Changing Transmission Fluid on a High Mileage Car
Why is it important to change transmission fluid?
Transmission fluid is a vital part of your car’s transmission system. It helps to lubricate the moving parts of the transmission, prevent wear and tear, and keep the transmission running smoothly. Over time, transmission fluid can become contaminated with dirt, metal shavings, and other debris. This can lead to transmission problems, such as slipping gears, difficulty shifting, and even total transmission failure.
Changing transmission fluid is one of the most important things you can do to maintain your car’s transmission and extend its life. It is especially important to change transmission fluid on a high mileage car, as the transmission has likely been subjected to more wear and tear than a newer car.
How often should you change transmission fluid?
The frequency with which you should change transmission fluid depends on a number of factors, including the type of transmission, the type of fluid used, and the driving conditions. In general, it is a good idea to change transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. However, if you drive your car in severe conditions, such as in stop-and-go traffic or in extreme heat or cold, you may need to change transmission fluid more often.
What type of transmission fluid should you use?
The type of transmission fluid you use is important. Using the wrong type of fluid can damage your transmission. The best way to determine the correct type of transmission fluid for your car is to consult your owner’s manual.
How to change transmission fluid
Changing transmission fluid is a relatively simple process. However, it is important to follow the steps carefully to avoid damaging your transmission.
1. Gather your materials. You will need:
* New transmission fluid
* A transmission fluid pan
* A funnel
* A wrench
* A rag
2. Park your car on a level surface. Engage the parking brake.
3. Locate the transmission fluid pan. It is usually located at the bottom of the transmission.
4. Place the transmission fluid pan under the transmission fluid pan.
5. Loosen the drain plug on the transmission fluid pan. Be careful not to drop the drain plug into the transmission fluid pan.
6. Allow the transmission fluid to drain into the transmission fluid pan.
7. Once the transmission fluid has drained, tighten the drain plug.
8. Remove the transmission fluid pan. Be careful not to spill any transmission fluid.
9. Clean the transmission fluid pan with a rag.
10. Install the new transmission fluid filter.
11. Reinstall the transmission fluid pan.
12. Add new transmission fluid to the transmission. Use a funnel to add the transmission fluid.
13. Check the transmission fluid level. The transmission fluid level should be between the “full” and “add” marks on the transmission fluid dipstick.
14. Start your car and let it run for a few minutes. This will circulate the new transmission fluid throughout the transmission.
15. Recheck the transmission fluid level. Make sure that the transmission fluid level is still between the “full” and “add” marks on the transmission fluid dipstick.
Tips for changing transmission fluid
* Use the correct type of transmission fluid for your car.
* Follow the steps carefully to avoid damaging your transmission.
* If you are not comfortable changing transmission fluid yourself, you can take your car to a mechanic.
* Changing transmission fluid is a relatively inexpensive way to maintain your car’s transmission and extend its life.
Conclusion
Changing transmission fluid is an important part of car maintenance. It is especially important to change transmission fluid on a high mileage car. By following the steps in this guide, you can change transmission fluid yourself and save money on car repair costs.
