In order to get the most out of your vehicle’s transmission, you need to know when to change your transmission fluid.
The frequency of how often you should check the transmission fluid depends on the type and the model. AMS Jet Transmissions is here to help you keep your car operational.
What is Transmission Fluid Used for?
Transmission fluid is used to lubricate the moving parts that make up your vehicle’s transmission. This also helps to keep your transmission at the appropriate operating temperature and assists with facilitating gear shifts.
Transmission fluid should not be confused with engine oil, which is primarily used as a lubricant and acquires combustion contaminants over time.
Signs That Transmission Fluid Needs Changed
Depending on what type of transmission you have, you may never need to change the fluid. However, if you start noticing a change in how your vehicle behaves during driving, your fluid quality may be the culprit.
You may notice that your vehicle struggles to shift gears or feel a noticeable delay in acceleration from what you’re used to. You might also feel slipping, jumping, or thumps when changing gears. Finally, audible grinding is a sign that you need to take a look at your transmission immediately.
You can check your transmission fluid regularly to help stay ahead of potential issues. Fluid and oil colors can generally be a great indicator that you need to make some adjustments. If your transmission fluid is a deep brown or black, it means that the fluid is burned up and it’s time for a change.
When to Change Your Transmission Fluid
Transmission oil doesn’t burn up, so you won’t simply be looking to top off another fluid level. The reason for flushing and replacing transmission fluid is because your transmission inevitably will introduce metal particles and metal shavings into the fluid due to natural friction and wear. This contaminates the fluid and burns up, reducing the quality of the fluid.
On average, manual transmissions should have their fluid changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Automatic transmissions are typically serviced anywhere between 60,000 to 100,000 miles. That being said, new car models are coming equipped with sealed transmissions and fluid that can often last the entire lifespan of the vehicle.
As long as you keep up with your service intervals, you should extend the life of your transmission. However, it will not suddenly fix already present issues with your transmission.
Should I Flush My Transmission Fluid?
The predominant ways mechanics replace transmission fluid is either by draining it or power flushing it. The idea behind power flushing is that it cleanses the area of contaminated fluid to make way for new, clean fluid. However, it’s possible that flushing can dislodge contaminants and lead to new clogs even though the fluid is replaced.
In fact, some mechanics contest that a vehicle that’s had its transmission fluid for over 100,000 miles shouldn’t be replaced for this very reason. This is debatable depending on the expert, so it’s best to consult someone you trust as well as the manufacturer’s guide for your vehicle model.
Your manufacturer will provide information regarding the best transmission fluid to use for your vehicle as well as how often to perform fluid changes or flushes.
Transmission Fluid Changes – AMS Jet Transmissions
AMS is one of the best automotive performance shops in Florida. AMS Jet Transmissions has operated for over 30 years while helping the South Florida community with all transmission-related issues. Your transmission is a complicated and valuable component of your vehicle, and we pride ourselves on offering quick, affordable maintenance and repairs.
If you need to schedule a transmission check-up or a fluid change, give us a call at (954) 581-0390 to schedule your appointment today for auto transmission service!