. As always, please let us know if you have any questions or concerns!