Transmission Fluid in Car

What is Transmission Fluid?

Transmission fluid is a type of hydraulic fluid used in automatic and manual transmissions in cars. It is responsible for lubricating the gears, bearings, and other moving parts in the transmission, and it also helps to cool the transmission and prevent wear and tear. Transmission fluid is typically made from a petroleum base, but some synthetic fluids are also available.

Why is Transmission Fluid Important?

Transmission fluid is essential for the proper functioning of a car’s transmission. Without transmission fluid, the gears and bearings in the transmission would quickly wear out, and the transmission would eventually fail. Transmission fluid also helps to cool the transmission and prevent overheating, which can damage the transmission and other components of the car.

How to Check Transmission Fluid

You should check the transmission fluid level in your car regularly, especially if you are experiencing any problems with the transmission. To check the transmission fluid level:

1. Park the car on a level surface and turn off the engine.
2. Open the hood and locate the transmission fluid dipstick.
3. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean.
4. Reinsert the dipstick into the transmission and pull it out again.
5. Check the fluid level on the dipstick. The fluid level should be between the “full” and “add” marks on the dipstick.

How to Change Transmission Fluid

If the transmission fluid level is low, you will need to add transmission fluid to the transmission. You can also change the transmission fluid if it is old or dirty. To change the transmission fluid:

1. Park the car on a level surface and turn off the engine.
2. Open the hood and locate the transmission fluid drain plug.
3. Place a drain pan under the transmission fluid drain plug.
4. Loosen the drain plug and allow the transmission fluid to drain out.
5. Once the transmission fluid has drained out, tighten the drain plug.
6. Locate the transmission fluid fill plug.
7. Insert a funnel into the transmission fluid fill plug.
8. Add new transmission fluid to the transmission until the fluid level reaches the “full” mark on the dipstick.

Transmission Fluid Maintenance

To keep your transmission in good condition, it is important to have the transmission fluid regularly serviced. The transmission fluid should be checked every 30,000 miles or so, and it should be changed every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. You should also have the transmission fluid flushed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. A transmission fluid flush is a more thorough way to clean the transmission fluid and remove any contaminants.