Dumb question - transmission fluid level

BrianV70 · Post by **BrianV70** » 01 Apr 2018, 15:17

I am having a hard time getting a clean reading on the dipstick in my '00 V70 XC, 125,000 miles. I have followed Robert DIYs instructions too.

Engine is warm (3 o'clock on the gauge), transmission is warm. I remove and wipe the dipstick, reinsert all the way (with the click). Pull it out, and there is fluid splashed all over the dipstick. Can't tell if its in the correct range on the hot side or cold side.

Car runs and shifts fine. I do have some fluid leaks - possibly transmission and/or power steering, and minor oil seepage or consumption.

Could the transmission have been overfilled?

I do have a hard time finding a good level surface (wife gets the garage spot), but get the same result when on a level surface.

Post by **FlyingVolvo** » 01 Apr 2018, 15:43

Yeah, the trans dipstick reading can be a pain. Definitely try and get a flat surface, warm car, and cycle through the gears a bit. I clean off the dipstick as best as I can, put it back in fully seated and pull it back out immediately. Checking only the "hot" side, there may be some splash, but you should be able to tell where the solid fluid turns to more splattered... that's where I consider the level to be.

If truly in doubt, or you think it is overfilled... drain out the fluid and refill with 3.5 quarts (I personally recommend Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF). The drain & fill method drops out ~3.5 quarts (or more if overfilled) out of the ~8 quarts in the system.

BrianV70 · Post by **BrianV70** » 01 Apr 2018, 19:07

All good - I am right between the lines on the hot side, and the car probably wasn't completely warm when I just check it now.

Thanks!