Many drivers know that it’s the responsible thing to do to get the oil changed in the car, but not everyone knows that the transmission also has a fluid that needs to be changed and managed. That fluid is hugely vital to the car’s ability to function and keep you safe and on the road. Getting a regular transmission service is the best way of making sure everything is in tip-top shape.
What Does Your Transmission Do?
The transmission is the powerhouse of your car, literally. This system makes sure that the correct amount of power is being transferred to the wheels to maintain your car’s speed. Automatic cars don’t need input from the driver, whereas vehicles with manual transmissions need the driver to shift gears as they move up and down in speed.
The system is similar to changing gears on a bicycle, just happening on a larger scale and with a few more moving parts.
What Does Transmission Fluid Do?
The fluid keeps all of the moving parts inside the transmission lubricated so that they’re not damaged and create hydraulic pressure and keep the parts cool. This multi-function fluid should be a high priority for drivers, no matter the age of your vehicle.
Drivers can check the level and color of their transmission fluid themselves in some car models. It simply requires pulling the transmission dipstick (not to be confused with the oil dipstick) and seeing the levels of transmission fluid and the general health of the oil by examining its color. Brown or rusty colored transmission fluid signals that it might be time to head to the shop.
What If I Can’t Find It?
Don’t worry! Some cars have sealed engine compartments where there isn’t a dipstick for a driver to pull out. In that case, a mechanic will need to check the transmission fluid through an access point housed within the transmission, and they’ll likely perform these checks while your car is in the shop for other maintenance and let you know its status.
What’s Included in a Typical Transmission Service?
About every 25,000 to 30,000 miles, the transmission fluid needs to be drained from the engine into a transmission pan, which is then removed and the fluid discarded. The mechanic can check for any damage to the transmission parts for regular wear and tear or acute damage to components.
If your car has a transmission filter, the mechanic can access the filter and clean or replace it. After the old fluid has been removed, the mechanic will select the correct fluid type and fill the fluid back up to appropriate levels to ensure that your engine is protected. The owner’s manual for your car will tell you and the mechanic what type of transmission fluid your auto manufacturer has determined is the best quality for your vehicle.
Can You Do It Yourself?
Generally, it’s not advised to attempt a transmission fluid change on your own unless you are a licensed mechanic. In some cases, a DIY transmission fluid change could void the warranty, and you risk damaging your engine by adding the incorrect type of fluid, as well as adding too much or too little fluid.
Drivers in the Frederick, Maryland area should bring their car to DARCARS Used Car & Service Center of Frederick to ensure that their vehicles are adequately taken care of and serviced appropriately.
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