Many of the most common issues related to the transmission can be traced back to a lack of the proper amount of liquid or the right quality of ATF in the automobile. If you are facing car transmission issues of any kind, you should immediately check your transmission fluid levels and quality. Signs You May Need A Transmission Fluid Change The last thing you need is to replace your transmission - a costly repair that could severely impact your wallet. The chemical compounds in ATF will not only keep your transmission components cooled off while driving but will also keep each element fully functional over the lifetime of your vehicle.
An average transmission contains many interlocking parts that must remain fully lubricated to avoid particle buildup and dryness that can lead to grinding, overheating, or breakage. The transmission itself is much more than a single component in your vehicle. These additives work with the oil to create the proper lubrication needed for many essential mechanical elements throughout the car. ATF is typically manufactured with a refined mixture of base oil and a combination of additives.
While both automatic and manual transmission vehicles utilize transmission fluid, the most commonly used fluid is Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF). You have likely heard of transmission fluid, but have you ever taken the time to understand what the chemical concoction is, and what it is does under the hood?
Add some clarity to transmission fluid with this guide covering everything from maintenance best practices to how to spot signs of trouble. Depending on the dipstick, the markings can vary, but if it reveals you have enough transmission fluid, then you are good to go.Your car’s transmission - and the fluid that keeps it working - can be a mystery. Use the funnel and add the transmission fluid.ħ) Once the transmission is filled, put the dipstick back in.Ĩ) Start your vehicle and let the engine run for about a few minutes to reach the optimal operating temperature.ĩ) When the transmission fluid is warm, check the fluid level with a dipstick. Let's learn how to change the automatic transmission fluid step by step.ġ) Jack your vehicle up to locate the transmission fluid drain plug beneath your car.Ģ) Put a catch pan under it and carefully loosen the drain plug to allow the fluid to drain.ģ) With the fluid drained, put the drain plug back in its place with a wrench.Ĥ) To refill your transmission fluid, check your owner's manual and it will specify which product you should use.ĥ) To know the correct amount of the fluid you should put in, use a translucent bottle with the measurements on its side to know how much fluid you need.Ħ) Refill your transmission fluid through the dipstick hole. The process of changing your transmission fluid is similar to changing your engine oil.
Also, at the bottom of the dipstick, there are the minimum and maximum markings, so you can check the fluid level as well. If the fluid has gotten darker or looks dirty, it's probably time to change the fluid. Take the dipstick out of the tool and wipe it with a clean towel to see its fluid state. First, locate the transmission dipstick while the engine is running. Nevertheless, if you are doing the transmission fluid check on your own, you can take the simple steps as follows. However, under severe usage conditions, it needs to be replaced about every 90,000km(60,000 miles). Visit an authorized dealer/service partner for a more accurate transmission fluid check. To know when to check your transmission fluid, you need to check your owner's manual, but generally speaking, it doesn't need to be checked or serviced under normal usage conditions.
So, having your transmission fluid checked by a professional mechanic is good for your transmission system. As it circulates through the parts, it can pick up dirt and metal debris over time. Transmission fluid plays a crucial role in lubricating the components of your transmission and prevents wear and tear of the parts.