How to Check the Transmission Fluid in a Pontiac Grand Am
by Johnathan Cronk
Your Pontiac Grand Am's transmission is responsible for automatically changing gears as the vehicle moves. In order to preserve your transmission and keep it running smoothly, you must have ample transmission fluid. The transmission fluid is specialized oil that lubricates the gears and valve operation. You can easily check your ATF level in your Grand AM yourself as the dipstick is labeled and the fluid is colored green or red to make it easily noticeable versus motor oil. Keeping the transmission fluid adequate is important to the life of your Grand Am.
Step 1
Place the Grand Am in park and turn the ignition key to begin the engine. Allow the vehicle to warm up for ten minutes. It's best to have your vehicle running and warmed up to get the most accurate reading on your fluid levels.
Step 2
Open the hood of the Grand Am. Locate the automatic transmission fluid container on the driver side of the engine. The container has a red cap, which is the dipstick, and is labeled "ATF."
Step 3
Remove the ATF dipstick by pulling it out of the container. Clean the dipstick with a rag and replace into the container.
Step 4
Remove the dipstick once again and read the measurement. The dipstick is labeled "full" and "add." When the fluid hits below the "add" line, transmission fluid is needed.
References
Things You'll Need
- Rag
Writer Bio
Johnathan Cronk is a freelance writer and began writing at the age of 18. Throughout his career he has specialized in sports, how-to and advice articles. He has also written sales pitches in the corporate setting since 2001. He studied business at Hudson Valley Community College before transferring to the State University of New York, Albany.
