Do you know how many fluids it takes to operate your vehicle properly? Obviously, you need oil and gas. But there are many other important fluids that make it possible to drive your car. You need radiator fluid (antifreeze/coolant), brake fluid, steering fluid, and several others. One of the most important fluids that often gets overlooked is your transmission fluid.
Your transmission fluid needs to be changed, like every other fluid in your vehicle. But how often you need to change it varies on several factors. Many manufacturers recommend flushing your transmission fluid at 100,000 miles. Some companies, like Ford for example, recommends you flush your transmission at 150,000 on some of its vehicles.
However, not everyone agrees with those numbers. Some mechanics think you should flush your transmission every 50,000 miles. And manual transmissions usually follow a different maintenance schedule. So sticking to the owners manual is the best plan for manual transmissions.
Signs You Need a Transmission Fluid Flush
So, how often you flush your transmission fluid is open to debate. But getting this service done more often certainly wont hurt your vehicle. It might help your transmission last longer. In any case, here are some signs to look for that your transmission fluid needs to be changed.
First off, if you do a lot of stop-and-start driving it will most likely wear down your fluid faster. That high-stress driving is hard on your transmission fluid so you should check it more often. And heres what to look for. As transmission fluid gets older it tends to get darker in color. Typically its a reddish color, so if you notice it has become dark red, then it likely needs to be changed.
Another sign to watch out for is a burnt smell. When transmission fluid gets old it sometimes can have a burnt smell, which means it probably needs to be flushed. If you notice any debris or particles in your fluid thats another sign its time for a flush.
Check Before You Flush
So should you always have this service done if you notice any of these signs? Not necessarily. Some auto repair shops, especially dealers, will often push this service on you. However, you should look at your owners manual first to check what the manufacturer recommends and compare that to your current mileage. You might not need the service for several thousand more miles.
Transmission Fluid Flush Done Right
When you do decide to flush your transmission make sure you do it right. Some shops flush simply by adding new fluid to flush out the old. Other shops drain out the old fluid before adding the new fluid. Both ways are ok, but which method you choose might depend on your vehicle make. Some manufacturers recommend one method over the other. Honda, for example, says you should completely drain before adding the new fluid. If youre not sure, check your owners manual to see what they recommend before agreeing to this service.
Transmission Fluid Flush in Vancouver WA
Some people think they can put off changing their transmission fluid. Some people dont think they need to change it at all. But the truth is, just like all the rest of the fluids in your vehicle, transmission fluid needs to be changed, too. The good news is you dont have to do this on your own. Just bring your vehicle into Hoesly Eco Automotive for a transmission fluid flush. You can trust us for all your auto repair needs in Vancouver WA. So give us a call at 360-695-5871 or click here to set up an appointment online.
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