Determining the frequency of transmission fluid and filter changes hinges on many factors
Transmission fluid: it is the lifeblood of your transmission. Without it, your vehicle would cease to run. You need to have the transmission fluid and filter changed at recommended intervals as per your vehicle’s owner’s manual, and a transmission flush ought to be performed at least once every three years.
Transmission fluids serve three purposes: it serves as the hydraulic element within the transmission regulating gear changes, it keeps the transmission clean and lubricated, and it cools the entire transmission system.
There is a lot of friction happening within the transmission. These mechanisms are designed to work with the full capacity of transmission fluid. If the levels drop, that friction is less productive and more damaging. Over time, heat will break the fluid down and be unable to lubricate the system effectively. That puts pressure on the transmission to work harder to pump fluid through the filter.
If you are experiencing performance issues with your vehicle, you may wish to check your car’s transmission fluid level. But be advised: checking your transmission fluid level can be risky as you need to keep the engine running.
Moreover, in some modern vehicles, it is no longer possible for the average motorist to perform a transmission fluid check. It is advisable to have trained, experienced transmission technician inspect your transmission and the quality of the fluid in it.
Though your vehicle’s owner’s manual will make recommendations as to the required frequency of changing the transmission fluid and filter, you should also weigh the type of driving you do, and the environment where you drive. If you have high mileage on your vehicle, drive in mountainous or hilly terrain, regularly tow a trailer or boat, or if you’re hauling heavy loads, have your transmission inspected annually.
Although there are no guarantees you can avoid a transmission failure no matter how well you treat your vehicle, you can reduce the risk of a transmission malfunction by ensuring preventative maintenance is performed regularly by a professional.
For more than 50 years, Mister Transmission has kept Canadian motorists on the road by ensuring the transmissions in their vehicles are in tip-top shape. If you have a question about your transmission or want to book a service appointment, contact the Mister Transmission service centre nearest to you.
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