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Here’s How To Change Transmission Fluid – DIY Guide

change transmission fluid

The transmission fluid lubricates the inside parts of the transmission, preventing heat buildup and metal-on-metal wear and tear. The majority of transmission fluids are intended to last up to one million miles. However, it is contingent upon the driver, the circumstance, and how long it could endure. You might need to change the transmission fluid many times while driving. There are certainly significant and obvious symptoms that point to a transmission fluid issue.

For more information on the issues and how to replace the transmission fluid, read on.

When to Change Transmission Fluid?

Your car gives you signs that there is some problem with the transmission fluid. It’s important you keep a regular check on them to maintain the health of your transmission. Here are a few signs that say you need to check your transmission fluid.

  •  If you see any puddles under your vehicle. They are not always due to transmission fluid, but most of the time it is. Check and diagnose the leak immediately.
  • A weird roaring sound when you accelerate your vehicle. This may indicate low fluid.
  • If you are facing any difficulty in shifting gears or you feel there is transmission slippage, get your transmission checked immediately.
  • A mild burning smell coming from your vehicle can also indicate problems with your transmission fluid.
  • If your transmission temperature is too high, it may indicate by showing a warning sign on your dashboard. This usually happens with new vehicles.

If you find any of the above symptoms then your transmission is failing. It is high time to replace your transmission. You can check the extensive stock of transmission and replacement parts at the Oem Used Car Part store.

Why Is Transmission Fluid Necessary

The performance and sustained functioning of the transmission system of your car depend on transmission fluid. It lubricates the moving parts of your car and keeps it running smoothly. The following are some other crucial tasks your vehicle’s gearbox does:

  • Manages and maintains the pressure of the fluid.
  • Cold down your transmission system.
  • Prevents it from oxidizing.
  • Conditions the gasket.
  • Secures the system from rust.

How To Change Transmission Fluid

For people doing it for the very first time, it’s important you keep patience and follow the steps for transmission fluid change slowly and steadily. To change the fluid, you will require a transmission filter kit.

how to change transmission fluid

Equipment you need:

  • Safety glasses.
  • Mechanic gloves.
  • Socket set.
  • Drain pan.
  • Funnel.
  • Transmission Fluid.
  • Transmission gasket.

Let’s begin with the fluid change Process:

  • Start by lifting your car.
  • Open the hood, locate and remove the transmission fluid cap.
  • Then look for the transmission fluid pan.
  • Further, adjust the drain pan below the transmission fluid pan.
  • With the help of a wrench and socket, remove the bolts from the transmission pan.
  • Wait and let the fluid drain out properly.
  • Install the new pan gasket.
  • Using the wrench and socket, put the bolts back again. Make sure to fix it properly.
  • Pour the appropriate amount of transmission fluid using a funnel.
  • Remove the funnel and put the transmission cap on again.

How Often Should You Change Transmission Fluid

Although replacing your transmission fluid is necessary, the best interval depends on the type of transmission you have. Most manufacturers advise replacing the fluid between 30,000 and 60,000 miles if you drive manually. That range may often be increased to 60,000 to 100,000 miles if you have an automatic vehicle.

It is safe to change your fluid early. Heavy-duty drivers who operate their manual transmission vehicles may wish to change the fluid every 15,000 miles. Similarly, you might need to replace the fluid in your automatic transmission every 30,000 miles in some cases.

The best course of action to determine the specific interval for your vehicle is to check your owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic.

Also Check, if you have Honda models like Honda Civic Transmission Fluid Changing Period

What is The Cost of Change Transmission Fluid

The cost for transmission fluid change is dependent on whether you own an automatic or manual transmission vehicle or a CVT (continually variable transmission). They are the deciding factors for the cost of changing the fluid.

The cost varies according to different factors, as we mentioned above, but usually, the cost to change the transmission fluid ranges between $150- $200. However, for luxury vehicles, the cost may go up from $400 to $600.

FAQs

Is a transmission fluid change really necessary?

Yes is the clear-cut response. However, before this needs to be done, service intervals for new cars might be over 100,000 miles.

What are the signs that your transmission fluid needs to be changed?

Signs That Your Transmission Needs to be Replaced
●      Your vehicle has fluid puddles below it.
●      When you speed or turn a bend, you hear rumbling sounds.
●      Shifting is challenging.
●      When navigating turns, the engine revs.
●      a faint burning odor.
●      Warning light.

What happens if you never change transmission fluid?

When you replace the fluid in a car, particles and dirt are flushed away. These will continue to circulate in the transmission if you never empty the fluid. They may not harm the transmission, but when the miles add up, they actually help the transmission shift correctly.

Can I just add transmission fluid?

You may add additional by placing a funnel inside the tube that the dipstick was removed from and squirting some ATF within the pipe. Up until the level is exactly between the two lines, check the level after each addition.

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