The Importance Of Keeping Track Of Your Transmission Fluid Levels |
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Stephen Daniels
SubmitYOURArticle.com
July 9, 2011
With regards to auto maintenance, most of us are well aware of some of the basics. For example, everyone knows that it's essential to get the oil changed on a regular basis, to check the oil in between changes, and to add some if necessary. The same thing goes for making sure that we have the proper level of coolant in the radiator. However, most of us rarely think about the transmissions in our cars. With most cars having automatic transmissions nowadays, few people give much thought to what the transmission actually does, how significant it is to the proper running of the car, and to the huge (and expensive) problems that can result from neglecting to keep the transmission fluid topped off.
Your car's transmission is in essence a gearbox that takes the power of the engine and transfers it to the driving wheels. In most cars, this is done automatically (known as an automatic transmission) based on the relative speed of the vehicle at any given moment. In other cars (what are traditionally known as "manuals" or "stick shifts") the driver chooses the gears to use at any given time. In either case, these gearboxes require lubrication in order to function their best. Automatic transmissions use a specialized fluid that is part lubricant and part coolant, while manual transmissions can use a variety of different fluids.
The suggested interval for changing your transmission fluid varies from car to car, but you really should make it a priority to have a complete change done approximately every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Your owner's manual, of course, is an excellent source of guidance on the proper maintenance schedule, and of course, talking to someone at your preferred auto repair shop should be helpful if you can't find your owner's manual or the information you need.
Transmission fluid needs to be changed because in the course of normal function over time, it tends to get contaminated with tiny metal particles worn off from the transmission itself, and thus loses its power to properly lubricate the gearbox. Lack of proper lubrication causes grinding of the gears and this will greatly reduce the life of the transmission. The cost to replace your transmission can easily run to thousands of dollars.
Though it is possible to learn how to top off the fluids on your own, when it comes to your transmission - especially a total transmission fluid change, it is far easier and safer to leave it to the auto maintenance professionals. It is usually a quick and relatively cheap process and will save you a good deal of hassle.
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