Dip-sticking, maybe?

When checking the trans fluid in my 2005, I have a hard time getting the dipstick all the way back down. It starts to bind about halfway down and the last few inches require me to force-feed it slowly, or else it bends. I've checked it for damage, but there are no nicks or bends visible. There is a slight twist about 4" from the bottom, but I think this is by design? Under the car, I see the dipstick tube takes a 90 deg bend into the pan, so I assume this is where it's getting stuck.

Does anyone else have this issue, and what's the solution?

 

Did you try putting it in with the other side up?

I think there is a slight bend in the dipstick that helps it go down without binding

 

Yep, I've tried every orientation

 

That's really strange. I wish I could be more helpful

I guess you could purchase a replacement
https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw...852.m570.l1313

 

When I had my 2002 LS430 the transmission dipstick stuck like you describe. Its normal, you just have to push and twist. It's kinda hard not to burn yourself when the engine is up to temp tho. Be careful!

 

Maybe if I lubricated it with some oil ... oh, wait.