Do You Leave Car Running to Change Transmission Fluid?
The answer to this question depends on the make and model of your car, as well as the type of transmission fluid you are using. In general, it is not necessary to leave your car running to change the transmission fluid, but there are some cases where it may be helpful.
When to Leave Your Car Running
There are a few situations where it may be helpful to leave your car running when changing the transmission fluid:
* If you are using a synthetic transmission fluid. Synthetic transmission fluids are designed to flow more easily than conventional fluids, so they can be more difficult to drain from the transmission. Leaving the car running can help to keep the fluid warm and flowing, making it easier to drain.
* If your car has a turbocharger or supercharger. Turbochargers and superchargers can create a lot of heat, which can cause the transmission fluid to break down more quickly. Leaving the car running can help to keep the fluid cool and prevent it from breaking down.
* If your car has a CVT transmission. CVT transmissions are continuously variable transmissions, which means that they do not have gears. Instead, they use a belt or chain to transfer power from the engine to the wheels. CVT transmissions can be more sensitive to transmission fluid changes, so it is important to keep the fluid warm when changing it.
When to Turn Your Car Off
In most cases, it is not necessary to leave your car running when changing the transmission fluid. However, there are a few situations where you should turn your car off:
* If you are using a conventional transmission fluid. Conventional transmission fluids are thicker than synthetic fluids, so they do not need to be kept warm to flow easily. Turning your car off will help to prevent the fluid from leaking out of the transmission.
* If your car has a manual transmission. Manual transmissions do not have a torque converter, so they do not need to be kept running to lubricate the gears. Turning your car off will help to save gas and reduce emissions.
* If you are not comfortable changing the transmission fluid yourself. If you are not comfortable changing the transmission fluid yourself, it is best to take your car to a mechanic. They will be able to change the fluid safely and correctly.
How to Change Transmission Fluid
If you are comfortable changing the transmission fluid yourself, here are the steps you need to follow:
1. Gather your materials. You will need:
* New transmission fluid
* A transmission fluid filter
* A transmission fluid pan gasket
* A funnel
* A wrench
* A drain pan
2. Prepare your car. Park your car on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Allow the engine to cool down for at least 30 minutes.
3. Locate the transmission pan. The transmission pan is located at the bottom of the transmission. It is usually held in place by bolts or screws.
4. Drain the old transmission fluid. Place the drain pan under the transmission pan and loosen the drain plug. Allow the old transmission fluid to drain out.
5. Replace the transmission fluid filter. Once the old transmission fluid has drained out, remove the transmission fluid filter and replace it with a new one.
6. Replace the transmission fluid pan gasket. Remove the old transmission fluid pan gasket and replace it with a new one.
7. Reinstall the transmission pan. Tighten the bolts or screws that hold the transmission pan in place.
8. Add new transmission fluid. Use a funnel to add new transmission fluid to the transmission. Fill the transmission to the proper level, as indicated on the dipstick.
9. Check for leaks. Start your car and check for leaks. If you see any leaks, tighten the bolts or screws that hold the transmission pan in place.
Conclusion
Changing the transmission fluid is an important part of maintaining your car. By following the steps outlined above, you can change the transmission fluid yourself and save money on labor costs. However, if you are not comfortable changing the transmission fluid yourself, it is best to take your car to a mechanic.
