If you’re like most drivers, you may not think much about your transmission fluid until there’s a problem. But understanding more about this important automotive fluid can help you keep your car running smoothly and avoid costly repairs. We’ll answer some of the most common questions car owners ask about transmission fluid – what it is exactly, why it needs to be changed, and how to take the best care of your transmission on an ongoing basis. So read on to learn more and feel confident about caring for your vehicle.
Your car’s transmission is one of the most important components, and it’s essential to keep it in good condition by changing the transmission fluid regularly. So what is transmission fluid? What does it do? And why do you need to change it? How often should you change your transmission fluid and what are the consequences of avoiding this important task?
Transmission fluid is a mixture of base oils and additives that work together to lubricate and protect the moving parts of your transmission and keep it working properly. The fluid also helps to continually clean and protect the transmission from corrosion. The additives act as preservatives to protect the transmission from wear and tear. The base oils in transmission fluid are typically petroleum-based, but can also be synthetic.
Over time, transmission fluid can break down and become contaminated, which can lead to problems with your car’s shifting performance. That’s why it’s important to change the fluid regularly, as specified in your car’s owner’s manual.
If you don’t change your transmission fluid often enough, or if you use the wrong type of fluid, it can cause serious damage to your transmission. It may become overheated and permanent damage could be done. Typically, you won’t know there is a problem with your fluid until after the damage has been done, so having it changed regularly is the best method to avoid issues. In extreme cases, not changing your transmission fluid could even lead to a complete breakdown of the transmission. That’s why it’s important to be proactive about transmission maintenance and to know when it’s time for a change.
So how often should you change your transmission fluid? In general, you should change it every 30,000 miles or so. However, this may vary depending on the type of vehicle you drive, how often you drive it, and the conditions in which you typically operate it. If you do a lot of stop-and-go driving in hot weather, for example, you may need to change your fluid more often. You should always consult your car’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations about transmission fluid changes.
Remember, changing your transmission fluid is an important part of keeping your car running smoothly and avoiding costly repairs. So make sure to add it to your regular maintenance schedule and always be sure to use the right type of fluid for your vehicle. With proper care, you can keep your transmission in good condition and on the road for many years to come. Thanks for reading and happy driving!