How Often Should You Put Transmission Fluid in Your Car?

Transmission Fluid: What It Is and Why It’s Important

Transmission fluid is a type of oil that helps to lubricate and cool the gears in your car’s transmission. It also helps to prevent the gears from wearing down too quickly and protects them from rust and corrosion.

Without transmission fluid, your car’s transmission would quickly become damaged and would eventually need to be replaced. That’s why it’s important to keep the transmission fluid in your car clean and at the proper level.

How Often Should You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

The frequency with which you should check your transmission fluid depends on your car’s make and model. However, most manufacturers recommend checking the transmission fluid at least once a year, or every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.

Checking the transmission fluid is a relatively simple process that can be done at home. Here are the steps:

1. Park your car on a level surface and allow the engine to cool down.
2. Locate the transmission fluid dipstick. It is usually located on the side of the engine or transmission.
3. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag.
4. Reinsert the dipstick into the transmission fluid reservoir and pull it out again.
5. Check the level of the transmission fluid on the dipstick. The fluid level should be between the two marks on the dipstick.
6. If the transmission fluid level is low, add more fluid until it reaches the proper level.

How Often Should You Change Your Transmission Fluid?

The frequency with which you should change your transmission fluid depends on your car’s make and model, as well as your driving habits. However, most manufacturers recommend changing the transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.

Changing the transmission fluid is a more complex process than checking the fluid level, and it is best left to a qualified mechanic. Here are the steps:

1. Drain the old transmission fluid from the transmission.
2. Replace the transmission filter.
3. Add new transmission fluid to the transmission.

Signs of Bad Transmission Fluid

There are several signs that can indicate that your transmission fluid is bad and needs to be changed.

• The transmission fluid is dark brown or black in color.
• The transmission fluid smells burnt.
• The transmission fluid is leaking from the transmission.
• The transmission slips or hesitates when shifting gears.
• The transmission makes a grinding or whining noise.

Conclusion

Transmission fluid is an essential part of your car’s transmission, and it is important to keep it clean and at the proper level. Checking the transmission fluid level is a simple process that can be done at home, and changing the transmission fluid is a more complex process that should be left to a qualified mechanic.

By following the manufacturer’s recommendations for checking and changing the transmission fluid, you can help to keep your car’s transmission running smoothly and efficiently for many years to come.