Transmission Fluid Is What Keeps Your Gears Moving Smooth
automatic transmission fluid, and specifically, when and if, it needs replacing. Depending on your vehicle’s make, and manufacturer, this information might not be available on your owner’s manual.
Your vehicle has many fluids that run through it, and out of all, the most important to keep watch is the transmission fluid. Even though there has been a significant advancement in modern transmission systems, and “fill-forever fluids” used on most modern automobiles, experts still advise, transmission fluid should be changed periodically. The manufacturer’s maintenance schedule in most road-going vehicles for the automatic transmission is 100,000. Some manufacturer’s such as Ford, have theirs set at 150,000 miles. Mechanics and other automobile experts argue that is too long, and car owners need to schedule fresh fluid after 50,000 miles.
The case is different with manual transmission vehicles. They require the conventional gear oil, and due to this, they have a different maintenance schedule.
If you are unsure of your transmission service interval, contact your local AAMCO Boise & Nampa repair shop for a routine checkup.
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How Will I Know When I Need a Transmission Service?
Checking your transmission fluid level isn’t the easiest of tasks, especially for a new car owner. It’s therefore important to have a professional mechanic inspect it for you. Some manufacturers install a reservoir or dipstick in the engine bay, therefore, make sure you check under your hood first.
While your fluid levels might look fine, it’s difficult to know if there are any contaminants such as small pieces of metal by just looking at it. If your vehicle is in for regular maintenance, you could ask your mechanic to check your transmission fluid for contaminants.
What’s the Worst That Could Happen If I Don’t Perform Transmission Service?
It’s important to understand the role of fluid in your transmission. Your transmission fluid helps keep your vehicle lubricated, regardless of whether its manual or automatic. After extensive use, the interior components in your transmission will wear down contaminating your fluid.
If you fail to perform a transmission fluid service, your system will lubricate your transmission with contaminants such as metal chippings. This action will significantly affect the lifespan of your transmission, and in the event, it fails, it will be irreparable. Getting rid of impure fluid is important, especially if its called for in the service manual. The aftermath of failing is a considerable dent in your finances.
How Often Do I Need to Change My Transmission Fluid?
An important tip is to find out from your manufacturer your vehicle’s recommended transmission fluid service intervals. It’s also important to note that transmission fluid change intervals vary from one vehicle to the next. For most cars and trucks, its 30,000 miles to more than 100,000 miles.
Some car manufacturers, and specifically in modern automobiles, have fluid that is meant to last a lifetime and have their automatic transmission systems shut completely. The more common CVTs (Continuously Variable Transmissions) on the other hand, need fluid changes and or regular inspection.
Remember, your transmission fluid, unlike engine oil, should not burn off. A red puddle under your vehicle is a sure sign of a transmission leak. A rule of thumb is to have your transmission fluid checked every time you perform your normal maintenance service. When in doubt contact your local mechanic and have your vehicle checked out.
What Options Do I Have For Transmission Fluid Services?
If you have never bothered to have your transmission fluid checked, visit your nearest local AAMCO Boise & Nampa service shop for an inspection service. Regardless of what it costs to perform a transmission service and maintenance, getting your fluid replaced will cost you considerably less compared to replacing your transmission.
An automatic transmission repair service involves replacing your transmission pan gasket, fluid, and filter. Depending on your car make, it might not have a serviceable transmission filter. Also, some transmission systems will not need maintenance for life.
Remember, failing to maintain your transmission properly could leave you stranded with a huge repair bill to service.
AAMCO Boise & Nampa is a renown car repair service in Idaho that specializes in Transmission Service and Repair, Battery Repair and Maintenance, Auto Repair and Service, Exhaust Systems, Fleet Service, Belts and Hoses, Auto Tune-up Service, Clutch Repairs, Factory Recommended Maintenance and many more.
Did your car stall due to transmission issues? Contact an AAMCO location near you for a free quote. Our technicians will be more than happy to help you solve your transmission problem.
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read moreOur Boise Auto Repair & Transmission Repair Locations
AAMCO Boise - West State St
3401 W. State St.
Boise, ID 83703
Hours: Mon-Fri, 7:30am - 5:00pm
AAMCO Boise - Fairview Ave
8486 Fairview Ave.
Boise, ID 83704Hours: Mon-Fri, 8:00am - 5:00pm
AAMCO Nampa
705 12th Avenue Rd.
Nampa, ID 83686Hours: Mon-Fri, 8:00am - 5:00pm
