March 26, 2021  |    1,170 Comments

Have you ever wondered how your transmission helps your car function? Well, your vehicle’s transmission is responsible for sending power to your wheels allowing your vehicle to accelerate and move. This makes the transmission a vital component of your vehicle, so it’s crucial that you keep up with the maintenance for it. One of the most frequently asked questions we get regarding transmission care is “How often should I be changing my transmission fluid?” Though there are many factors that come into play, the most common answer to this question is around 30,000 to 60,000 miles. However, this isn’t always the case. 

To learn all about transmission fluid and how to properly care for your vehicle, read more below or connect with Reno’s top auto repair shop, A1 Body Shop!

When To Change Your Transmission Fluid 

There are several factors that will affect the longevity of your transmission fluid including whether you have an automatic or manual transmission, your daily driving habits, and if you use your vehicle to tow or not. Manual transmissions typically require more frequent maintenance and should have the fluid changed more regularly. It’s recommended that you change the fluid in a manual transmission every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. However, with heavy use, such as towing often, your transmission fluid will need to be replaced about every 15,000 to 20,000 miles. 

Automatic transmissions typically require a fluid change every 30,000 to 100,000 miles depending on the type of driving you do (i.e. constant stopping and going) and how much driving you do. More heat is generated in an automatic transmission which causes the fluid to degrade and break down with use. This may result in the need to add fluid more often, but doesn’t necessarily mean the fluid needs to be replaced. 

In order to determine whether or not your transmission fluid needs to be changed, it’s essential that you regularly check the fluid. 

Checking Your Transmission Fluid 

To check your transmission fluid, first, begin by starting the engine. To accurately check the fluid’s level and color, the liquid must be tested while warm. So, park your vehicle on a flat, level surface and leave it idling. Next, pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, replace it slowly, and then pull it back out. Check to see how high the fluid comes up on the dipstick to determine its level – there are lines for “low” and “high” labeled on the dipstick to make this more clear. Then, take a clean, preferably white or light-colored rag, and wipe the dipstick to check its color. If your fluid is in good condition, it should have a reddish-pink color. And if it’s getting to the point of needing replacement, the color will turn brownish-red or have noticeable dirt and other contaminants.

Other indicators that your transmission fluid is in need of being replaced could be:

  • Burnt smell
  • Excessively thick consistency
  • Loss of viscosity 

The Importance of Replacing Your Fluid

In order for your transmission to function properly, it requires a certain type of fluid to keep the gears lubricated and prevent them from grinding. If the transmission fluid levels get too low the gears will begin to grind against one another and cause damage within the transmission and its other components. Likewise, contaminated transmission fluids can cause damage within the transmission that could possibly lead to transmission failure. 

When Should You Have Your Transmission Checked by a Professional?

Typically, if your transmission is having problems it’ll give you some warning signs that let you know it’s time to see a mechanic. Many of the clues your vehicle will give you can be easily detected using your senses including smell and hearing. Commonly, when there is an existing transmission concern, you’ll hear screeching, grinding, or clanking noises, see transmission fluid leaking from your vehicle, or will smell something burning. Some other warning signs include overheating, slipped gears, and there will be a delay when switching gears. 

If you notice any of these symptoms, be sure to connect with a Reno auto repair shop right away. 

Take Your Car into an Auto Repair Shop

If you notice your transmission is having issues or the fluid needs to be changed, connect with the experts at A1 Auto Repair today! We can assess the underlying issue of your transmission and perform routine maintenance to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly. Connect with us today to learn more about our quality auto body repair services and set up an appointment today!

Contact A1 Body Shop

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