Do you need to flush the transmission fluid?
Many, but not all, transmission repair shops and automobile dealership service centers offer a transmission fluid flush service. Before flushing your transmission pull the dipstick and look closely at the fluid. If the fluid is dark and has a burnt odor, atransmission flush is not recommended. The recommended service is a fluid and filter change.
Where does transmission fluid go when it leaves the pump?
When the fluid leaves the transmission pump it passes to two different pressure regulators. One regulator supplies fluid at one pressure to the transmission itself that operates the pistons and controls gear shifting. The other is supplies the torque converter and the transmission cooler.
What causes transmission fluid to deteriorate over time?
Like other vital automotive fluids, transmission fluid deteriorates over time. Hard use — such as frequent stop-and-go city driving, hauling heavy loads and trailer towing — will accelerate the deterioration. That kind of driving raises the transmission’s operating temperature, and heat puts more strain on the transmission and the fluid.
What happens when you flush a transmission converter?
A simple fluid change cannot remove all of the built up deposits that accumulate over time as is done during a flush. Also, some of the fluid is usually stored in the torque converter potentially contaminating the new fluid that is put in. What is the point of that?
Many, but not all, transmission repair shops and automobile dealership service centers offer a transmission fluid flush service. Before flushing your transmission pull the dipstick and look closely at the fluid. If the fluid is dark and has a burnt odor, atransmission flush is not recommended. The recommended service is a fluid and filter change.
What happens when you change oil in a manual transmission?
In a manual transmission, this procedure lets you completely drain and replace nearly all of the oil. But in an automatic, this process will replenish only about half of the fluid. The other half stays in the torque converter and the lines running to the cooler.
When is the best time to change transmission fluid?
Over time, your transmission fluid wears out and gets dirty. It loses its lubricating qualities and picks up debris. Replacing the old fluid with fresh, new fluid at prescribed intervals is the best way to keep your transmission running smoothly and reliably.
How is a transmission flush different from a filter change?
» A transmission fluid flush is different from a fluid and filter change. » A fluid flush will not repair an internal transmission problem. » A fluid flush is a preventative maintenance procedure, not a cure all solution. » A flush is not recommended for certain high mileage vehicles.
Can a high pressure flushing machine damage a transmission?
High-pressure flushing machines can also blow out internal seals in high-mileage transmissions. NOTE: High mileage vehicles that have not routinely had transmission flushes performed are at the greatest risk of damage resulting from a high-pressure flush.
How does a transmission flush machine work on a car?
A transmission flush machine uses high pressure along with a cleaning agent to flush the old fluid out of the transmission while simultaneously cleaning the internal parts. During this process, the high-pressure cleaning does such a thorough job that it dislodges dirt and debris that the transmission’s internal pump is not strong enough to do.
How do you check the transmission fluid level?
With the engine still on and at idle, pull the transmission dipstick and check the fluid level. If it shows full, (or in the full range), wipe the dipstick clean then reinsert it back into the tube. Check fluid level a second time to confirm the reading. If it shows full a second time, you are done.