Transmission fluid is what helps to keep your car moving while in gear. The gears in your transmission are constantly meshing, which produces a lot of heat. Over time, the transmission fluid can break down and become less effective at doing its job. That's why it's essential to change your transmission fluid regularly. But how often should you do it?
How Often Should You Change Your Transmission Fluid?
The general rule of thumb is to change your transmission fluid every 30,000 miles or every two years, whichever comes first. However, this may vary depending on the make and model of your car as well as your driving habits. If you do a lot of stop-and-go driving or frequently tow heavy loads, you may need to change your transmission fluid more often.
Some carmakers have started to extend the recommended interval for changing transmission fluid. For example, Honda now recommends that you change your transmission fluid every 100,000 miles under "normal" driving conditions. However, even if your car's manufacturer recommends a longer interval between changes, it's still a good idea to check your transmission fluid level regularly and change it sooner if necessary.
Signs That You Need to Change Your Transmission Fluid
If you're unsure of when the last time your transmission fluid was changed, there are some signs you can look for that may indicate it's time for a change.
If your transmission fluid is low, that's an indication that it's time for a change. You can check the level of your transmission fluid by looking at the dipstick. The dipstick will have markings that indicate the acceptable level of fluid. If the level is low, add more transmission fluid until it reaches the "full" mark.
If your transmission fluid is dark or murky, that's another sign that it needs to be changed. The transmission fluid should be a bright red color. If it's dark or murky, the fluid is old and needs to be replaced.
If your transmission is slipping, that's yet another sign that you need to change your transmission fluid. When transmission fluid breaks down, it can cause the gears to slip. If you notice that your car is shifting gears abruptly or if it's taking longer than usual for your car to shift gears, it's a good idea to have your transmission fluid checked.
If you notice any of these signs, we invite you to bring your car to Willy's Transmission & Air Conditioning for transmission service. The technicians at our auto repair shop will be able to check the level and condition of your transmission fluid and change it if necessary.