Your transmission is made up of a lot of moving parts, and like any other mechanical system, it needs to be properly lubricated to function correctly. In relation, your transmission fluid breaks down over time due to a variety of factors. The main factor is heat. Every time your transmission shifts gears, it generates a small amount of heat. This is perfectly normal and happens regardless of how you drive. However, if you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic or tow heavy loads, your transmission will generate more heat and break down the fluid faster.
Other factors that can affect your transmission fluid include age, type of driving, and type of terrain. Transmission fluid can start to break down and become contaminated even if you don’t use your car frequently. Over time, the chemicals in the fluid can degrade, leaving behind deposits that can damage your transmission. In addition, if you do a lot of stop-and-go driving in city traffic, your transmission fluid will break down faster than if you mostly drive on the highway. Moreover, if you frequently drive in mountainous terrain, your transmission fluid will break down faster due to the increased stress on the system. Ignoring your transmission fluid change interval can result in decreased fuel economy, increased emissions, and eventually, costly transmission repairs.
If your transmission fluid is low, you may notice some of the following symptoms shifting problems, noises, and even leaking. For example, if your transmission fluid is low, it may not be able to properly lubricate the components of your transmission. This can cause shifting problems, such as rough shifting or delayed shifting. In addition, you may hear noises coming from the transmission area. These noises can be anything from a whining noise to a grinding noise. Finally, a leak in your transmission system can cause the fluid level to drop below the minimum level. If you notice any leaks, it’s important to have them fixed as soon as possible.
So, how often do you need to change your transmission fluid? This is a question that many car owners ask themselves, and it is an important one to consider. Depending on the make of your vehicle, as well as how often you drive and what type of terrain you typically travel on, the answer can vary.
Regularly changing your transmission fluid is the best way to keep it clean and ensure that it lasts as long as possible. In general, most manufacturers recommend changing your transmission fluid every 30,000 miles or so. However, if you do a lot of stop-and-go driving in city traffic, or if you frequently tow heavy loads or drive in mountainous terrain, you may need to change it more often.
Changing your transmission fluid on a regular basis is an important part of maintaining your vehicle. It helps to keep the components of your transmission cool and lubricated, which can extend the life of your car and help prevent expensive repairs down the road. If you need help changing your transmission fluid – or just want someone else to take care of it for you – contact us today! We can get the job done quickly and affordably so you can get back on the road in no time.