auto transmission fluid check

[GoLowDrew]

The owner's manual said that I don't need to check the trans fluid level, unless something is wrong. As I get to know my Cobalt, pop the hood, I don't see where the trans dip stick is. Is it under the massive plastic covers?

Going back to that logic, if I don't check it, how would I know there is a problem, where I do need to check it.

What do you say? Do you check your auto trans fluid?

[dduffy2005]

There is no trans fluid dipstick.

what kind of driving do you do? that'll tell you when to change it.

I myself won't be changing mine until about 50,000 miles just because I want to be safe and it's not that expensive. The owners manual and the dealership both say not to change an 06' 2.2l until 100,00 miles.

[GoLowDrew]

I do day-to-day granny style of driving for max MPG in the city.

I agree with GM's reasoning. In 25 years of owning cars, I don't think I ever had to add any trans fluid in many brands of cars I've owned. Maybe I've just been lucky.

Now if that's the case, why do auto makers even make a fluid dipstick for the auto trans for the past 60+ years? They might as well make it sealed so there is no chance from owners getting dirt or oil in it.