By Tom Morr Show Vehicles' vital fluids normally perform two important functions: lubricating and cleaning. As the fluid circulates through the parts, it gathers the dirt and metal shavings that can accumulate over time. If you're lucky, this debris will settle on the bottom of the pan or housing and not circulate through the system. That’s why some auto shops use machines that perform a transmission fluid flush, ensuring that more of this debris is removed before any new transmission fluid is poured into the vehicle. Nothing prolongs vehicle life more than regular fluid changes. In automatic transmissions/transaxles, the recommended service interval is about every 30,000 miles or 30 months. (Check your owner's manual or service manual for your car's specifics.) The automatic transmission fluid (ATF) should be changed sooner if its dipstick reveals dark or burnt-smelling fluid. DIY transmission fluid and filter changes Even those of us who change our own oil often cringe at the prospect of draining ATF. Because many transmission pans don't have drain plugs, changing the fluid can be a messy proposition –the entire pan must be removed. But even on vehicles that do have drain plugs, the pan still must be removed to change the filter. Changing transmission fluid is one of those messy jobs that someone has to do. Doing the deed yourself will save money, possibly time and fresh ATF can make your gearbox perform young beyond its years. It’s also relatively easy to determine when your ATF may be low. Consider an automatic transmission service if you detect the following signs of low transmission fluid:
How to change automatic transmission fluid: Step-by-step instructions If you can garner some initial patience, learning how to change automatic transmission fluid will only benefit you in the long run. More importantly, you’ll need an automatic transmission filter kit; they normally contain a gasket for the pan in addition to the new transmission filter and its O-ring. Along with some basic shop tools, you’re ready to get started.
Always practice good safety behaviors when working on motor vehicles. To help prevent injuries, use appropriate personal protective equipment, which may include safety gloves, goggles, helmets and shoes. How do I know if I need to change my transmission filter?Signs Your Transmission Fluid Filter is Clogged (And What To Do About It). An Unexplained Rattle. Sometimes, you know exactly what's making your vehicle rattle. ... . Whirs or Whines. ... . Leaking. ... . Burning Smell. ... . Problems Changing Gears. ... . A Noisy Neutral.. Does transmission fluid change include filter?Transmission Fluid Change - Replaces 50%-60% of your transmission fluid. Your transmission pan is drained without special equipment, inspected, and cleaned. The transmission filter is replaced and new fluid is added, leaving a mixture of old and new fluid.
Is it better to flush a transmission or change filter?Flushing your transmission fluid is a better, more thorough alternative to a basic change, which, of course, means it will also cost you more. However, just because it is the better option, doesn't mean it is what you need to do every time.
Can I just add new transmission fluid?Now you're finally ready to add new transmission fluid. Most vehicles allow you to do this through the dipstick tube, using a longneck funnel. Pour a little less than the amount of automatic transmission fluid (ATF) you collected in the milk jugs. Next, start the engine and let it run idle for at least one minute.
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