Transmission fluid helps lubricate and cool moving parts within your car’s transmission. It’s important to practice transmission fluid maintenance to make sure you always have enough and that it’s good quality. This will ensure the safe performance of your vehicle’s transmission and keep your car running well for years. 

When Do You Change Your Transmission Fluid?

Your car does not have a designated light or sound to indicate when your transmission fluid needs changing, so it’s important to keep track of how many miles you drive in between inspections. This number will vary based on the make, model, and transmission type in your car. Speak to a specialist next time you take your car in for transmission fluid maintenance for an accurate mileage estimation.  It can range from 15,000 to 100,000 miles. 

What Happens if You Don’t Change Your Transmission Fluid?

If your fluid hasn’t been changed, it could shorten the life of your transmission. The liquid is circulated through the transmission via metal tubes when the car is turned on. It lubricates moving parts like valves and clutches. Over time, these metal parts naturally wear down, putting small metal shavings into the fluid. The debris can gradually cause damage to the interior surfaces of the transmission, eventually leading to clogs.

Regular flushes prevent a buildup of material and help the system run efficiently. It’s important to take your vehicle to a professional if you suspect your transmission fluid has sat for too long or been used passed its recommended mile range. 

Can You Check Transmission Fluid Between Maintenance Service?

Yes, check the level of your transmission fluid regularly to ensure it’s topped off and there is adequate lubrication for the machine’s components. Automatic cars usually have a dipstick that will give you the reading, while manual transmissions may need to have the car raised to reach the nozzle from underneath the vehicle. For automatic vehicles, put the car into neutral or park and let your engine run.

The transmission dipstick can usually be found under the hood near the oil dipstick. Pull it out, wipe it with a clean rag, and reinsert for an accurate reading. The stick will have a line near the bottom that lets you know the lowest recommended fill line. Ask your auto repair specialist for a recommended brand of fluid you can add between maintenance services.

When it’s time to schedule your transmission fluid maintenance, reach out to the helpful professionals at Mr. Transmission in Cincinnati, OH. With over 15 years in business, they specialize in transmission and auto repair services for a variety of cars, foreign and domestic. Visit their website for offers and coupons you can utilize during your next service. Call (513) 769-3111 to speak with a technician today.