How do I know what transmission fluid to buy?
The easiest way to make sure you’re using the right type of ATF is to check the owner’s manual. It’ll tell you exactly which ATF the manufacturer recommended for your car. You may also find a recommendation on the dipstick. Either is a reasonable resource for determining the right type of fluid for your transmission.
Why do you need to check your transmission fluid?
Most vehicle owners know that in order to keep their ride roadworthy, they need to stay up-to-date on routine maintenance, such as oil changes and tire replacement. But you should also keep tabs on your automatic transmission—you know, that thing with the gears that you shift into drive, reverse, and park multiple times a day.
What mileage to change transmission fluid?
Most manufacturers suggest 30,000 to 60,000 miles as the point at which you should change the transmission fluid in a manual transmission. However, vehicles with transmissions that are under ‘high stress’ should change the transmission fluid every 15,000 miles.
Do you need oil for a manual transmission?
Yes, even a manual needs transmission fluid. The type of fluid can vary from car to car, however. Some manuals require conventional engine oil, and others function best with automatic transmission fluid. So make sure you’re putting in the fluid that’s specified for your car.
What should the color of transmission fluid be?
The condition of your transmission fluid—and to some extent, the transmission itself—is indicated by the color of the fluid. If your fluid is healthy, it should have a reddish-pink color; if it’s getting to the point of needing replacement, it will be brownish red.
Is it better to flush a transmission?
As a general rule, if you suspect that you haven’t maintained the transmission well in past, it’s better to just change the fluid and not bother with a flush . That’s because flushing the transmission increases the chance of some gunk getting stuck in the narrow oil channels.
Do I flush the transmission?
A transmission flush is not part of the regular routine of maintaining a vehicle. In fact, you should only flush the transmission when it becomes necessary. Flushing forces the fluid to flow in the opposite direction through the transmission.
What is trans fluid?
Transmission fluid is a car fluid used to lubricate and cool automatic and manual transmissions.