Share:

 

Transmission fluid maintenance is essential for protecting your transmission system, which is one of the most expensive parts on your vehicle to replace. This vibrant red liquid lubricates moving parts, aides with gear shifts, and assists in keeping the transmission cool. Over time, heat causes the fluid to deteriorate, making it less effective and more of a hindrance. When this happens, you’ll need to either change or flush the fluid to protect your transmission. 

How Is a Transmission Change Different From a Flush?

1. Doesn’t Remove All Contaminants

During a transmission fluid change, the transmission pan is removed to allow the liquid in the area to drain out. New fluid is then added, and the transmission filter is replaced.

This transmission fluid maintenance removes approximately half the fluid in the system but is unable to clear out any that still resides in the lines and torque converter. This means while the fluid will be cleaner and help the transmission run smoother, some contaminants will still remain. 

A flush, however, pumps out all the old, dirty fluid before replacing it with completely new fluid. This provides maximum cooling, more consistent shift, and protection against wear. 

2. Performed More Often

transmission fluid maintenanceMost mechanics recommend changing your vehicle’s transmission fluid every 30,000 miles or every two years. This ensures you stay on top of your fluid’s condition and prevents the likelihood of sludge in the system that could do severe damage to the transmission. 

While a flush should be performed every 45,000 to 60,000 miles or every three years, this transmission fluid maintenance might be needed more or less often depending on your vehicle, the way you drive, and where you drive. If you notice your transmission making grinding noises, slipping gears, or jumping when you attempt to accelerate, the fluid has probably grown too dirty and needs to be completely flushed. 

3. Less Expensive & Easier to Perform

In general, a transmission fluid change is less expensive to have done because it requires much less maintenance. Also, as the system doesn’t have to be completely filled, there is less fluid to purchase. 

Even so, if your inspection reveals nearly black or sludgy fluid, it’s better to schedule a flush. Leaving these contaminants in your transmission system will only cause the new liquid to grow dirty faster, meaning the transmission is at a higher risk of overheating. 


When you need transmission fluid maintenance, head to Mr. Transmission in Cincinnati, OH. This independently owned and operated franchise specializes in transmission maintenance, repairs, and rebuilds. Their professional mechanics provide free performance checks to help diagnose any problems with your vehicle’s transmission. Call them today at (513) 769-3111 to schedule an inspection, and visit their website to learn more about their transmission services.

tracking