How do you check the transmission fluid level on the 2004 Alere?

Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is an important component for the proper function of your 2004 VW Beetle Convertible Turbo's transmission. Here are the steps to check and add ATF fluid:

1. Locate the transmission dipstick. It is typically located near the back of the engine on the driver's side.
2. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag.
3. Re-insert the dipstick fully and remove it again to check the fluid level. The fluid should be between the "MIN" and "MAX" marks on the dipstick.
4. If the fluid level is low, add fluid through the dipstick tube. It is recommended to use the same type of fluid specified by the manufacturer, Volkswagen G 052 162 A2 or Volkswagen G 052 990 A2.
5. Repeat the process of checking and adding fluid until the fluid level is between the "MIN" and "MAX" marks on the dipstick.
6. Run the engine for a few minutes and recheck the fluid level to make sure that it is correct.

This is a great question because each vehicle manufacturer has a slightly different checking process and if the wrong process is used, the reading will not be accurate. For a 2004 Honda CRV equipped with an automatic transmission, the transmission fluid level should be checked at normal operating temperature (vehicle all the way warmed-up). Start by parking the vehicle on level ground and turn off the engine. Next, remove the dipstick (yellow loop) from the transmission and wipe it off. Then, insert the dipstick back into the transmission fully. Lastly, remove the dipstick once more and read the level; it should be between the upper and lower marks. If the level is below the lower mark, add fluid into the filler hole to bring it to the upper mark. This should be done using Honda ATF-Z1 or equivalent although DEXRON III can be used in an emergency situation (but may affect shift quality). You can read more about checking transmission fluid levels here: https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-check-and-add-fluid-to-an-automatic-transmission

Add transmission fluid to the same tube you check the transmission fluid level. It will resemble the oil dipstick tube, only it's a larger tube that will accommodate a funnel to add additional fluid. It's important not to overfill the recommended level so try adding 1/2 quart at a time until the level is withing the markings on the transmission fluid dipstick.

Hello Lillian.
Your CTS does not have a dipstick to check the level.
There is a procedure for checking it but it needs to be done by lifting the car high and level to access a plug on the side of the transmission.
Here is the procedure.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID LEVEL CHECKING PROCEDURE

1. Start the engine and allow the engine to idle until the transmission fluid normal operating temperature has been reached.
2. Depress the brake pedal and move the shift lever through the gear ranges, pausing a few seconds in each range. Return the shift lever to the PARK range.
3. Raise the vehicle on a hoist. The vehicle must be level, with the engine running and the shift lever in the PARK range. CAUTION: The engine must be running when the transmission fluid fill plug is removed, or excessive fluid loss will occur. Transmission fluid may be hot. Since the actual fluid level is unknown, stand clear when removing the fill plug. Have a container ready to capture any lost fluid. Do not turn the engine off with the fill plug removed, as you can be injured by hot transmission fluid being expelled out of the oil fill opening.

If you would like further advise on this matter, please ask me here in a comment.
Thank you for using FixYa.

KL

There is no dipstick to check the automatic transmission fluid in the 2004 Suzuki Forenza. It is checked like a manual transmission. You will have to remove the fill plug underneath the car and then add some new transmission fluid until it drizzels out of the hole.

Underhood Check

Engine oil--Check the engine oil level.

Coolant--Check the radiator coolant level in the reservoir.

Battery-- Visually check battery cables and connections.

Automatic transmission--Check the fluid level.

Master cylinder--Check the fluid level.

Power Steering--Check the fluid level.

Windshield washer--Check the fluid level.

Belts & hoses--Visually check all belts and hoses for wear. NOTE: In addition to the items listed above there are cases with some manufacturer's where odd components such as manual transmission/transaxles and front differentials many be equipped with a dipstick found underhood for fluid level check. If you are unsure of a dipstick on your vehicle, check with the owners manual.

In an automatic transmission, the dipstick should be located around back of the engine. You let the engine run to normal operating temp. and you check the fluid level, add as needed. You add through the dipstick tube with a funnel. Hope this helps.

Levels:
Transmission fluid level:
The transmission dipstick tube looks like a slightly large oil dispstick tube. It is located near the firewall on the drivers side.
Set parking /emergency brake.
With engine warm and running, pull dipstick and clean off with rag. Insert disptick and pull out. Check fluid level.
To add transmission fluid, use the same dipstick tube and a kitchen funnel (good time to purchase a new funnel for the kitchen). Auto stores also sell "special" funnels with a short rubber hose attached to the end.
Not all transmission fluid is the same. Purchase only the one made for your vehicle (Volvo?)
I hope it was the transmission fluid level that you needed.

the dipstick is usually right new to the oil dipstick.. right abovr it..

If it's red, it's transmission fluid. Coolant would be green. Check the fluid level, don't let it get low, Chrysler minivans are prone to transmission troubles, and low fluid levels over time will ruin a a transmission. And be sure not to overfill, it's just as bad for the trans. Have the leak checked out and repaired, good luck