Why is the ATF in my 99 4EAT clear when the ATF in my wife's 96 4EAT is red? Be assured I'm using the proper ATF dipstick when checking the transmission fluid. (Not the short 90 weight stick).

Blot a little of each onto a piece of white paper.

 

On the stick if it's red it might actually be a little dark.

The red coloring is only a dye the help identify the fluid to quickly differentiate between ATF, engine oil, or coolant. The color has no effect on the lubricative qualities.

 

The 96 could have started life with clear fluid but was refilled with red fluid at one of the regular service changes. Or the 99 maybe started with red fluid and has been changed to clear.

as long as the fluid isn't black and smells burnt your good.

I've never seen atf with no dye, though. Maybe someone had a drum of industrial hydraulic fluid that met spec.

 

There are fluids out there that can be used as motor oil, atf, hydraulic fluid, and a dessert topping!

ughh....?   I do enjoy hot apple pie with ice cream though. Thanks for the info ya'all. Quack-Quack.

The red coloring is only a dye the help identify the fluid to quickly differentiate between ATF, engine oil, or coolant. The color has no effect on the lubricative qualities.

 

The 96 could have started life with clear fluid but was refilled with red fluid at one of the regular service changes. Or the 99 maybe started with red fluid and has been changed to clear.

My 96 started life with red fluid. I know this because I bought mine new.