What Color is Transmission Fluid?

A red fluid leaking from your car may be transmission fluid, but transmission fluid colors can vary with age and use. So, what color should transmission fluid be? New transmission fluid is usually dark red, and it tends to darken as you drive through Beachwood and Mayfield.

Transmission Fluid Color Guide

You can easily check the transmission fluid in your Mercedes-Benz using one of the dipsticks in your vehicle, and you can make an assessment of its condition using the transmission fluid color guide provided here: 

• Brand-new fluid: Red to dark red, semi-transparent
• Normal: Darker brick red with less transparency
• Old and Dirty: Deep blood red or rust red, opaque
• Very Old: Burnt/almost black, completely opaque
• Contamination: Pink or clear, transparent

If you’ve noticed one of the bad transmission fluid colors, schedule a fluid flush and replacement with our service team in Bedford. If your transmission fluid has been contaminated by water or coolant, a full rebuild or replacement may be warranted.

Red Fluid Leaking from Car: What Does it Mean? 

If there’s a red fluid leaking from your car, there’s a very good chance that it’s either transmission fluid or power steering fluid. Here’s how to tell them apart:

• Odor: Transmission fluid smells a lot like motor oil. Power steering fluid is more likely to smell like burnt marshmallows.
• Consistency: Transmission fluid feels a lot like motor oil, too. Power steering fluid is noticeably less thick than transmission fluid, so keep this in mind when you’re assessing the damage.
• Location: Transmission fluid leaks and power steering fluid leaks may be difficult to distinguish based on location. Both tend to appear toward the middle of the car, on the front end.

If you’ve noticed red fluid leaking from your car, you should schedule a visit with our team and let us take a look! Misdiagnosing a fluid leak will only add to your problems, but you can count on us to get you back on the roads of Bedford and Cleveland in no time.

Rely on Mercedes-Benz of Bedford for Your Service Needs

Scheduling regular service with Mercedes-Benz of Bedford can help you protect your transmission and ensure that the quality and quantity of your fluid never fall below acceptable levels. Don’t forget: you should always use the type of transmission fluid that’s recommended for your Mercedes-Benz! Ask an expert at our parts department if you’re not sure of what to use, and make sure to check out our service specials whenever you stop in!