Checking trans fluid level
 

When I check the transmission fluid level on my C280, I get various readings. The car is at operating temperature, is idling in park, and is on level ground. However, when I check the level, sometimes it shows at the cold level mark, sometimes a bit higher, sometimes only on one side of the dipstick, sometimes it seems to be spread up the dipstick like it was running down the stick, and sometimes there is a gap between the traces on the stick. This has been very frustrating and I certainly don't want to overfill and create problems. However, I don't want to underfill either. Is there some magic trick to getting this right?

Pull out dipstick and wipe off with a clean finger. Reinsert slowly and pull out again slowly. This should give a accurate reading.:)

The fluid always seems to creap way up one side. I have always figured that one side is flat against the oily lower tube. View the stick on both sides and use the lower one, it will be accurate.

There also will be a significant difference between cold and hot. The testing should be done hot, but once the relationship is learned for your trannie good info can be had cold, running.