When to Change My Transmission Fluids
Be aware of the Signs of Low Transmission Fluid
M1 Auto Repair in West Jordan, UT, has a question for automotive enthusiasts: what year was transmission fluid developed, what was its name at that time, and for what automobile? (Hint: the answer is at the bottom.)
Your vehicle’s transmission must spin at an optimal rate of speed while simultaneously providing the wheels with the correct amount of power to move. That’s what a transmission does, and transmission fluid lubricates all the components within the transmission—the absolute genius of transmission fluid.
Transmission fluid maintains fluid pressure, cools the transmission system, prevents oxidation, conditions the gasket, and prevents system rust. Automatic transmission fluid can help with torque converter operation, valve body operation, clutch friction operations, and brake band friction. Transmission fluid comes in various colors including red, blue, green, purple, and amber.
Today, every vehicle owner must also compare synthetic versus traditional lubrication. Some research shows synthetic fluid breaks down slower and doesn’t oxidize or thin out at hotter temperatures. If you drive in a hot climate, this is something to consider.
Several variables influence when you need to change your transmission fluids, and they come in the form of warning signs. Warning lights can come on to alert you, or your transmission may start overheating. Gears slip, and suddenly the engine is revving higher than average. Also, look for shifting problems, unusual smells, your vehicle moving slowly, and roaring sounds during acceleration or when going into a corner. These are all signs that your transmission fluid may be low.
Changing your transmission fluid is because transmission fluids break down over time. First, take a look at your manufacturer’s manual. This usually advises changing the fluids every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Manufacturers’ put specific mileage in place for a reason, and M1 Auto Repair recommends following these guidelines.
Our transmission system is part of the life of our cars, along with the drivetrain. Without a drivetrain, the car would never move forward. With a damaged gearbox, the vehicle could never get up and running. We’d be stuck in second gear, and our week, day, or possibly year would be filled with difficulty shifting, grinding noises, and expensive repair costs. Your transmission needs to be there for you, and the most logical way to keep your transmission running is to visit M1 Auto Repair.
When your transmission feels out of whack, people from all parts of Utah come to M1 Auto Repair. We're experts in torque converters, hydraulic pumps, and planetary gears, including sun gears, planet gears, ring gears, clutches, and brakes. M1 Auto Repair has performed these kinds of repairs on every transmission scenario, which gives us an edge over the competition. So, give us a ring at 801-878-9455 or visit us at 7586 S Redwood Road West Jordan, UT 84084.
(Answer The year was 1940, and General Motors introduced the world to Dexron, the first transmission fluid developed for the Hydra-Matic 4-Speed.)