What are the properties of automatic transmission fluid?
An ATF requires high lubrication performance, high levels of oxidation stability to withstand the locally high operating temperatures, a degree of fluidity that ensures easy operation in cold weather, stable viscosity properties, closely controlled frictional behaviour to ensure quiet, consistent and chatter-free take- …
What is automatic transmission fluid made of?
Modern ATF consists of a base oil plus an additive package containing a wide variety of chemical compounds intended to provide the required properties of a particular ATF specification.
What does the automatic transmission fluid do?
In an automatic transmission, it not only lubricates the moving parts, but also provides hydraulic pressure and friction to make the internal parts work. Transmission fluid in both manual and automatic transmissions also helps to keep the transmission cool.
What are the types of automatic transmission fluid?
The most common types are Dexron/Mercon and Multi-Vehicle Synthetic. The transmission is one of the most complex systems in a vehicle, so it is critical to use an appropriate and high-quality ATF to help ensure performance well past the 100k mile mark.
How do I know if I need transmission fluid?
Signs of Low Transmission Fluid
- Noises. If your transmission is working properly, you shouldn’t hear any noise while you’re driving as it should transition smoothly.
- Burning Smell. Any foul smell coming from your car should direct you to your nearest service center.
- Transmission Leaks.
- Slipping Gears.
What are the specifications for automatic transmission fluid?
It must fulfill manyf specifications. Other than lube oils, ATFs are colored (red or green) to distinguish them from other liquids used in a vehicle. ATFs are specified mainly according to vehicle manufacturers’ directives, common are DEXRON (General Motors) or MERCON (Ford).
What makes an automatic transmission fluid an ATF?
ATF is not an oil but a mixture of various chemical compounds containing a large number of additives. It must fulfill manyf specifications. Other than lube oils, ATFs are colored (red or green) to distinguish them from other liquids used in a vehicle.
What does transmission fluid look like on a car?
What Does Transmission Fluid Look Like? Generally, automatic transmission fluid is a thinner consistency and is clear with a red hue, although some automatic transmission fluids are now blue/green, purple or even amber, depending on the manufacturer.
What kind of oil does an automatic transmission use?
Automatic transmissions use regular automatic transmission fluid, as the name suggests. Manual transmission fluid can vary, however, using either plain motor oil, a transmission oil known as heavyweight hypoid gear oil, or automatic transmission fluid.