What does it mean when my transmission fluid is dark?
Nearly black or black transmission fluid means the fluid is old, very dirty, contaminated, and if paired with a burnt toast smell, has oxidized. If your transmission is showing signs of slipping or hesitation, repair or replacement may be in order.
Is dark transmission fluid bad?
The reason why transmission fluid changes from bright red to brown to black as it ages is that is it oxidizing. Oxidation is bad for transmission fluid. Dark brown or black transmission fluid is dirty and incapable of lubricating the hundreds of transmission parts. It will cause damage if you don’t have it changed.
What happens if your transmission fluid is dirty?
Excess dirt and contaminants in the transmission can cause a loss of hydraulic power, therefore keeping the transmission from staying in the appropriate gear. A dirty transmission can quickly start to interfere with transmission fluid flow, resulting in the lack of pressure needed for the transmission to stay in gear.
Is there any truth about changing transmission fluid?
The usual story is something along the lines of “older American make care with 200,000 miles, a week after we changed the fluid, the transmission went out.” Is there any truth to this?
Is there any truth to the ” myth ” about changing fluid?
To this end, I’ve seen transmission which get flushed, having never had the fluid changed, destroy itself within a few thousand miles. Yet, the same type of vehicle, if left alone, would have lasted many, many more miles without the flush. Mind you, as stated, this is subjective.
How much fluid does a transmission pan drop change?
The debate about transmission fluid change revolves around a basic problem. Typically, a transmission pan drop & fluid change only changes about half the fluid.
What’s the best way to drain transmission fluid?
Make sure and check with the dealership and ONLY use whats recommended for your vehicle. Drain the transmission fluid into a pan and THEN transfer the fluid you drained into some type of a container that you have the capacity to measure HOW MUCH fluid there is.