Transmission Fluid Replacement
Your car's transmission fluid is such a crucial part of ensuring that your vehicle operates well, but it's not something most of us think about as frequently as oil changes and gas fill-ups.
This is mainly because your car can go as long as 160,000 kilometres before needing to change your transmission fluid. It's possible to own a car for years and not need to replace the transmission fluid. However, it still does need to be replaced at some point to avoid problems with the car's transmission system.
What is auto transmission fluid?
Transmission fluid or ATF (Auto Trans Fluid) is used in both manual and automatic transmission cars. ATF is usually made from a refined blend of base oil and additives that provide the proper lubrication for a variety of critical mechanical components within your car's transmission system. A properly lubricated transmission system prevents particle buildup and dryness that cause grinding and overheating.
Where is the transmission fluid in a car?
It is located near the oil dipstick in front-wheel drive vehicles and near the rear of the engine for rear-wheel-drive engines.
How to check your transmission fluid?
Checking your transmission fluid is easy. You may check the current level of your transmission fluid by using the transmission fluid dipstick. This dipstick is similar to the oil dipstick, but it measures your transmission fluid instead of measuring oil levels.
1. Remove the dipstick.
Use the dipstick by gently removing it to check how much fluid you have left. Don't turn the engine off and allow it to run with the transmission in neutral or park. Make sure your parking brake is up, and the engine is warm as well.
2. Examine the fluid.
Dip your index finger in the transmission fluid and rub it against the tip of your thumb. On the dipstick, the transmission fluid should be pinkish and virtually clear. If the fluid appears darker, scorched or contains particles, a mechanic needs to drain and replace it immediately.
3. Wipe the dipstick clean with a clean rag before reinserting and pulling it out.
If the fluid is clear but does not reach the "Full" line on the dipstick, use a funnel to pour the right amount down the tube to reach the maximum fill line. Remember, put in the right amount. Too much or too little transmission fluid can cause major problems down the road.
Use the dipstick by gently removing it to check how much fluid you have left. Don't turn the engine off and allow it to run with the transmission in neutral or park. Make sure your parking brake is up, and the engine is warm as well.
Dip your index finger in the transmission fluid and rub it against the tip of your thumb. On the dipstick, the transmission fluid should be pinkish and virtually clear. If the fluid appears darker, scorched or contains particles, a mechanic needs to drain and replace it immediately.
If the fluid is clear but does not reach the "Full" line on the dipstick, use a funnel to pour the right amount down the tube to reach the maximum fill line. Remember, put in the right amount. Too much or too little transmission fluid can cause major problems down the road.
Three signs you need to replace your transmission fluid
1. Change in colour
Watch out for the change of colour in your transmission fluid. It should be reddish. The darker brown it gets, the more likely you need to change the fluid immediately.
2. Loud and roaring sounds
If you hear a loud sound when you accelerate or go around corners, or a whining or buzzing sound in some cars, it might be time for a car transmission fluid change.
3. Difficulty shifting.
If your car is having trouble changing gears or your transmission starts to slip or slide, then it’s time to check your transmission fluid.
Watch out for the change of colour in your transmission fluid. It should be reddish. The darker brown it gets, the more likely you need to change the fluid immediately.
If you hear a loud sound when you accelerate or go around corners, or a whining or buzzing sound in some cars, it might be time for a car transmission fluid change.
If your car is having trouble changing gears or your transmission starts to slip or slide, then it’s time to check your transmission fluid.
Can I change my transmission fluid?
Changing your transmission fluid is a must but we don't recommend it be done DIY. The transmission system of any vehicle is sensitive and also expensive in terms of spare parts. It's important not to try changing the fluid if you don't know what you're doing.
Important Reminder
Before making any auto transmission fluid change, you should always consult with a certified and experienced transmission technician.
Automotive Transmission fluid replacement services near me
Need your Transmission fluid replaced now? Get a quote from one of our partner auto-repair centres to ensure your gears easily slide into place and that your car's transmission runs smoothly.
The Tyroola Advantage
We work with only the best professional mechanics to get your car roadworthy!
Book the best mechanics
Tyroola has over 500 partner auto care centres all over Australia. You'll only get the best.
Repair Now & Pay Later
With interest free payments so safety won't have to wait.
No hidden prices
No car repair bill shock! You'll know how much it will cost before any work is started.
