Wondering when is a Transmission Fluid Change Needed?

If you are starting to notice transmission issues (see the list below), you may find yourself wondering when is a transmission fluid change needed?  Although transmission fluid could remain in your vehicle for as long as you drive without changing it, most auto mechanics would tell you that the transmission fluid should be changed about every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.

If you recognize the purpose of transmission fluid, you will recognize why your auto mechanic may recommend scheduling a transmission service to flush the transmission.  The main purpose of transmission fluid is to lubricate surfaces and components of the transmission, which helps prevent excessive friction and overheating.  Also, as the transmission fluid, it is transmitting power from the engine to the transmission.  Eventually, if there are leaks in the transmission or there are worn-out or damaged components, the level of fluid can become dangerously low due.  

So how do you know when is a transmission fluid change needed?  Watch for these signs:

1. Delayed Shifting. The gears won’t engage instantly if there isn’t enough pressure in the transmission fluid. 
2. Difficulty Shifting. If there is a lot of dirt in the transmission fluid, the gears may change either too fast or too slow, too abruptly, or too erratically. You also may hear grinding sounds coming from the transmission or see unusually high RPMs before the gears shift. 
3. Slipping gears.  Although you know you changed gear, it seems to fall back out of that gear.  It is likely that the friction material on the clutches and transmission bands cannot securely hold the gear in place. 
4. Transmission Overheats. The transmission fluid keeps the automatic transmission from overheating.  If you notice a burning smell along with loss of power, pull over instantly and let everything cool down.

Try topping off the transmission fluid. If this doesn’t do the job and the above symptoms persist, you may be facing a major transmission repair. 

Are you looking for quality transmission repair? Consult our ASE Certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for more information about when is a transmission fluid change needed and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.

When Should You Change Transmission Fluid?

If you’re wondering when should you change transmission fluid in your vehicle, you may want to know just what is the purpose of transmission fluid.  First, it lubricates all the surfaces and components of the transmission system to prevent the friction that causes overheating, and secondly, it transmits power from the engine to the transmission. 

A topic of controversy among mechanics is when should you change transmission fluid?  Some say that transmission fluid should never want to be changed.  But some vehicle manufacturers recommend replacing transmission fluid about every 100K miles, while some say about every 50K miles.  Find your owner’s manual to see what it has to say, and then discuss the topic with a trusted auto mechanic.

In spite of the facts above, it is a fact that transmission fluid deteriorates over time.  Particular driving conditions raise the transmission’s operating temperature and put more strain on the transmission and the fluid, such as frequent stop-and-go city driving, hauling weighty loads, or towing.   If your vehicle has a lot of miles, it could be that the transmission could be developing a leak.  

So when should you change transmission fluid?  If the fluid has turned darker than usual it may be time for a transmission flush. Or, if you start to notice a burned odor, it could an indication that the transmission is developing issues, such as 

1. Delayed shifting. 
2. Difficulty and/or noisy shifting.
3. Slipping in and out of gear. 
4. Overheating and burning smell.

If you have the transmission fluid inspected about every month, you can keep tabs on its condition, and prevent an expensive transmission repair down the road. 

Are you wondering when should you change transmission fluid in your vehicle?  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for more information about a transmission fluid change and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.