Most vehicle owners don’t think about it much, but transmission fluid is something that can have quite a seismic impact on the operation of their vehicle. This is why it’s important for vehicle owners to check on their transmission fluid periodically, and eventually flush it and replace it with fresh fluid when the time comes.
The question is: how often should you have your transmission fluid flushed? To help give you a general idea, this transmission repair company in Westchester, Illinois is going to explain some of the key things you should know below.
What’s the Typical Frequency for Transmission Fluid Flushes?
While there’s no official number, most transmission repair specialists agree that you should flush your transmission fluid every 60,000 to 100,000 miles of driving. Some cars may be able to get by with every 100,000 miles, while others may need to be flushed a little sooner.
That said, mileage alone isn’t always a great way to determine whether it’s time for a change. Instead, you should be looking out for specific signs. If these signs present themselves, you should consider flushing and replacing your transmission fluid. We’ll review these signs in detail below.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Transmission Fluid
If you notice any of the following issues, it’s strongly recommended that you visit a transmission repair company in Westchester, Illinois for an inspection:
Black Transmission Fluid
One of the biggest signs of the need for a transmission fluid flush is that your transmission fluid is black. Transmission fluid turns black over time because it starts to burn up with use. Once it burns up, it loses its lubricating capabilities, and subjects the transmission’s components to substantial and harmful friction.
This is why, the second you notice black transmission fluid, you’ll need to flush it and replace it.
Charred Scents
Accompanying the black appearance of burnt transmission fluid is the charred scent of burnt transmission fluid. If you smell charred scents coming from your vehicle, you have reason to believe that it’s time for a transmission fluid flush.
To determine whether this is the case, you can open the hood and check your fluid. If it’s black, it’s time for a replacement.
Jumping During Acceleration
Another sign that you need to flush your transmission fluid is that your vehicle jumps forward suddenly while accelerating. This occurs due to slippage in the transmission’s gear set. In some cases, mechanical damage is the culprit. More commonly, however, bad transmission fluid is the culprit.
Again, if you notice this, you should take a quick look at your transmission fluid. If it’s black, it’s time for a change. Any knowledgeable transmission repair company in Westchester, Illinois will be able to make this determination for you.
Rough Idling
The last sign that you might need a transmission fluid flush is that your vehicle is idling roughly. This presents itself as excessive vibration, in most cases. It indicates that your transmission fluid is not properly lubricating your transmission. The longer you allow this problem to persist, the worse it will become.
Again, you should check to see if your transmission fluid is black. If it is, it’s undoubtedly time for a replacement.
Looking for the Best Transmission Repair Company in Westchester, Illinois?
As you can tell, it’s not always about timing — it’s more about the state of your transmission fluid itself. Is your transmission fluid currently due for a flush? If so, and if you’re looking for a transmission repair company in Westchester, Illinois that can get the job done right, King Transmission Company is the place to visit. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
