In many cases, transmission fluid serves its purpose admirably for a very long period of time. However, this isn’t to say that transmission fluid thrives forever. At some point, it will need to be flushed and replaced with fresh fluid.
More often than not, transmission fluid tends to lose its efficacy somewhere between 30,000 and 60,000 miles of use. This figure varies based on a number of different factors, including the quality of your automobile and any damage which its transmission may have suffered.
Signs That It’s Time for a Change
Instead of trying to estimate the time for a transmission fluid change based on mileage, you should look for signs that your transmission fluid is no longer getting the job done. Here are some specific signs to consider.
Charred Fluid
When fresh, transmission fluid will possess a dark red color. As long as it’s still thriving, it will continue to possess this color. However, at some point, after the fluid has been used to excess, it will lose its red shade.
What color will it possess instead? In most cases, it will be dark brown or black. This color comes about due to the fluid becoming burnt and charred. When transmission fluid becomes burnt and charred, it can no longer serve its intended purpose.
Instead of lubricating your transmission, charred fluid will cause it to jam up and grind. Allowing this jamming and grinding to continue for a prolonged period of time can result in a permanently damaged transmission.
Faulty Shifting
Do you ever notice a slight delay in shifting while driving your automobile? It might feel as if your car is stuck even while it is moving. If so, your transmission fluid is more than likely the culprit.
Transmission fluid is used to provide lubrication to the transmission’s many moving parts. When these parts do not receive proper lubrication, they aren’t able to behave in the way they’re designed to. The safe solution is it to swap out your old transmission fluid for new transmission fluid.
Clunking Noises
While your transmission is going to make some noise, there are specific noises which it should never be making. These noises include everything from screeches, to clunks, to whistles, and more.
When a transmission makes these noises, it’s an indication that it is suffering from some sort of a problem. While this problem could be minor (such as old transmission fluid), it could also be a huge cause for concern (damaged transmission component). In any case, if these noises are present, you should have your car checked out by a transmission repair service in Chicago.
Burning Scents
A sure sign that your transmission fluid needs to be changed is if it possesses a burning smell. Transmission fluid which possesses this smell has quite simply been overused to the point that it has become charred.
When transmission fluid reaches this state, it no longer possesses the consistency needed for it to do its job. Instead of lubricating the many moving parts of your transmission, it will eventually cause them to jam and slip.
Utilize Professional Transmission Repair Services in Chicago
Though it’s possible to flush your transmission fluid on your own, if you’re not experienced in doing so, it can be a hassle. If this is the case for you, it’s highly recommended that you utilize the services of a professional transmission repair company in Chicago.
We here at King Transmission Company have been serving Chicagoland for just under 60 years. Regardless of the make or model of your vehicle, our team of transmission repair specialists has you covered.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
