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Transmission Fluid Change: Recognizing the Red Flags

Dwight Smith in Ann Arbor, MI, explores the importance of transmission fluid, its role in your vehicle, and most importantly, how to recognize the red flags that indicate when it's time for a transmission fluid change.

Your vehicle's transmission system is a complex mechanical marvel that plays a crucial role in ensuring your car or truck runs smoothly. Contact Dwight Smith in Ann Arbor, MI, at (702) 561-3706 before your next transmission fluid change and learn how to keep it in shape using AMSOIL products.

The transmission fluid is one of the most critical components that keep your transmission system in good shape. This specialized fluid is responsible for lubricating the moving parts, providing hydraulic pressure, cooling the system, and even facilitating gear changes. However, like any other fluid in your vehicle, it can deteriorate over time, leading to a host of problems if not properly maintained.

Read on and learn the signs of a much-needed transmission fluid change.

The Role of Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid is a multi-tasker. It performs several critical functions that keep your transmission running smoothly and efficiently. Let's break down its primary roles:

Cooling

The transmission system generates heat due to friction; if this heat is not dissipated, it can lead to overheating and damage. The transmission fluid plays a key role in cooling this system's parts, ensuring it operates within safe temperature limits.

Hydraulic Pressure

Automatic transmissions rely on hydraulic pressure to engage and disengage gears. Thus, transmission fluid is essential for building and maintaining these pressure levels, allowing for smooth and precise gear shifts.

Cleaning and Protection

Transmission fluid helps keep the internal components of the transmission clean and free from contaminants. It also provides a protective layer to prevent corrosion and damage.

Efficiency

Maintaining the correct level and condition of transmission fluid is crucial for the overall efficiency of your vehicle. A well-lubricated and cooled transmission operates more smoothly, resulting in better fuel economy and improved performance.

Prevent costly transmission repairs and maintain your vehicle's performance with the help of AMSOIL products. Dial (702) 561-3706 and have the oil experts at Dwight Smith in Ann Arbor, MI, help you choose the right products for your transmission.

When to Change Transmission Fluid

Now that you understand the vital role of transmission fluid, let's delve into the critical indicators that suggest it's time for atransmission fluid change.

Discolored Fluid

Transmission fluid should be a bright red or pink color, although it can vary depending on the manufacturer. If you check the fluid and find that it's brown or has a burnt odor, this is a significant red flag. Discolored fluid indicates that the liquid has lost its lubricating and cooling properties and needs to be changed ASAP.

Slipping Gears

If you notice that your vehicle is slipping in and out of gears or struggling to stay in gear, it could be due to degraded transmission fluid. The deteriorating properties of the fluid can lead to erratic gear shifts, resulting in a lack of power and acceleration.

Rough Shifting

A healthy transmission should shift gears smoothly without any jarring or jerking movements. If you experience rough, delayed, or harsh shifts could be a sign of dirty or insufficient transmission fluid.

Unusual Noises

Listen for any unusual noises like clunking, whining, or grinding when you shift gears or drive. These noises can often be associated with insufficient lubrication due to degraded fluid.

Leaking Fluid

If you find red or pink fluid under your parked vehicle, this clearly indicates a transmission fluid leak. In such cases, not only should you address the leak, but you should also check the transmission fluid level and its condition.

Overheating

Overheating can cause transmission fluid to break down more quickly. If you frequently drive in extreme conditions, such as towing heavy loads or in hot weather, you should be especially vigilant about checking your transmission fluid and monitoring your vehicle's temperature gauge.

Check Engine Light

Modern vehicles are equipped with sensors that can detect issues with various systems, including the transmission. If your check engine light comes on and you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, it's wise to have your transmission checked by a professional.

Mileage and Maintenance Schedule

Even if you haven't experienced any of the above symptoms, it's a good practice to change your transmission fluid at regular intervals as your vehicle's manufacturer recommends. This preventive maintenance can extend the life of your transmission and prevent problems from developing.