When is a Transmission Fluid Change Needed?
If you are starting to notice transmission problems (see the list below), you may find yourself wondering when is a transmission fluid change needed? Although transmission fluid could remain in your vehicle for as long as you drive without changing it, some mechanics would tell you that the transmission fluid should be changed about every 50,000 miles.
If you understand the purpose of transmission fluid, you will understand why your mechanic may recommend scheduling a transmission service to flush the transmission. The main purpose of transmission fluid is to lubricate surfaces and components of the transmission, which helps prevent excessive friction and overheating. Also, as the fluid flows through the engine, it is transmitting power from the engine to the transmission. Eventually, if there are leaks in the transmission or there are worn-out or damaged components, the level of fluid can become dangerously low.
So how do you know when is a transmission fluid change needed? Watch for these signs:
- Delayed Shifting. The gears won’t engage immediately if there isn’t enough pressure in the fluid.
- Difficulty Shifting. If there is a lot of dirt or residue in the transmission fluid, the gears may change either too fast or too slow, too abruptly, or too erratically. You also may hear grinding sounds coming from the transmission or see unusually high RPMs before the gears shift.
- Slipping gears. Although you know you changed gear, it seems to fall back out of that gear. It is likely that the friction material on the clutches and transmission bands cannot securely hold the gear in place.
- Transmission Overheats. The transmission fluid keeps the automatic transmission from overheating. If you notice a burning smell or smokiness along with loss of power, pull over immediately and let everything cool down.
Try topping off the transmission fluid. If this doesn’t do the job and the above symptoms persist, you may be facing a major transmission repair.
Looking for quality transmission repair? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for more information about when is a transmission fluid change needed and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.
If you are starting to notice transmission problems (see the list below), you may find yourself wondering when is a transmission fluid change needed? Although transmission fluid could remain in your vehicle for as long as you drive without changing it, some mechanics would tell you that the transmission fluid should be changed about every 50,000 miles.
If you understand the purpose of transmission fluid, you will understand why your mechanic may recommend scheduling a transmission service to flush the transmission. The main purpose of transmission fluid is to lubricate surfaces and components of the transmission, which helps prevent excessive friction and overheating. Also, as the fluid flows through the engine, it is transmitting power from the engine to the transmission. Eventually, if there are leaks in the transmission or there are worn-out or damaged components, the level of fluid can become dangerously low.
So how do you know when is a transmission fluid change needed? Watch for these signs:
- Delayed Shifting. The gears won’t engage immediately if there isn’t enough pressure in the fluid.
- Difficulty Shifting. If there is a lot of dirt or residue in the transmission fluid, the gears may change either too fast or too slow, too abruptly, or too erratically. You also may hear grinding sounds coming from the transmission or see unusually high RPMs before the gears shift.
- Slipping gears. Although you know you changed gear, it seems to fall back out of that gear. It is likely that the friction material on the clutches and transmission bands cannot securely hold the gear in place.
- Transmission Overheats. The transmission fluid keeps the automatic transmission from overheating. If you notice a burning smell or smokiness along with loss of power, pull over immediately and let everything cool down.
Try topping off the transmission fluid. If this doesn’t do the job and the above symptoms persist, you may be facing a major transmission repair.
Looking for quality transmission repair? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for more information about when is a transmission fluid change needed and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.
