What Does Transmission Fluid Do for a Car?
Introduction
Transmission fluid is a critical component of any vehicle’s drivetrain. It helps to keep the transmission running smoothly and efficiently, and it can also extend the life of the transmission. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what transmission fluid does for a car, and why it’s so important.
How Transmission Fluid Works
Transmission fluid is a hydraulic fluid that is used to transmit power from the engine to the transmission. It also helps to lubricate the gears and bearings in the transmission, and it can help to prevent overheating.
When you shift gears, the transmission fluid is pressurized and sent to the appropriate gears. This pressurized fluid helps to engage the gears and transfer power from the engine to the wheels.
In addition to its role in power transfer, transmission fluid also helps to lubricate the gears and bearings in the transmission. This lubrication helps to reduce wear and tear on the transmission components, and it can help to extend the life of the transmission.
Finally, transmission fluid can help to prevent overheating in the transmission. The fluid helps to dissipate heat from the gears and bearings, and it can also help to prevent the transmission from overheating due to friction.
Types of Transmission Fluid
There are two main types of transmission fluid: automatic transmission fluid (ATF) and manual transmission fluid (MTF). ATF is used in automatic transmissions, while MTF is used in manual transmissions.
ATF is typically a red or orange color, and it is formulated to withstand the high temperatures and pressures that are found in automatic transmissions. MTF is typically a yellow or green color, and it is formulated to provide better lubrication for the gears and bearings in manual transmissions.
When to Change Transmission Fluid
The transmission fluid in your car should be changed regularly to maintain its effectiveness. The frequency of transmission fluid changes will vary depending on the make and model of your car, as well as your driving habits. However, most manufacturers recommend changing the transmission fluid every 30,000 to 50,000 miles.
If you don’t change the transmission fluid regularly, it can break down and lose its effectiveness. This can lead to problems with shifting gears, transmission overheating, and even transmission failure.
How to Change Transmission Fluid
Changing the transmission fluid in your car is a relatively simple task that can be done at home with a few basic tools. Here are the steps involved:
1. Gather your materials. You will need:
– New transmission fluid
– A transmission fluid filter
– A drain pan
– A funnel
– A wrench
– A pair of gloves
2. Park your car on a level surface and let the engine cool down.
3. Locate the transmission fluid pan under the car. It is usually bolted to the bottom of the transmission.
4. Place the drain pan under the transmission fluid pan and loosen the drain plug.
5. Allow the transmission fluid to drain into the pan.
6. Once the transmission fluid has drained, remove the drain plug and replace the transmission fluid filter.
7. Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it securely.
8. Add new transmission fluid to the transmission through the fill plug.
9. Check the transmission fluid level and add more fluid as needed.
10. Start the engine and shift through all of the gears.
11. Check the transmission fluid level again and add more fluid as needed.
Conclusion
Transmission fluid is a critical component of any vehicle’s drivetrain. It helps to keep the transmission running smoothly and efficiently, and it can also extend the life of the transmission. Changing the transmission fluid regularly is one of the best ways to keep your car running in top condition.
