Caring for your car starts with the basics. You can take control of your vehicle’s maintenance by understanding more about it day by day. Our transmission fluid 101 guide goes over the role, types, and changing intervals of this important component so you’ll know what to do and when.
1. What Is Transmission Fluid?
Transmission fluid keeps your car running efficiently. The primary purpose is to lubricate the moving parts in the transmission. Some of these essential components include the torque converter, planetary gearset, hydraulic pump, and brakes. These parts grind against each other and cause terrible damage without proper lubrication.
The next characteristic is to cool down the transmission while the vehicle runs. The friction created by the moving parts generates heat. As the fluid absorbs the heat, the transmission sustains the proper temperature for operation.
Lastly, transmission fluid assists in transmitting power from the engine to the wheels, providing the hydraulic pressure needed to engage and shift gears smoothly. Without it, you would have a hard time getting your car into gear or driving it at all.
2. What Are the Types of Transmission Fluid?
Mechanics choose the type of fluid they need based on your vehicle’s transmission. While most daily drivers use automatic cars, here’s a rundown of the top three formulations of transmission fluid.
Automatic Transmission Fluid
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) improves gear shifts and overall performance. It lubricates and cools the transmission components while controlling the transmission’s hydraulic functions.
ATF is available in a variety of formulations. Automotive manufacturers meticulously tailor each to meet the requirements of different transmission systems.
Manual Transmission Fluid
Very few adults drive a manual car anymore. Nevertheless, manual transmission fluid (MTF) is necessary for standard transmissions that demand the user to manually change gears.
The fluid focuses on providing the right friction levels for smooth gear shifts. It establishes a more responsive performance and reduces wear and tear on the transmission components.
Continuously Variable Transmission Fluid
Continuously variable transmission (CVT) is a type of automatic transmission that changes through an infinite number of effective gear ratios. Unlike traditional transmissions, CVTs use a system of pulleys and a flexible belt to provide a smooth and efficient driving experience. CVT fluid can handle higher pressures for efficient lubrication.
3. How Often Does a Mechanic Change the Transmission Fluid?
Transmission fluid maintenance is one of the keys to preventing an overheating transmission. Without routine changes, your vehicle is in serious danger. Low fluid increases the risk of overheating, while contaminated fluid causes delayed or premature shifting.
Take your vehicle in for a transmission fluid change every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. This routine maintenance prevents debris buildup throughout the system, ensures the proper transmission temperature, and improves your vehicle’s reliability.
Taking care of your vehicle is daunting at the start, but you’ll get the hang of it. Reading more transmission fluid 101 guides that detail the role, types, and changing intervals of this important component is a good starting point.
Make a note on a calendar at the mileage point when you last got a transmission fluid change and the type of fluid your vehicle needs. Then, schedule an appointment with your mechanic to keep your car operating smoothly and safely.
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