How to check auto transmission fluid

[Adam Helberg]

I'm still having problems checking the auto transmission fluid in my 2002 2.5L Outback.
According the owner's manual it should be checked warm with the engine idling. But if I check
the dipstick with the engine idling I don't get a level--there is a thin line of fluid along
one side of the dipstick. If I turn the engine off I do get a level. Any explanation for this?
The mechanic at the dealer says he checks the fluid with the engine turned off.

Adam

 

[Edward Hayes]

AT oil level checks require a simple technique. Drive the car till warm and
park the car on a level area. Shift the shift lever into all positions and
put in park, leaving the engine running. Raise the hood and wait several
minutes while the engine is idling. SLOWLY remove ands wipe the dipstick.
Wait a minute or two to let all oil run out of the dipstick tube. SLOWLY
insert the dipstick all the way. Remove slowly and check level. I do this
several times to insure a constant reading and the key word is SLOWLY. Eddie

 

[JustDoIt]

Good engineering work? Wadya think? Beleivers!

AT oil level checks require a simple technique. Drive the car till warm and
park the car on a level area. Shift the shift lever into all positions and
put in park, leaving the engine running. Raise the hood and wait several
minutes while the engine is idling. SLOWLY remove ands wipe the dipstick.
Wait a minute or two to let all oil run out of the dipstick tube. SLOWLY
insert the dipstick all the way. Remove slowly and check level. I do this
several times to insure a constant reading and the key word is SLOWLY. Eddie

 

[Adam Helberg]

AT oil level checks require a simple technique. Drive the car till warm and
park the car on a level area. Shift the shift lever into all positions and
put in park, leaving the engine running. Raise the hood and wait several
minutes while the engine is idling. SLOWLY remove ands wipe the dipstick.
Wait a minute or two to let all oil run out of the dipstick tube. SLOWLY
insert the dipstick all the way. Remove slowly and check level. I do this
several times to insure a constant reading and the key word is SLOWLY. Eddie

OK I'll try your method, although I don't think I have the patience to wait "several minutes"
with the engine idling. Can I ask you why the engine should be idling? What does that have to
do with the transmission?

Adam

 

[Edward Hayes]

Engine idling assures that all chambers in the control valve body are full
as the minute you turn off the engine some fluid will leak down. Eddie