Rebuilt transmission, the transmission fluid level low at hot

Tiny
OLDGMLOVER
  • MEMBER
  • 1989 BUICK REGAL
  • 2.8L
  • V6
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 59,300 MILES
I had my car's THM440-T4 transmission rebuilt last year I would say 6 months ago. It has 800 miles put on it. I went today to check all my fluid levels and noticed at engine temperature the transmission level is low. It’s not lining with all the dots on the dipstick like the manufacturer says. The ground is bone dry with no leaks. At acceleration I notice a slight slip like as soon as you push down on the gas to accelerate at a green light. It’s not completely rough. Just a slight hesitate.

Would it be okay if I top it off when hot? I was going to fill about a half a quart. I don’t want to risk driving it for a long time without the proper fill level. I do know transmissions in general do get low from condensation and have to be topped off once in a while. So that’s why I am asking what to do.
Monday, April 11th, 2022 AT 7:59 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
SQM
  • MECHANIC
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

Yes, the first step would be to top off the transmission fluid to the correct level. And yes, you can add fluid when it is hot. The transmission fluid should be checked at operating temperature to show the correct level.

Here is a helpful guide to best practices:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-and-add-transmission-fluid

Let me know of any questions.
Thank you.
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Tuesday, April 12th, 2022 AT 11:52 AM
Tiny
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That’s interesting on modern cars I didn’t think there was a dipstick, and it could be check. Thanks for the info on that also.
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Tuesday, April 12th, 2022 AT 12:10 PM
Tiny
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You are welcome. Let me know how it turns out.
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Tuesday, April 12th, 2022 AT 8:07 PM
Tiny
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Everything was good. I let it get to engine temperature and checked it. I just added a slight bit and it was smooth.
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Wednesday, April 20th, 2022 AT 10:45 PM
Tiny
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That is good news. Thank you for updating.
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Thursday, April 21st, 2022 AT 7:33 AM

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