How to check transmission fluid on a 2003 Blazer - problem??

Question

I just had 1200$ of work done on my vehicle, including a tuneup. Now it is hesitating when accelerating, and slowing down. Otherwise its running beautifully now! Doesn't a tuneup include changing transmission fluid, and how do I check it myself? [car running or off, cold or warm, etc]. The weather has turned very cold, and the Blazer seemed ok on the highway - possibly just cold, and is there transmission antifreeze I could add in to help?

Thanks for the tips and suggestions

The work done was a tuneup, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel regulator, oil change, etc.

Checked the fluid at lunch and it is pink and full! Thanks - so if not the fluid what else could be causing my "transmission" problem? :P

Answer 1

There is no "transmission antifreeze", and you should only add the manufacturer's specified transmission fluid in my opinion (if needed). To check the level on a vehicle that has a transmission dipstick (dipstick handle usually red in color, which is the color of the transmission fluid itself when new), after a long drive with the engine and transmission good and hot, park the vehicle while idling the engine. Apply the parking brake and pull the dipstick out. Dry all oil from the dipstick with a paper towel and reinsert the dipstick. Remove the dipstick once again to verify that the fluid level is between the "fill" and "full" marks. Any where between fill and full is ok and it's very easy to overfill an automatic transmission because the level may appear to be low when it really isn't. So take several measurements to make sure it needs fluid if it reads low. You'll need a special transmission filler funnel from the auto store which has a very narrow fill neck. Finally, transmission service is scheduled typically every 30,000 miles by your manufacturer and you should definitely have it done to protect your power train warranty and the service life of your transmission (cost: $150 for a full flush)

Answer 2

A tuneup does NOT include changing transmission fluid. Most manufacturers recommend that be done on a mileage basis and the mileage varies with the company. Most generally they say 25,000 to 50,000 miles. To check the fluid on an automatic transmission the engine should be at operating temperature, at idle with the transmission selector in park. Pull out the transmission dipstick, wipe it clean and reinsert it fully. Pull the dipstick out again and look at the markings to see if the fluid is within the operating range. Good fluid should be a light reddish color. If it is dark or brownish it is either very, very old or has been burned. Never put anything but the type of transmission fluid recommended for your car in the transmission. Antifreeze is not needed and is a big no-no as it will lead to the destruction of your transmission.

Answer 3

Changing the trans fluid is another item all in itself.
With the car running in PARK on a level surface pull the trans dipstick, wipe it off and reinsert it.
Pull a second time and read the level.
A brownish color is OK but smell the fluid a burning smell says it is time for a fluid/filter change. trust me the transmission gets around 260 degrees when running and the fluid is a petroleum product it won't freeze.
I would think 1200 bucks is a lot of work but that doesn't necessarily include tranny service.