Book an automatic transmission fluid replacement
To help make sure you’re getting smooth gear shifts and a long transmission life you need to maintain your automatic transmission fluid. So when you need to, make sure you have that old fluid drained and refilled at an RAC Approved Garage.
Book a diagnostic
A mechanic will check your car for faults and talk you through any repairs you might need. There are various ways to check for faults, which could include a physical examination or plugging in to check your car’s onboard engine management system.
Content Guide
Introduction
Automatic transmission fluid helps your car's transmission system run smoothly. It lubricates, cools, and ensures your transmission works. Changing the automatic transmission fluid keeps your vehicle running well.
What is automatic transmission fluid?
Automatic transmission fluid is an oil designed to lubricate and cool the moving parts of your car's automatic transmission. It also creates the hydraulic pressure that the transmission needs to run. There are different types of automatic transmission fluid for different vehicles and transmission types, so it's important to use the right fluid for your car.
Automatic transmission fluid has a few different functions, including:
- Lubrication: Reducing friction between moving parts to prevent wear and tear.
- Cooling: Dissipating heat generated by the transmission.
- Hydraulic pressure: Helping to create smooth gear shifts and transmission operation.
- Cleaning: Keeping the transmission clean by carrying away debris and contaminants.
What causes the automatic transmission fluid to need changing?
It might need changing for a few reasons, including:
- Contamination: Dirt, metal particles, and other debris can get into it, making it less effective.
- Fluid breakdown: Over time, automatic transmission fluid loses its ability to lubricate and cool due to chemical breakdown and oxidation.
- Regular wear and tear: The friction and heat generated by the transmission damages the quality of the fluid.
- Driving conditions: Frequent stop-and-go driving, towing heavy loads, or driving in extreme temperatures can shorten its life span.
To keep your car in good condition, regularly change your automatic transmission fluid.
What are the signs my automatic transmission fluid needs changing?
Common signs that your automatic transmission fluid needs changing include:
- Slipping gears: If your transmission slips out of gear or struggles to stay in gear, the fluid might be old or low.
- Delayed gear shifting: A delay in shifting gears can be caused by degraded fluid.
- Unusual noises: Grinding or whining sounds from the transmission are warning signs.
- Overheating: If the transmission overheats, it might be because the fluid is in poor condition.
- Dirty or discoloured fluid: Healthy automatic transmission fluid is typically bright red. Dark, brown, or black fluid shows it’s time for a change.
- Burnt smell: A burnt odour from the automatic transmission fluid indicates overheating and potential damage.
Addressing these symptoms early can prevent more serious issues and costly repairs down the line.
How can I check my automatic transmission fluid?
To check if your automatic transmission fluid needs changing:
- Check the fluid level: Use the dipstick to check the fluid level while the engine is warm and running. Make sure the car is on level ground before you start.
- Inspect the fluid colour: Healthy automatic transmission fluid is bright red and clear. If the fluid is dark, brown, or black, it needs changing.
- Smell the fluid: Burnt-smelling fluid is a sign it needs replacing.
- Check the service interval: Refer to your vehicle’s manual to see how often they recommend changing it.
If you’ve tried to check your fluid yourself, but are still unsure whether it needs changing, call a mechanic.
Automatic transmission fluid change cost
The cost of an automatic transmission fluid change can vary based on several factors:
- Type of vehicle: Different vehicles need different types of fluid.
- Type of fluid: Higher quality or synthetic fluids can be more expensive.
- Labour costs: Rates vary by location and mechanic.
- Service scope: A simple automatic transmission fluid change costs less than a complete flush or added services like filter replacement.
Make sure you get multiple quotes to help get the best price.
Frequently Asked Questions on automatic transmission fluid change
Automatic transmission fluid should be changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. However, always check your vehicle’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendation. Your driving habits and the conditions you drive in will affect how quickly your fluid degrades. Regular checks and following the manufacturer’s guidelines will help to make sure your transmission stays in good condition.
If you don’t change the automatic transmission fluid, it can become contaminated and lose its effectiveness, leading to transmission wear and potential failure. Over time, dirty automatic transmission fluid can cause increased friction, overheating, and significant transmission damage. Regular changes will help you avoid costly repairs and keep the transmission running smoothly.
Fresh automatic transmission fluid is bright red and clear. If your fluid looks clean and smells fresh, it’s been changed recently. You can also check the service records for confirmation. If in doubt, ask your mechanic to check.
Signs that you might need a transmission flush include:
- Slipping gears: The transmission struggles to stay in gear.
- Delayed gear engagement: There’s a noticeable delay when shifting gears.
- Overheating: The transmission becomes excessively hot.
- Unusual noises: Grinding or whining sounds from the transmission.
- Dirty fluid: The automatic transmission fluid is dark or discoloured.
A flush can help remove contaminants and restore the fluid’s effectiveness.
It’s often best to have a professional do it. The process can be messy and requires proper disposal of old fluid. Professional services also include checks and diagnostics to ensure everything is working.
Transmission fluid is used in automatic transmissions, while gearbox oil is used in manual transmissions. They’re made to do different jobs, so they’re not interchangeable. Automatic transmission fluid is designed for the hydraulic and cooling needs of automatic transmissions, while gearbox oil provides the necessary lubrication for manual transmissions.
An automatic transmission flush is a service where all the old automatic transmission fluid is removed, and new fluid is added. It helps remove contaminants and old fluid that might be stuck in the transmission. It’s more thorough than a simple fluid change and can help restore the transmission’s performance.
Yes, changing the automatic transmission fluid is necessary to keep your vehicle’s transmission running well. Over time, the fluid degrades and becomes less effective, leading to potential transmission problems. Regular changes help the transmission run smoothly and can prevent costly repairs down the line.
To extend the life of your automatic transmission fluid:
- Regular maintenance: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for fluid changes.
- Avoid excessive heat: Don’t overload your vehicle or tow heavy loads when you don’t have to.
- Check for leaks: Regularly inspect your vehicle for fluid leaks.
- Smooth driving: Avoid aggressive driving habits that can overheat the transmission.
Proper care and regular upkeep can significantly extend the life of your automatic transmission fluid and transmission.
An automatic transmission fluid change will typically take about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the vehicle and the service provider. This includes draining the old fluid, replacing the filter (if necessary), and refilling with new fluid. If more services or diagnostics are needed, it could take longer.
If your transmission fluid is low:
- Check for leaks: Look for any visible leaks under the car.
- Top up the fluid: Use the right type of fluid for your vehicle.
- Monitor the fluid level: Regularly check the fluid level to make sure it stays within the recommended range.
- Consult a mechanic: If the fluid level continues to drop speak to a mechanic so that they can inspect and fix any issues.
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