Transmission fluid is needed to keep your vehicle running at maximum efficiency. The fluid’s main responsibilities are lubricating, cooling, and maintaining smooth gear shifts. As time goes by, the fluid can get low or dirty, and either of these can impact the vehicle’s efficiency. Use our quick guide below to replace the transmission fluid properly.
Where To Put The Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid is a crucial piece of any vehicle. In order to replace this fluid, you must locate the transmission dipstick first. The dipstick is found near the engine bay the majority of the time. Completely pull out the dipstick to accurately inspect the current fluid level.
If the level looks low, add more fluid at this time. Carefully pour the fluid into the dipstick tube with the help of a funnel, designed to prevent any spills. Make sure the level is correct because overfilling can cause problems within a vehicle. Replace the dipstick and close your hood once the process has been completed.
Why Change Your Transmission Fluid?
All vehicles use fluids to either clean or lubricate vital functions. Over time the fluids unavoidably collect metal shavings and dirt. If you’re lucky this debris settles at the bottom of the pan instead of circulating through the entire system. For this reason, many auto repair shops choose to flush transmissions under pressure to remove as much of the metal shavings and dirt from your vehicle’s transmission.
Regular fluid changes extends the life of your vehicle. Transmissions need to have the fluid changed every 30 months or 30,000 miles. The exact interval or mileage will differ from vehicle to vehicle so ensure that you read your owner’s manual for information specific to your care, truck, SUV, or van. If you check your transmission fluid and it has a burnt smell or dark appearance you should change it sooner.
Signs You Need To Change Transmission Fluid
Unless you’re a master technician you likely don’t know the symptoms of worn-out transmission fluid. If your automatic transmission has any of the following symptoms it may well be time to change your transmission fluid.
- Vehicle will not engage a gear in forward or reverse.
- The transmission shift roughly from gear to gear.
- Your transmission slips as you drive.
- The transmission has unusual or louder noises.
If you’ve experienced any of these symptoms you should consider changing your transmission fluid or have your transmission fluid changed by an automotive service shop.
Conclusion
Replacing transmission fluid can be a quick, DIY task. Remember to check the fluid level regularly to ensure the transmission is in the best shape possible. Monitoring the levels regularly can prevent costly future repairs.
Live In The Scottsdale Area? Get Your Inspection Done At Bridwell Automotive Center!
Get your road trip inspection and preparation service done at Bridwell Automotive Center, located at 7171 E Lincoln Dr. Scottsdale, Arizona 85253 or call (480) 948-4781 for more information.
