What Color is Transmission Fluid?

Changing transmission fluid


One of the most common questions the service team at Sid Dillon Nissan gets is, “What color is transmission fluid?” Transmission fluid is purposely red so it can easily be identified. When it’s fresh, it’s translucent and dark red. Learn more about transmission fluid and its properties from the auto pros at Sid Dillon Nissan near Omaha, and be sure to reach out to our service center with any questions!

Transmission Fluid Color Guide

So, now you know that if you have a red fluid leaking, it’s transmission fluid. But, can it be any other colors? Yes, your car’s transmission fluid will darken from age and use. It may also change color because contaminants get past the transmission filter. Below is a basic transmission fluid color guide. Use it to determine whether you need service and if so, schedule a service appointment with Sid Dillon Nissan. 

  • Brand-new fluid: Dark red
  • Normal: Darker brick red
  • You need to take your vehicle in for service soon: Deep blood red/rust red
  • Immediately take your car in for service: Burnt/nearly black 

Red Fluid Leaking from Car: What Does it Mean? 

If red fluid is leaking from your car, it’s probably a transmission fluid leak, but there are other ways to identify a transmission leak, such as:

  • Burnt odor: Transmission fluid should smell like petroleum. If it needs to be replaced, it will smell burnt.
  • Check the consistency: Transmission fluid looks and feels oily and slick, similar to motor oil or brake fluid.
  • Location of the Leak: Transmission fluid leaks are typically located toward the vehicle’s front half. 

Get Ahead of Transmission Issues

Keep the following transmission tips in mind to prevent problems with your car while driving around Beatrice: 

  • Get the Right Fluid: It’s essential to make sure you’re using the right automatic transmission fluid for your transmission, and always stick with genuine OEM parts.
  • Follow Your Owner’s Manual Instructions: Check your owner’s manual for what kind of transmission fluid to use, and follow the recommended maintenance schedule for your new Nissan model. 
  • Keep Up with Transmission Service: Adhering to recommendedscheduled servicecan help catch issues before they become serious problems. The certified Nissan Technicians at Sid Dillon Nissan know how to replace transmission components and perform a transmission flush. 

Rely on Sid Dillon Nissan for All Your Auto Service Needs

Now that you don’t need to ask, “What color is transmission fluid?” if your car has red fluid leaking, call us right away! You can also schedule serviceat Sid Dillon Nissan online. We look forward to getting you back on Kearny roads quickly. Browse our parts and service specials and contact us today!



Nissan Service Coupons

Tire Rotation and Balance*

$39.95

Rotate and balance 4 tires. Check and adjust tire pressure. Complimentary multi-point inspection.

*Certain restrictions apply. See dealer for details. Price and offer availability may vary by model. Taxes and fees additional. No cash value. Must present offer to redeem. May not be combined with other offers. Nissan vehicles only. Void where prohibited.

Expires: 10/28/2026

Nissan Value Advantage® Brake Service* - Express Service

$679.80

Includes installation of Nissan Value Advantage® Brake Pads and Rotors. Complimentary multi-point inspection. No appointment necessary.

*Excludes Brembo® Brakes. Certain restrictions apply. See dealer for details. Price and offer availability may vary by model. Taxes and fees additional. No cash value. Must present offer to redeem. May not be combined with other offers. Nissan vehicles only. Void where prohibited.

Expires: 10/28/2026

Conventional Oil & Filter Change* - Express Service

$5.00 OFF

Includes Genuine Nissan Oil Filter and up to 7 quarts of motor oil (per vehicle specification). Complimentary multi-point inspection. No appointment necessary.

*Excludes diesel models. Using Genuine Nissan Oil Filter and multi-grade oil up to vehicle specification. Certain restrictions apply. See dealer for details. Price and offer availability may vary by model. Taxes and fees additional. No cash value. Must present offer to redeem. May not be combined with other offers. Nissan vehicles only. Void where prohibited.

Expires: 10/28/2026

Buy 3 Eligible Tires, Get the 4th for $1*

Offer valid September 1 – October 31, 2026

*Offer available for a limited time. Eligible on select OEM, OEA, and WIN tires only when purchased from and installed by a participating Nissan dealer. Other restrictions apply. See dealer for details. Price and offer availability may vary by model. Taxes and fees additional. No cash value. May not be combined with any other offers. Void where prohibited. Offer ends October 31, 2026. Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution. Always secure cargo. Heavy loading of the vehicle with cargo, especially on the roof, will affect the handling and stability of the vehicle. ©2026 Nissan North America, Inc.

Expires: 10/28/2026

5 Oil & Filter Changes, Under $55 Each*

Ask your Service Advisor for details.

*Restrictions apply. Oil & Filter Change covers replacement of engine oil and oil filter. Replacement of covered parts/fluids will be made with Genuine Nissan or Nissan-approved replacement parts. Coverage begins on the date of purchase with the mileage on the vehicle's odometer on that date. In all cases, the Prepaid Maintenance Agreement (PMA) expires at the PMA Expiration Mileage or PMA Expiration Date. Administered by Nissan Extended Services North America (NESNA) P.O. Box 685004 Franklin, TN 37068-5004. NESNA reserves the right to reject any Application/Declaration for any reason at its discretion upon return of the full amount paid. READ A SAMPLE SECURITY+PLUS PREPAID MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT AT YOUR DEALER, BECAUSE ITS TERMS, CONDITIONS, EXCLUSIONS, AND LIMITATIONS CONTROL.

Expires: 10/28/2026

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2627 Kendra Ln, Lincoln, NE, 68512
Sid Dillon Nissan 40.7364094, -96.6847531.