Your vehicle’s transmission is a vital component that ensures the smooth operation of your car. It’s responsible for shifting gears and transferring power from the engine to the wheels. To keep your transmission running efficiently and prolong its lifespan, regular maintenance is crucial, and that includes changing the fluid.
Why Does Transmission Fluid Need Changing?
Transmission fluid serves several essential purposes, including lubricating moving parts, cooling the transmission, and ensuring smooth gear shifts. Over time, however, this fluid can become contaminated with debris, sludge, and wear particles, which can lead to reduced performance and potential damage to the transmission.
How Often Should You Change Transmission Fluid?
The frequency at which you should change your fluid depends on several factors:
Manufacturer’s Recommendations: It is good to consult your vehicle owner’s manual for guidelines, but PLEASE NOTE: It is not the end all, be all. A case in point is that some owner manuals may state that the fluid is a “lifetime” fluid, but we strongly disagree.
Driving Conditions: If you regularly engage in heavy towing, drive in stop-and-go traffic, or frequently take your vehicle off-road, you may need more frequent fluid changes. These conditions put additional stress on the transmission and may require shorter intervals between changes.
Fluid Condition: Checking the fluid’s color and smell can provide insights into its condition. Healthy transmission fluid is typically reddish and has a sweet, almost fruity smell. If it appears brown or has a burnt odor, it’s time for a change, regardless of the mileage.
Mileage: As a general guideline, many experts recommend changing transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. However, this is a rough estimate, and your vehicle’s specific needs should take precedence.
Keep it Running Smooth
Regularly changing your fluid is a crucial aspect of vehicle maintenance that can help extend the life of your transmission and keep your vehicle running smoothly. To determine the ideal interval for your car, always consult your owner’s manual and consider your driving habits and the fluid’s condition. When in doubt, it’s better to err on the side of caution and change the fluid sooner rather than later. Proper maintenance today can prevent costly transmission repairs down the road.
The team at Phoenix Automotive is prepared to meet all your maintenance needs.
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