How to Check the Transmission Fluid in a Jeep Liberty
by Christian Killian
Regular maintenance of your automatic-transmission Jeep Liberty is important. And checking the transmission fluid is part of that maintenance. If the fluid is running low, the transmission will function erratically and there could be permanent damage done to the vehicle. Checking the transmission fluid is simple and can be done when you add fuel or when you have five extra minutes in your day.
Step 1
Park your Liberty on flat ground. You must check the transmission fluid when the car is level.
Step 2
Apply the parking brake and start your Jeep. Let it run at an idle for at least 60 seconds before checking the fluid level.
Step 3
Place the transmission shifter into park. The transmission fluid level will not be accurate if the Jeep is in any other gear.
Step 4
Locate the dipstick for the transmission fluid in the engine compartment. It's near the firewall, close to the back of the engine. On most Jeep vehicles, the transmission dipstick is labeled and has a yellow or red "T" handle.
Step 5
Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag or paper towel. The dipstick is very long—it runs all the way down along the engine and into the transmission pan. Insert the dipstick back into the tube until it is fully seated in the tube.
Step 6
Pull out the dipstick again and read the level off the stick. Marks on the dipstick will indicate low, full, and over full. Verify that the level is near the full mark.
References
Tips
- Always use the recommended transmission fluid in your Jeep. The owner's manual will specify which type is right for your vehicle.
Things You'll Need
- Clean rag or paper towel
Warnings
- Always use a clean rag or paper towel when checking the fluid level so you don't place dirt or other contaminants on the dipstick that may end up in the transmission fluid.
Writer Bio
Christian Killian has been a freelance journalist/photojournalist since 2006. After many years of working in auto parts and service positions, Killian decided to move into journalism full-time. He has been published in "1st Responder News" as well as in other trade magazines and newspapers in the last few years.
