If you want your vehicle to run efficiently, it’s important that you keep it filled up with clean transmission fluid. Transmission fluid is the lubricant of the transmission, and it ensures that its inner components aren’t producing too much friction.
The problem with transmission fluid is that, over time, it burns up and takes on a sludgy, tar-like consistency. For this reason, it’s important that you change your transmission fluid from time to time.
Are you wondering how to tell when it’s time to change your transmission fluid? If so, then you’ve come to the right place. This Chicago transmission repair company is going to explain everything you need to know.
Indications That Your Transmission Fluid is Deteriorated
In truth, it’s difficult to predict just how long transmission fluid will last. For this reason, it’s best to look out for a few key indications of deterioration. The most common indications of transmission fluid deterioration include the following:
A Burnt Look
Over time, transmission fluid burns up. As this occurs, it starts to take on a more burnt appearance — in other words, it becomes black and tarry.
If you want to determine whether it’s time for a transmission fluid change, you should take note of its color. Look for your transmission fluid dipstick (it’s usually red) and pull it out. If black fluid comes up with it, your transmission fluid needs to be replaced.
A Burnt Smell
Not only will transmission fluid take on a burnt color over time, but a burnt aroma as well. Therefore, if you smell burning from your vehicle, you should take a close look at the transmission. Yes, there are a number of other vehicle components that could cause a burning smell, but the transmission is a common source.
Hesitations in Shifting
When a vehicle accelerates or decelerates, the gears in its transmission shift. If the transmission is in good shape, the gears will do this smoothly in a way that’s barely noticeable to the driver. If the transmission is in bad shape, however, the gears will likely hesitate while shifting, causing a rough jerk as the gears shift.
As such, if you’re experiencing hesitations in your vehicle’s shifting, it’s recommended that you bring your vehicle to a transmission repair shop. Odds are, a transmission fluid change will fix the issue.
How Long Does Transmission Fluid Typically Last?
There is no set time period for how long transmission fluid will last. Its duration is dependent on a variety of different factors.
The biggest factor to consider is the amount that the vehicle has been driven. The more miles a vehicle travels, the more its transmission fluid is going to burn up. Note, though, that some vehicles put less stress on transmission fluid, meaning some cars can get more mileage out of it than others.
You should also consider the type of transmission fluid that’s being used. Synthetic transmission fluid will always last longer than standard transmission fluid.
That being said, transmission fluid should generally last between 30,000 and 60,000 miles of travel. Synthetic fluid can often last up to 75,000, and, in some cases, up to 90,000. In any case, once you hit that 30,000-mile mark, it’s best that you keep an eye on your transmission fluid tank.
Need a Chicago Transmission Repair Company?
Is it time for a transmission flush? Looking for a Chicago transmission repair company? If so, King Transmission has you covered.
We’ve flushed more than our fair share of transmissions over the years. Serving all makes and models, we can have your vehicle running smoothly in no time.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
