How Often Should You Change Your Transmission Fluid. The transmission fluid is one of the essential fluids in your vehicle. Therefore, it is vital to keep your transmission clean to absorb and dissipate heat efficiently. In addition, it will allow your transmission to shift smoothly and prevent gears from grinding when engaged.
Transmission fluid reduces friction between the transmission’s gears and bearings to help deliver the torque from the engine to the wheels.
Your engine oil needs to be changed every day. Your dealer might tell you that transmissions are affected by how much you drive.
Many auto manufacturers recommend changing your transmission fluid once every 30,000 miles. Some people also recommend changing your transmission fluid and filtering once every 50,000 miles.
You might use your vehicle for short trips and commutes, so you may go more miles before changing the transmission fluid.
Transmission fluid is what lubricates your car’s gears. They don’t require too much lubrication, fortunately. However, because it is continuously reapplied while you drive, this is why.
In addition, most fluids in your car can be reused and used repeatedly. Therefore, transmission fluid should be replaced every other month.
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What Colour is Transmission Fluid?
Like other fluids in your car, your transmission fluid is dyed to identify and diagnose faults.
Some transmission fluids may be yellow or blue from other manufacturers. However, most transmission fluids are red when they are first used. It makes them easier to identify.
The color of your transmission fluid is essential for identification. The fluid will darken as you age and wear, so it is easy to see when it is no longer performing correctly. Unfortunately, this can cause costly damage to your vehicle.
While the recommended replacement interval is between 30,000 to 50,000 miles, the color and consistency of your transmission fluid can tell you if it needs to be replaced sooner than you think.
How Often Should You Change Your Transmission Fluid.
Transmission Fluid Color Chart
To prevent serious problems, it is essential to replace your transmission fluid.
The transmission system is the most expensive and complex part of your vehicle. However, it is worth spending the extra money to keep it in good condition.
Based on the color of your transmission fluids, you can determine the required health and maintenance intervals before your vehicle is serviced.
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Transparent red
Fresh transmission fluid will be transparent in color and smell almost like petroleum. It is easy to identify because it has an oily feel.
You will notice changes in its appearance after it has been used. However, if it becomes less consistent over time, this could indicate more severe problems.
Semi-Transparent Light Brown
Your red transmission fluid will change to a lighter brown color after being used for some time. It indicates that it has been performing well and is getting the job done.
Transmission fluid that is semi-transparent or light brown is suitable. However, it should be checked regularly to prevent getting old or contaminated.
Opaque Dark Brown
Your worn transmission fluid will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. Unfortunately, it will then become much darker than the healthy fluid.
Transmission fluid can become old and dirty through use. It can lead to a lack of proper lubrication, wear, and damage to your vehicle’s internal parts.
Transmission fluid that is dark brown should be flushed and changed to prevent any increase in temperature.
Very Dark to Black
Worst-case scenario: Transmission fluid may appear nearly black. It could indicate that it has already suffered damage. It could also smell strong and burning due to oxidation.
The black transmission fluid in your vehicle should be carefully checked for damage before replacing the filter.
Pink
Transmission fluid pink or light pink indicates water leakage from the oil more excellent line. It can cause complete failure of your transmission and destroy the seals.
You should notice a milky appearance to your transmission fluid, regardless of color. It is a sign of a leak in your antifreeze or water. It needs to be changed immediately to prevent any damage to your vehicle.
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How Often Should You Change Your Transmission Fluid – A Complete Guide
It is easy to change the transmission fluid. You can take several steps to check your transmission fluid and when it needs to be changed.
Step 1 Firstly, ensure that your transmission fluid level is correct. This information can be found in your vehicle’s manual or on the sticker located on the driver’s side jamb.
Step 2 – If the transmission fluid needs to be replaced, you’ll need to remove the hood from the car and inspect it. You can remove the cap from the top of your fluid reservoir.
Step 3 After removing the cap, use a dipstick to check your level and fill it as needed. It is essential to fill it in a manageable amount as this can prevent transmission leaks. Next, re-screw it back into place.
Step 4 If your dipstick is showing reddish or pinkish signs, it’s time to have your transmission flush. It would be best if you changed it every so often to ensure that your transmission fluid flows smoothly through your car’s system. In addition, you should check the fluid for solids. If there are any solids in the fluid, it is time to change them immediately.
Step 5 Occasionally, your car’s fluid may need to be changed more often than once yearly. It will depend on how often your car is exposed to extreme temperatures or if you are involved in high-stress activities such as towing heavy loads or towing. It also applies to other extreme activities.
Step 6. Transmission fluid should also be checked after significant repairs or when differential oil changes. They can leak and contaminate the transmission fluid. To ensure there are no leaks, it is essential to do this right after you have added them.
Step 7 – If your transmission is sliding, you will need to check it. Wearing gaskets or seals can cause fluid to leak, which could lead to contamination of other parts of your car. It could also indicate a problem in your transmission.
Step 8: Ensure you check and replace your transmission fluid at least once a year. Your car should run smoothly, especially if you drive on interstates or roads with steep inclines. If you don’t regularly change your transmission fluid, you could have significant problems.
Note: It is best to have your transmission inspected by professionals if you notice any problems.
What is the recommended change interval for automatic and manual Transmission Fluid?
Automatic Transmission Fluid
Each vehicle is unique, but the following information will help you check and change your automatic transmission fluid. Regular automatic transmission fluid (ATF) changes are one of the best ways to maintain your vehicle’s transmission. So why should you change your automatic transmission fluid every 60,000-70,000 miles?
Manual Transmission Fluid
It is essential to change the manual transmission fluid immediately. Any delay will cause more wear and tear.
Fluid changes will ensure your transmission shifts better, feel smoother and reduce heat buildup.
It is recommended that the Manual Transmission fluid be changed every 20,000-25,000 miles.
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FAQs
Does transmission fluid change color?
Transmission fluid’s color will change as it ages. It helps you to identify its health and determine whether it should be replaced. Transmission fluid will begin to darken as it ages due to contamination by dirt and other particles.
Can I Change My Transmission Fluid By Myself?
You should consider running your transmission if you are going on a long trip. However, it is better to drain your transmission fluid before you leave and then refill it when you get back.
What if I don’t change the transmission fluid?
Regularly checking the transmission fluid in your vehicle’s engine is an essential maintenance task. You run the risk that your transmission components will be damaged if you don’t check them regularly.
In addition, you must change your transmission gears and shafts regularly to prevent rust, dirt, corrosion, and overheating.
How often should transmission fluid need to be changed?
The fluid change intervals will vary depending on your vehicle and transmission. For example, manual transmissions should be changed every 30,000-60,000 miles, while automatics may need to be replaced every 60,000-100,000.
Is coolant allowed to reach the transmission?
The coolant will flow over the radiator if your engine cooling systems are in good condition.
What fluids are in a green car?
The antifreeze is generally green fluid and can leak from clamps, hoses, or other fittings.
Conclusion
Identifying the fluids that your vehicle requires can be challenging when they are different colors. However, dyed transmission fluid allows you to diagnose any faults or leaks in your vehicle quickly and gives you a helpful insight into its overall health.
Transmission fluid that is red or light brown is healthy for your vehicle. However, if the color starts to change or develops a burnt odour, it has overheated and oxidised.
It is essential to replace it as soon as possible, as poor lubrication can lead to increased friction, excessive wear, and damage to internal seals and other parts.