What Kind of Transmission Fluid Does My Car Take?

Your car’s transmission is a complex and essential component that requires the right type of fluid to function properly. Using the wrong fluid can lead to serious damage, so it’s important to know what kind of transmission fluid your car takes.

How to Find Out What Kind of Transmission Fluid Your Car Takes

There are a few different ways to find out what kind of transmission fluid your car takes.

• Check your owner’s manual. This is the most reliable way to find the correct information for your specific car.
• Look for a sticker on the transmission dipstick. This sticker will usually list the type of fluid that the transmission requires.
• Call your local dealership. They will be able to look up the correct fluid for your car.

Different Types of Transmission Fluid

There are several different types of transmission fluid available, each with its own unique properties.

• Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is the most common type of transmission fluid. It is used in automatic transmissions, which are found in most cars and trucks.
• Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) is used in manual transmissions, which are found in some cars and trucks. MTF is typically thicker than ATF and has different additives to protect the gears in a manual transmission.
• Continuously Variable Transmission Fluid (CVTF) is used in continuously variable transmissions (CVTs), which are found in some cars and trucks. CVTF is typically thinner than ATF and has different additives to protect the belts and pulleys in a CVT.

How to Change Transmission Fluid

Changing transmission fluid is a relatively simple process that can be done at home with a few basic tools.

1. Gather your materials. You will need:
   • New transmission fluid
   • Transmission filter (if applicable)
   • Transmission pan gasket (if applicable)
   • Funnel
   • Wrench
   • Drain pan
2. Locate the transmission pan. The transmission pan is usually located on the bottom of the transmission. It is held in place by bolts.
3. Remove the transmission pan. Be careful not to spill any fluid when you remove the pan.
4. Replace the transmission filter (if applicable). The transmission filter is usually located in the transmission pan.
5. Replace the transmission pan gasket (if applicable). The transmission pan gasket is a thin rubber gasket that seals the transmission pan to the transmission.
6. Add new transmission fluid. Use a funnel to add new transmission fluid to the transmission. Fill the transmission to the level indicated on the transmission dipstick.
7. Reinstall the transmission pan. Tighten the bolts that hold the transmission pan in place.
8. Check the transmission fluid level. Start the car and let it run for a few minutes. Then, check the transmission fluid level on the transmission dipstick. Add more fluid if necessary.

How Often to Change Transmission Fluid

The frequency with which you need to change your transmission fluid depends on your driving habits and the type of transmission fluid you are using.

• If you drive in severe conditions, such as stop-and-go traffic or towing heavy loads, you may need to change your transmission fluid more often.
• If you use synthetic transmission fluid, you may be able to go longer between changes.

In general, it is a good idea to change your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.

Conclusion

Using the right type of transmission fluid is essential for the proper functioning of your car’s transmission. By following the tips in this article, you can ensure that your car has the right fluid for its transmission and that you are changing the fluid at the correct intervals.