How Often You Need to Change Your Transmission Fluid?

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Many types of fluid run throughout your vehicle but it is very vital to keep track of your transmission fluid because of the smoothness of your drive, the durability of your car, and the fuel efficiency, all these depend on the Transmission Fluid. Changing your transmission fluid is a vital part of car maintenance, but it’s not always a job that the average person feels comfortable doing. For those who are unsure of how to go about changing their transmission fluid, or for those who would just prefer to leave the job to the experts, popular mechanics can be a great resource. By taking your car to a reputable mechanic, you can rest assured knowing that the job will be done right – and that you won’t have to worry about any expensive repairs down the road.

Still, wondering when to change your Transmission Fluid? Well, the answer to that is pretty basic and can be proven car-saving if followed carefully. Manual Transmission, on the other hand, require more conventional gear oil than automatic transmission fluid and function in a far different manner as compared to an automatic transmission, therefore, it is best to consult the service intervals mentioned on the owner’s manual for detailed information on what type of oil should be used.

But the question that might pop in mind after carefully reading is,

why is it important to change the transmission Fluid or Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)?

One of the most evident reasons for keeping the ATF in check is because in a car, not only tires are the moving parts, rather car’s engine is composed of many moving parts which need lubrication to move smoothly and efficiently, therefore for the durability for such parts, they are bathed in ATF. Not only for lubrication purposes but ATF has other functions as well, like the chemicals ATF is composed of prevents corrosion and wear, keep the engine flowing in the cold, keep the transmissions clean, etc.

When a car is driven 30 days a month, the engine keeps catching the heat, and just like all the auto fluid, ATF breaks down over time. It can leave varnish and deposits on the parts and as a result, it gets thick and sticky. As the ATF loses its lubrication, the moving parts start catching rust which makes the transmissions work harder making it more likely to fail.

Like other auto fluid, transmissions fluids depreciates over time. Frequent traveling, hauling Heavy Loads will only worsen the condition of the engine. This kind of worsening raises the transmissions operating temperature, and heat puts more strain on the transmission which can result in damaging the transmission. A malfunctioned Transmissions can cost you a lot, Literally. On the other hand, ATF can barely affect your pocket. Hence, it is worth the investment if your transmission is not working as it should.

How Can You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

Many modern cars don’t have a transmission Fluid Dipstick. Therefore, manufacturers recommend professional service center inspections. The fluid level ids often check from beneath the cars of such cars. But in the following are some of the tips that you can keep in mind while checking the fluid:

  • Use your owner’s manual to look at the recommended procedure for checking your transmission fluid.
  • Park the vehicle on a level surface to get the most accurate reading for checking the fluid level.
  • Be cautious of engine cooling fans as they may continue to run even after the engine is off. Many car manufacturers recommend that the engine and transmission temperature should be normal while checking the transmission fluid.
  • Determine if the fluid is checked with the engine running or off.
  • Some cars creators recommend moving the gear selector into each gear for a few seconds before checking the fluid; always select park or neutral.
  • Identify the transmission dipstick handle, by carefully reading the owner’s manual.
  • Remove the dipstick handle slowly, be cautious not to spill any fluid on the hot engine or exhausted parts.
  • Reinsert the dipstick, then remove the dipstick to check the fluid level by seeing if the fluid level is between high and low marks, marked on the dipstick handle.
  • If you have a leak and need to refill, make sure to use the recommended Auto Transmission Fluid (ATF). Fill the ATF to an Appropriate level and get the leak fixed as soon as possible.
  • Place the dipstick into the dipstick valve when done.

Transmission fluid often is red but it comes in other colors as well. As it deteriorates, it tends to turn in a darker shade. As it turns darker, it may also acquire a burned odor that could indicate that the ATF needs to be changed or that the transmission is developing mechanical problems.

What is a Flush System?

Many workshop owners use the flush system to take the oil out present in the engine to refill it. With the new transmissions fluid. The draining of oil although sounds good, but some manufacturers don’t recommend the flush system. So, it is advised to either consult with an expert before oil changing. Or simply just look up to your owner’s manual. Always make sure to use the recommended Transmissions oil. And not just change a new transmission oil as it can cause damages to the transmissions of the car.

Transmission Oil over Engine Oil?

Engine Oil is primarily a lubricant. While on the contrary to it Transmission Oil serves as both, lubricative oil. And a Hydraulic Fluid as well that helps facilitate smooth gear shifting, cooling the transmission. And keep lubricating the moving parts along with it.