Your transmission is responsible for transferring power from your engine to your wheels, making it possible for you to drive, so it's hard to overstate the importance this system holds or the necessity of keeping it in good working order. Luckily, just a little bit of transmission service goes a long way to keeping everything running smoothly. Schedule your service today and take a quick look at our promotions.
What is Transmission Fluid?
Whether your vehicle has an automatic or manual transmission, it requires transmission fluid, although each kind of transmission uses the fluid in very different ways. In an automatic, the fluid is used for lubrication and to provide hydraulic pressure for changing gears. The fluid lubricates and cools the gears and related components in a manual. The fluid itself can either be a mineral oil or a synthetic blend containing chemicals to prevent transmission corrosion and damage.
Why is Transmission Fluid Service So Important?
Your transmission relays power from the engine to the wheels. To properly do this job, it needs constant cooling and lubrication provided by the fluid in the transmission system. Over time, transmission fluid can break down because of constant use and contaminants entering the system. Even though it's protected in the transmission, moisture and grime can still work their way over time, causing a downgrade in performance. Fresh fluid keeps everything performing correctly. A properly lubricated system with regular fluid changes can help end your transmission's lifespan while driving more efficiently in the short term.
Signs of Transmission Fluid Trouble
Because transmission fluid holds up for tens of thousands of miles, it's easy to forget that it needs servicing, too. A rapid downgrade in performance can quickly remind you how important fresh fluid is, and signs that you're low on transmission fluid will include squealing or grating noises as your vehicle changes gears, indicating more friction than usual. Other signs include a burning smell that could be from your transmission overheating, irregular or hesitant shifting when you place the car in Drive or Reverse, and warning lights on your dashboard. If your system has a leak and transmission fluid is pooling beneath your car, it may have a brown or yellowish hue and appear oily.
How Often Should Transmission Fluid Be Replaced?
While transmission fluid replacement intervals vary among car types, a good rule of thumb is every 30,000 to 60,000 miles for manual transmissions and every 60,000 to 90,000 miles for automatic transmissions. The optimal time for changing your vehicle's fluid will also depend on things unique to your vehicle use, like regularly towing heavy loads. It's best to consult your owner's manual or technician for a more personalized service schedule.
Tips for Extending Your Transmission's Lifespan
Neglecting your transmission and fluid can seriously affect your vehicle and wallet. Conversely, regular service can have lasting benefits and make your vehicle a pleasure to drive. Having a technician check your transmission fluid regularly for signs of trouble will help to catch issues early and save you money on expensive repairs. If you delay service to your transmission, you may experience unwanted results, like overheating and causing damage to its components, gears slipping or changing erratically, and even total failure of your transmission system, leaving you stranded and facing an expensive repair or replacement bill. Regular transmission service and fluid replacement can help you avoid extensive transmission damage.
You can also make a few driving habits part of your routine to help extend your transmission's overall lifespan, like using the parking brake to reduce stress on the transmission, parking in a garage or covered location, and not riding the brake while driving.
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