How does metal get in a transmission?
The metal in your transmission is from your transmission. Metal parts can wear from age or abuse. Damaged bushings and bearings begin to grind against rotating parts and leave metal particles in the oil pan.
Is transmission fluid corrosive to metal?
Fluid leaks may seem like minor issues, but they can cause major problems. Since transmission fluid is corrosive, small leaks can also lead to major damage to nearby parts or other components.
What do metal shavings in transmission fluid look like?
The entire pan and especially the built-in magnet might be coated in a metallic powder that results from typical wear in your transmission. If this powder is the only sign of metal shavings you find in the transmission pan, don’t worry! If it’s coated in fine, “fuzzy” metallic fragments, that’s normal.
Why are there metal shavings in the transmission?
Normal use and wear of the transmission produces metal shavings in the fluid. Metal shavings are little warning signs that need to be addressed and related to the care and maintenance of the transmission. Choosing a bad grade fluid, or Over revving up the engine where the fluid does not have enough time to coat/lubricate the moving parts.
What to do if you find metal shavings in oil?
With upgrade mods or without, if you find metal shavings in your oil, either take it to a qualified transmission technician, or if you’re competent enough, check all the transmission components. Transmissions can handle a lot of pressure and HP if set up correctly, though the components are not eternal or bulletproof.
What happens if you use the wrong transmission fluid?
Make sure you only use the recommended transmission fluid for your engine, since using the wrong kind can damage other parts of your vehicle. The most common situation where the wrong transmission fluid is used is in the case of using automatic transmission fluid (ATF) in place of variable transmission fluid (VTF) and vice versa.
When do You Know you need a transmission serviced?
You might notice a burning smell, dirty fluid, or see transmission fluid on your driveway or garage floor, which could be caused by a leak. Hearing unexpected sounds while the vehicle is in neutral is another signal that you need to get your transmission serviced or scheduled in for repair.