Best Transmission Fluid for High Mileage Cars
Introduction
As your car ages, its transmission will require more care and maintenance. This includes changing the transmission fluid regularly. The right transmission fluid can help to extend the life of your transmission and prevent costly repairs.
What to Look for in a Transmission Fluid for High Mileage Cars
When choosing a transmission fluid for a high mileage car, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- Viscosity: The viscosity of a transmission fluid is a measure of its thickness. A higher viscosity fluid will provide more protection for your transmission, but it can also make it harder to shift gears. For high mileage cars, a lower viscosity fluid is usually a better choice.
- Additives: Transmission fluids contain a variety of additives that help to protect your transmission from wear and tear. These additives can include detergents, anti-oxidants, and anti-wear agents. Look for a transmission fluid that contains a good balance of additives.
- Compatibility: Make sure that the transmission fluid you choose is compatible with your car’s transmission. You can check your car’s owner’s manual to find out which type of transmission fluid is recommended.
Recommended Transmission Fluids for High Mileage Cars
Here are a few of the best transmission fluids for high mileage cars:
- Amsoil Signature Series Multi-Vehicle Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid: This transmission fluid is designed for use in a wide variety of vehicles, including high mileage cars. It has a low viscosity and contains a high concentration of anti-wear additives.
- Red Line D4 ATF: This transmission fluid is specifically designed for use in high mileage cars. It has a low viscosity and contains a high concentration of detergents and anti-oxidants.
- Lucas Oil Synthetic Transmission Fluid: This transmission fluid is made with a blend of synthetic and conventional oils. It has a low viscosity and contains a high concentration of anti-wear additives.
How to Change the Transmission Fluid in Your High Mileage Car
Changing the transmission fluid in your high mileage car is a relatively simple process. However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid any damage to your transmission.
Here are the steps on how to change the transmission fluid in your high mileage car:
- Gather the following materials:
- New transmission fluid
- Transmission filter (if applicable)
- Transmission pan gasket
- Drain pan
- Funnel
- Wrench
- Park your car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Locate the transmission pan. It is usually located at the bottom of the transmission.
- Place the drain pan under the transmission pan.
- Loosen the bolts that hold the transmission pan in place. Be careful not to drop the bolts into the drain pan.
- Remove the transmission pan and drain the old transmission fluid into the drain pan.
- Clean the transmission pan and the mating surface on the transmission.
- Install a new transmission filter, if applicable.
- Install a new transmission pan gasket.
- Reinstall the transmission pan and tighten the bolts.
- Add the new transmission fluid to the transmission through the filler hole.
- Check the transmission fluid level and add more fluid if necessary.
Conclusion
Changing the transmission fluid in your high mileage car is an important part of maintaining your vehicle. By following the tips in this article, you can choose the right transmission fluid for your car and change it correctly to help extend the life of your transmission.