Why Automatic Transmission Fluid Changes Are Essential
Automatic transmission fluid is essential for your car's transmission to function properly. Your vehicle won't run smoothly without enough fluid, which can lead to expensive repairs or total transmission failure.
In this article, we will show you why regular automatic transmission fluid changes are essential for the health and performance of your car and how it affects its lifespan.
What Is Transmission Fluid?
Transmission fluid helps keep moving parts lubricated and cools the system while driving. It also makes gear changes smooth and powers parts like the torque converter, which allows power to flow effortlessly from the engine to the wheels.
Using the correct type of transmission fluid is important, and each car needs a specific type of fluid for its transmission system to work properly.
Over time, transmission fluid can wear out due to heat and use, and if not changed regularly, the transmission can become damaged due to greater friction and overheating. In addition to damage caused to the transmission, this may also damage parts like the transmission pan, torque converter, and pan gasket.
Why Regular Transmission Fluid Changes Matter
Prevent Wear and Tear
As transmission fluid ages, it cannot lubricate and cool effectively, and sometimes, a buildup of dirt and metal pieces occurs, which can damage internal parts and lead to more wear. Changing the transmission fluid often helps remove dirt and keeps the fluid working correctly.
Improve Vehicle Performance
Dirty or old fluid can make it harder for your vehicle to shift gears and greatly diminish its performance while driving. This can also cause unusual noises in your transmission and even cause gears to skip. However, changing the transmission fluid regularly and on time will keep everything running smoothly and will keep your vehicle running at its highest performance.
Extend Transmission Lifespan
Neglecting to check your transmission fluid may result in serious issues, such as overheating or gear failure, which can be expensive to repair. Regularly changing the fluid protects components like the torque converter and the transmission pan, helping to extend the lifespan of your vehicle's transmission.
Avoid Expensive Repairs
Replacing a broken component of a car's system can be quite expensive. Regularly changing the fluid is a small expense that can help you save on repairs.
How Often Should You Change Transmission Fluid?
It depends on your car's make and model, as well as the type of transmission it has. Many car manufacturers recommend changing the fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.
However, if you drive in difficult conditions, you might need to change it more frequently. Check your owner’s manual or consult a qualified technician for advice tailored to your car.
How Auto Tech Can Help You
Auto Tech is a reliable choice for all your transmission fluid changes and services. Our experienced team knows how to handle everything, including transmission fluid exchanges with factory-recommended fluid, performance road tests while scanning the computer, checking for fluid leaks, and torque transmission pan bolts proper specification.
Why You Should Choose Auto Tech
- Expertise: Our team at Auto Tech is skilled at changing the transmission fluid and performing various routine tasks, ensuring you receive excellent service.
- Detailed Inspections: While servicing, we inspect critical components such as the transmission pan, pan gasket, and torque converter, allowing us to identify potential issues early.
- Test Drives: Once the transmission work is complete, our technicians conduct a test drive to verify that the system operates correctly and adheres to the required standards.
- Quality Products: We utilize manufacturer-approved automatic transmission fluid, which is specifically suited to your vehicle's requirements.
Conclusion
Regular fluid changes aren’t just optional; they’re essential for keeping your vehicle in top condition. This maintenance promotes reliability and safety. Overlooking this simple task can lead to significant damage, costly repairs, and a shortened lifespan for your transmission.
Auto Tech provides exceptional
auto
repair services to keep your car's system in great shape. Schedule your fluid change today, and you’ll notice how your vehicle operates more smoothly and lasts longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs that my transmission fluid needs to be changed?
Common signs include delayed or rough gear shifts, a burning smell, or unusual noises coming from the transmission.
Can I check my transmission fluid at home?
Yes, most vehicles have a dipstick for checking transmission fluid levels. However, most vehicles that are 2012 or newer have no dipstick. This is why, here at Auto Tech, we change transmission fluid every 60,000-80,000 miles. If it does have a dipstick, consult your owner's manual on how to properly check transmission fluid levels, whether that be while the vehicle is running or off.
What happens if I don’t change my transmission fluid?
Neglecting fluid changes can lead to overheating, increased wear on components, and eventual transmission failure.
How is a transmission flush different from a fluid change?
A flush completely replaces old fluid, while a change involves draining and refilling most of the fluid. Both have benefits, depending on your vehicle’s condition.
Does driving style affect how often I need a fluid change?
Yes, frequent towing, stop-and-go traffic, and harsh driving conditions can require more frequent changes to maintain optimal performance.
