Transmission fluid is an essential fluid for your car. There are 4 kinds of transmission fluids namely automatic transmission fluid (ATF), manual transmission fluid (MTF), synthetic transmission fluid (STF), and CVT fluid.
Transmission fluid primarily acts as a lubricant. It prevents metal parts and gears inside the transmission box from breaking down. Transmission fluid also acts as a cooling agent and prevents the transmission from overheating. It helps maintain proper sealing within the transmission system to prevent leaks.
How to Change Your Car’s Transmission Fluid?
Follow these steps to change your car’s transmission fluid:
- Step one: warm up the transmission fluid.
- Step two: Open the gasket seal.
- Step three: Clean the gasket surfaces with solvent.
- Step four: Remove the old transmission filter and O-ring. The filter contains fluid, so keep the drain pan underneath.
- Step five: Drain the fluid.
- Step six: Install the new transmission filter.
- Step seven: Attach the new gasket to the pan.
- Step eight: Wipe the drain plug and put it back with a new washer and tighten to the correct torque.
- Step nine: Fill the transmission with fresh fluid.
- Step ten: Start the engine, apply the foot brake, and move the transmission selector through all the gears.
- Step eleven: check the level of the transmission fluid and adjust if needed.
FAQs
Q: Are transmission fluid changes necessary?
A: Yes, changing transmission fluid at proper time is necessary. Transmission can:
- Lubricate the transition.
- Prevents corrosion of gears.
- Prevents overheating.
- Ensures smoother acceleration, braking, and high-speed driving.
- Improves road safety.
Q: Are transmission fluid and engine oil the same?
A: Transmission oil and fluid are not the same things. Transmission fluid is a lubricant that smoothens gear transitions and engine oil lubricates the engine’s internal components.
Q: When to change transmission fluid?
A: We recommend changing transmission fluid every 50,000 kms or every two years.
Q: Where does transmission fluid go?
A: The transmission fluid goes in the transmission oil pan.
Q: Why does transmission fluid leak?
A: Transmission fluid leaks due to:
- The oil pan’s wear and tear.
- Punctured fluid line.
- Failing torque converter.
- Poor maintenance.
- Hauling extra weight.
Q: What is the cost of changing the transmission fluid and filter?
A: In Australia, the cost of changing a transmission fluid and filter can range from $150–$300.
Conclusion
Changing your car’s transmission fluid is an important part of maintaining your vehicle’s longevity. While some experienced car owners may choose to handle it themselves, it’s often best to rely on a professional Transmission Repair Service for a thorough and precise job. Professionals ensure the use of the correct fluid type, proper disposal of old fluid, and can address any potential issues during the process.
