I check my Volvo 240 when it is not running and the ATF is very high, but then when it is running it is low. I also have had some problems with the transmission leaking. Is it normal for transmission fluid to be high when the car isn't running?
where does the transmission leak from?
I'm not really sure. It wasn't leaking until I added some ATF to bring it up to the correct level. It seems to leak when not running. That is also when the level is higher. I'm going to have to take a closer look.
Yes, that is perfectly normal. When the engine is running, the fluid starts flowing throughout the entire transmission, so the fluid level drops. When the engine turns off, the fluid stops flowing and most of it returns to the fluid pan, so the fluid level will increase. Your ATF dipstick should have a HOT (trans at operating temp) fluid level area on one side of the dipstick and a COLD (blank side) fluid level area on the other (cold trans).
Same idea with checking the engine oil...
You should read the manual about the correct procedure for checking and topping up fluid.
If you put too much it will leak out.
Read the manual. This is a check while warm and running car. I'm going to have to look closer and get under the car and see exactly where it is leaking. I am thinking that it might actually be leaking when not running because it reaches a high level and leaks out of the top of the transmission and may be leaking from where the dipstick enters the transmission.