Transmission fluid is vital for shifting gears in cars with automatic transmission. If this fluid is low or dirty, it can cause the transmission to slip and fail. In a manual transmission, the lack of this fluid can make the transmission noisy and eventually lead to its failure. It is important to opt for a transmission fluid replacement service as soon as you notice problems with it. Here’s everything you want to know about this service.
What is Transmission Fluid and What does it Do?
A car’s transmission is the component that transfers power from the engine to the wheels. And it contains a fluid known as transmission fluid. The main job of transmission fluid is to lubricate the transmission’s internal parts and keep them cool.
In cars with automatic transmission, the transmission system contains an oil pan that houses the transmission fluid and the fluid filter. This fluid supplies the power required to shift gears. However, this is not the case in cars with manual transmission.
In manual transmission vehicles, there’s a separate case that carries the transmission fluid. Moreover, the fluid isn’t responsible for supplying power to change gears in a manual transmission system.
Why is Transmission Fluid Replacement Necessary?
In an Automatic transmission vehicle, since the transmission fluid is responsible for shifting gears, if it’s low or contaminated, the transmission can start to slip and might eventually fail as well. According to research, low or contaminated transmission fluid contributes to around 90% of transmission failures in vehicles with automatic transmission.
On the other hand, in manual transmission vehicles, low transmission fluid can cause the internal parts of the transmission to wear faster and may lead to eventual transmission failure.
Remember that a vehicle with a manual transmission doesn’t have a transmission fluid filter. This means that the transmission fluid can easily get contaminated. Thus, it is important to inspect the transmission fluid regularly. Getting the transmission fluid replaced at the right time is crucial for both manual and automatic cars.
When should you Replace the Transmission Fluid?
Ideally, you should replace the transmission fluid every 40,000 miles. It is recommended to get the transmission fluid level checked every time you service your car. Replacing the transmission fluid regularly will help you keep your car running smoothly for a longer time.
Here are the symptoms that indicate you need to replace the transmission fluid:
- When the vehicle doesn’t run smoothly
- The vehicle stalls while going up and down a steep incline
- The Check Engine Light on your dashboard is illuminated
- The car’s transmission is making a weird noise
If you face any of the above issues, get your car thoroughly inspected by an expert mechanic. Swezo’s certified mechanics will replace the pan gasket, the filer as well as the transmission fluid as part of our transmission fluid service. However, certain vehicles don’t have a serviceable transmission filter.
Furthermore, some transmissions are designed in a way that they don’t require any service or maintenance. They are known as “sealed for life” transmissions. Do read your car’s owner manual to find out if your car has a sealed system.
Also Read: Wheel Hub Assembly Replacement Service
How is it Done?
When you take your car to an expert mechanic and they inspect the transmission fluid, if the fluid is low or dirty, they will replace it in the following manner:
For Automatic cars
- The transmission fluid will be drained
- A new pan gasket and a fluid filter will be installed if the filter is replaceable
- The right type and quantity of transmission fluid will be filled
- The mechanic will check the vehicle for leaks and test drive it to ensure smooth operation
Final Words
Transmission fluid is important for the proper functioning of your car’s transmission, especially in automatic cars. We recommend transmission fluid replacement at every 40,000 miles. If you hear a noise from your transmission or find the fluid leaking or contaminated, post a request on Swezo and our certified and verified mechanics will contact you instantly with their best quotes.
