Black residue on ATF dipstic

[friendly_jacek]

When I check ATF level in my 03 Corolla transmission (I do it 1-2 times a year when I remember) and wipe the dipstick for the first time, there is black residue/smear on paper towel in addition to the pink ATF. It was always like that as far as I remember.

ATF (T-IV) is changed (drain and refill) every 30,000 miles. Last time I did Mobil 1 ATF (compatible with T-IV according to the bottle info) and dropped the pan to clean filter/magnets). Average amounts of debris. That was 13,000 miles ago. Fluid is still nicely pink.

While I always considered that normal (magnetized dipstick?) and saw it also in Subaru transfer case dipstick, I decided to ask the experts here.

Thanks!

 

[The_Jeff]

normal.

 

[LargeCarManX2]

Friction material. Normal when using a white towel or papertowel.

 

[crinkles]

I see that too. I must say, it has virtually disappeared after installing my magnefine filter last week, to a barely visible smidgen only. Made a difference after as little as 5 miles driving and fluid circulation.

 

[unDummy]

It means that you're not using the dipstick frequently enough.

Filter is an easy way to continue with the dipstick negligence.

 

[crinkles]

huh?