Putting Transmission Fluid in Your Car

Why is Transmission Fluid Important?

Transmission fluid is a vital part of your car’s transmission system. It lubricates the moving parts of the transmission, helps to dissipate heat, and prevents wear and tear. Without transmission fluid, your transmission would quickly fail.

How Often Should I Change My Transmission Fluid?

The frequency with which you should change your transmission fluid depends on a number of factors, including the type of transmission you have, your driving habits, and the climate in which you live. However, most experts recommend changing your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.

How to Check Your Transmission Fluid

Before you can change your transmission fluid, you need to check the level. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Park your car on a level surface and turn off the engine.
2. Locate the transmission fluid dipstick. It is usually located near the back of the engine, near the transmission.
3. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag.
4. Reinsert the dipstick into the transmission and pull it out again.
5. Check the level of the fluid on the dipstick. It should be between the two marks on the dipstick.

How to Change Your Transmission Fluid

Once you have checked the level of your transmission fluid, you can change it if necessary. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Gather your materials. You will need:
• New transmission fluid
• A funnel
• A wrench
• A drain pan
2. Park your car on a level surface and turn off the engine.
3. Locate the transmission fluid drain plug. It is usually located on the bottom of the transmission.
4. Place the drain pan under the transmission fluid drain plug.
5. Use the wrench to loosen the drain plug and allow the fluid to drain into the pan.
6. Once the fluid has drained, replace the drain plug and tighten it with the wrench.
7. Locate the transmission fluid fill plug. It is usually located on the side of the transmission.
8. Insert the funnel into the fill plug and add new transmission fluid until the level is between the two marks on the dipstick.
9. Replace the fill plug and tighten it with the wrench.

Tips for Changing Your Transmission Fluid

• Always consult your car’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to change your transmission fluid.
• Use the correct type of transmission fluid for your car.
• Do not overfill your transmission with fluid.
• If you are not comfortable changing your transmission fluid yourself, you can have it done by a mechanic.