What Is Transmission Oil, And What Do You Need To Know About Transmission Oil Changes?

August 5, 2022 | By Mister Transmission

What Is Transmission Oil, And What Do You Need To Know About Transmission Oil Changes?

Discover what transmission oil is, what it does, what transmissions use transmission oil, and learn what you need to know about transmission oil changes.

What Is Transmission Oil?

There’s a good chance that you’re familiar with engine oil, or motor oil. And there’s a good chance that you’re familiar with automatic transmission fluid. Well, transmission oil is the same, except it’s used for manual transmissions. There are some important caveats to this, but it’s a good way to think about transmission oil.

Transmission oil, also called gear oil, lubricates, cleans, and cools manual transmissions. It cleans out particulate matter from within your transmission and helps to keep it from overheating. Old or degraded transmission oil doesn’t do this as well, so as your oil gets old, it needs to be changed. Transmission oil has a peculiar smell because it contains sulfur-bearing anti-wear compounds. These compounds help to minimize high-sliding friction by the helical gear cut of the teeth. Many motorcycles have clutches bathed in transmission oil because there’s often no separation of the lower engine and the transmission, so the same oil lubricates both the engine and transmission.

Transmission Oil Changes

Automatic transmission fluid typically needs to be changed every 48,000-95,000 kilometres. A manual transmission’s oil needs to be changed at similar intervals, but, speaking generally, transmission oil changes are needed less frequently. Some automakers claim that the original transmission oil never needs to be changed, because their transmission functions as a closed circuit. However, the transmission oil might still need to be changed because of transmission problems, repairs, or leaks. As a result, such claims ought to be treated with some skepticism. The technicians at Mister Transmission can provide you with a more specific transmission oil change interval depending on the type of vehicle you drive, where you drive, and how you use your vehicle.

Why Do Manual Transmissions Use Transmission Oil?

First, it’s important to state that not all manual transmissions use transmission oil. Some use transmission fluid just as automatic transmissions use. Some auto manufacturers suggest using only synthetic transmission fluid. Other manual transmissions use motor oil just as your engine might. But other manual transmissions use transmission oil.

Transmissions can be designed differently with different parts located in different areas. Because of these, each manufacturer has their own recommendations about which oils or fluids are best. It’s important to check your vehicle owner’s manual to see what your auto’s manufacturer recommends. And, once again, you can ask the helpful technicians at Mister Transmission on their advice for what’s best for your transmission.

Come To Mister Transmission For Transmission Fluid Or Oil Changes.

Please contact us to schedule a transmission oil or fluid change.

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Customer Reviews
I have a 2013 Honda...
Sarah Seeley
I have a 2013 Honda CRV with the typical Rear Diff issues and AWD not working. Honda quoted me at $5020.27 plus the $160.61 just to take a look for 45 min. Called Mr.Transmission and got a very friendly man over the phone who was eager to help, he gave me an estimate and booked a time within that next week to take a look, found me a few affordable options within my price range on a used part, and booked me in! They did an amazing job, quickly, and affordabley. They are 10/10 I would HIGHLY reccomend!!!
Date: November 29, 2023
Website: Google
Good service and attentive staff....
Pierre Genest
Good service and attentive staff. Explained the problem the possible fixes and was not pushy..... recommend.
Date: November 29, 2023
Website: Google
Dan and Lorenzo helped me...
Patrick Dubé
Dan and Lorenzo helped me figure out the best way to get my truck running again. They got it fixed quick and now it runs like new.
Date: November 29, 2023
Website: Google
Dealt with Phil. Very thorough...
J. C.
Dealt with Phil. Very thorough and gave me a quote which was cheaper than competitors. Told him I was on a time crunch. Got it done real fast and stuck to the price quoted. Highly recommend!
Date: November 29, 2023
Website: Google
Very good shop! Quality and...
Shanell Katz
Very good shop! Quality and quick service. Will def recommend in the future
Date: November 29, 2023
Website: Google
My transmission blew and Giorgio...
Karla K
My transmission blew and Giorgio was able to assess it same day and provide a rough estimate for both new and used replacements. The whole team was kind and seemed to genuinely care about my safety - Giorgio even connected with me with a local used car dealer so I could explore options for a buying a replacement vehicle. Thank you so much! Highly recommend.
Date: November 29, 2023
Website: Google
Great communication and care given....
Yvonne Grainger
Great communication and care given. The office was very accommodating to getting our car in quickly.
Date: November 29, 2023
Website: Google
Took my car in for...
O K
Took my car in for a suspected issue. They cleared my concern with my transmission and didn't charge a penny. I spoke with the tech and advised what my next steps would be. Great service
Date: November 28, 2023
Website: Google
Finding out your transmission is...
Eric Zbrog
Finding out your transmission is pooched is terrible news no matter who you are. Seems like Darren understands that. He was a very reasonable person to deal with during the tranny swap, friendly, understanding and helpful. Found us a good used transmission to soften the blow. Thanks!
Date: November 27, 2023
Website: Google
I already did omfg
Marc Cormier
I already did omfg
Date: November 26, 2023
Website: Google
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