How much does it cost to get transmission fluid check?
The cost to have your fluid changed by a dealer, service center or independent mechanic ranges from $80 to $250. The average cost is around $100 for both automatic and manual transmissions.
How to check and fill your transmission fluid?
Some manufacturers do not have a normal dipstick for checking and filling. The below steps are for the most common transmission check and fill procedures. Start your car. In order to get an accurate transmission fluid reading, you will need to check the level while your transmission is running and the fluid is warm.
Why is transmission fluid important in a car?
Another important part of a transmission is the transmission fluid. Transmission fluid is used in automatic transmission cars as a lubricant that keeps the transmission from overheating and helps power the transmission by creating pressure and torque. Transmission fluid can become dirty, contaminated and worn out.
Is it normal for transmission fluid to change color?
The transmission will not work correctly and ultimately overheat and break down if the fluid is not maintained properly. Transmission fluids vary widely in color. Even new fluids can be vastly different – and the darkening of the transmission fluid over time is not abnormal.
How often should you change your transmission fluid?
Also look for instructions on how frequently to change your transmission fluid. While you can add fluid when it gets low, many car manufacturers recommend a transmission fluid change every 30,000 to 100,000 miles (48,000 to 161,000 km), depending on your car.
What should I look for in a transmission fluid?
Transmission fluids vary widely in color. Even new fluids can be vastly different – and darkening of the transmission fluid over time is not abnormal. Check the transmission fluid regularly. Transmission fluid color is a good indicator of wear and tear.
What happens when you overfill a transmission fluid?
First, DIYers were often overfilling their transmissions because they checked the fluid when it was cold, found it low and added more fluid. Once the fluid heated up, it was overfilled. When you overfill a transmission, the gears whip air into the fluid, causing it to foam.
Most automotive service centers check your transmission fluid level with every oil change. You should flush and fill your transmission with fresh transmission fluid every 30,000-60,000 miles for a manual or CVT, and every 60,000-100,000 miles for an automatic.
What should I do if I spill transmission fluid?
CAUTION: DO NOT OVERFILL OR SPILL AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID ON HOT ENGINE PARTS! Reinsert automatic transmission fluid dipstick fully. You’re done!