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Porsche 993: How to Check Transmission Fluid

If you feel any difference in your Porsche 993's shifting, be sure to check the transmission fluid now and avoid any costly repairs later.

By Bill Lindsey - June 10, 2015

This article applies to the Porsche 993 (1993-1998).

Maintaining the proper amount of fluid in your car's gearbox is the best way to ensure smooth function and maximum performance. If your car is not shifting as smoothly as you'd like, the problem could be as simple as a transmission fluid top off. Because this task requires a moderate amount of effort, it is easy to put off, but doing so could cost you big bucks down the road. If you're in doubt of when you should replace the transmission fluid on your Porsche 993, the best thing to do is to replace it now.

Materials Needed

  • Screwdriver to remove undertray
  • 10 mm hex socket
  • Ratchet
  • Breaker bar
  • Creeper
  • Jack stands
  • Gloves
  • Protective eyewear
  • Shop rags

Step 1 – Raise the car on jack stands

On a ground level, raise the car and secure it on jack stands.

Figure 1. Secure the car on jack stands.

(Related Article: How to Jack Up Your Porsche - Rennlist.com).

Step 2 – Slide under the car

Use the flat head screwdriver to remove the protective engine and transmission undertray to access the transmission fluid fill plug. Grab the 10mm hex socket and your ratchet and using the time-honored "lefty loosey, righty-tighty" method, remove the fill plug slowly. Some 993s will have a crush washer on the fill plug, which will require more effort to remove. You may need the breaker bar at this point. It's not unusual for fluid to spill out of the fill plug, so open it with caution.

Figure 2. Only remove the fill plug. Don't remove the drain plug.

Step 3 – Check fluid level

With the fill plug removed and set aside, dip your finger into the opening. Alternatively, if you can find a white pipe cleaner, you can bend it to the proper angle to be inserted. If you feel or see fluid right away, you are probably ok. If you need to go further in there to reach fluid, you will need to add more fluid in there.

Step 4 - Check color of fluid

If the fluid level seems topped-off, use this opportunity to look at the color of the fluid as you wipe your finger on a paper towel. If the color of the fluid is brown, you are due for a transmission fluid change. You want the fluid color to look pink to red.

Figure 3. Left is good. Right is bad.

Step 5 – Replace fill cap

If the fluid level and quality is acceptable, replace the fill plug and protective undertray. Lower the car and test drive it, then inspect for leaks.

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