Most people know they need to change their car’s oil regularly but are less familiar with the transmission fluid. Whether you have an automatic or manual vehicle, the transmission is an essential component—and one of the most expensive to replace or rebuild. The transmission works by directing power to the wheels and controlling the vehicle’s speed. If it doesn’t operate properly, your vehicle can slip or grind between gears, shake, or leak transmission fluid. You might also notice a burning smell beneath the hood or have trouble moving the gear shifter.

Why Is Transmission Service Important?

Transmission fluid helps keep the car’s internal mechanisms lubricated, which prevents friction and overheating. It also serves as hydraulic fluid, which affects how your car shifts between gears. Over time, the fluid will accumulate debris that can wear the clutch, gear, band, and other components in the transmission, which is why it needs to be replaced periodically.

How Often Should You Change the Transmission Fluid?

Most manufacturers recommend transmission service anywhere from every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. The vehicle model and your driving habits affect how often the fluid needs to be replaced or flushed. Stop-and-go city traffic requires more shifting between gears, so this degrades the quality of your transmission fluid faster than driving on the highway. Traveling in high heat can also mean you’ll need to replace the fluid more frequently. 

If you’re not sure how often you need to replace your transmission fluid, check your vehicle manufacturer’s guidelines. You will also want to check the type of transmission fluid you use, as some are designed to last longer than others.

If you need transmission service in St. Louis County, MO, turn to the experienced mechanics at Mullanphy Tire & Automotive. They offer everything from transmission fluid changes to tire rotations and have been in business for over 28 years. To learn more about the shop, visit the website or call (314) 921-4961 today to schedule an appointment in Florissant.