What are the Signs of Low Transmission Fluid?
Before we answer this question, let us first tell you what transmission fluid is and what it does. The purpose of transmission fluid is to lubricate all the surfaces and components of the transmission system to prevent excessive friction and overheating so they don’t wear out too quickly. It is also a viscous (thick and sticky) fluid that transmits power from the engine to the transmission.
Theoretically, transmission fluid could remain in your vehicle for its entire lifespan without changing it. But this is open to debate by many mechanics. The manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for many automatic transmissions doesn’t call for fresh fluid until 100,000 miles. Some mechanics say that it should be changed at least every 50,000 miles.
Over time, however, transmission fluid will deteriorate. Hard use, such as frequent stop-and-go city driving, hauling heavy loads, trailer towing, raising the transmission’s operating temperature and putting more strain on the transmission and the fluid. Also, a leak could develop in the transmission due to worn out or damaged parts.
Transmission fluid often is red but can come in other colors, and as it deteriorates it tends to turn darker. It may also acquire a burned odor that could indicate it needs to be changed or that the transmission is developing mechanical problems.
What are the signs of low transmission fluid?
- Delayed shifting.
- Difficulty and/or noisy shifting.
- Slipping in and out of gear.
- Overheating and burning smell.
Start checking your transmission fluid about once a month. If the above signs persist after you have topped off the transmission fluid, you will probably be facing a costly transmission repair. If you put a lot of miles on your vehicle or tow heavy loads, then you should check it at least every two weeks.
Looking for quality transmission repair? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at Rebel Automotive for more information about the signs of low transmission fluid and schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Henderson, NV, Las Vegas, NV, and North Las Vegas, NV.
Before we answer this question, let us first tell you what transmission fluid is and what it does. The purpose of transmission fluid is to lubricate all the surfaces and components of the transmission system to prevent excessive friction and overheating so they don’t wear out too quickly. It is also a viscous (thick and sticky) fluid that transmits power from the engine to the transmission.
Theoretically, transmission fluid could remain in your vehicle for its entire lifespan without changing it. But this is open to debate by many mechanics. The manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for many automatic transmissions doesn’t call for fresh fluid until 100,000 miles. Some mechanics say that it should be changed at least every 50,000 miles.
Over time, however, transmission fluid will deteriorate. Hard use, such as frequent stop-and-go city driving, hauling heavy loads, trailer towing, raising the transmission’s operating temperature and putting more strain on the transmission and the fluid. Also, a leak could develop in the transmission due to worn out or damaged parts.
Transmission fluid often is red but can come in other colors, and as it deteriorates it tends to turn darker. It may also acquire a burned odor that could indicate it needs to be changed or that the transmission is developing mechanical problems.
What are the signs of low transmission fluid?
- Delayed shifting.
- Difficulty and/or noisy shifting.
- Slipping in and out of gear.
- Overheating and burning smell.
Start checking your transmission fluid about once a month. If the above signs persist after you have topped off the transmission fluid, you will probably be facing a costly transmission repair. If you put a lot of miles on your vehicle or tow heavy loads, then you should check it at least every two weeks.
Looking for quality transmission repair? Contact our ASE-certified technicians at Rebel Automotive for more information about the signs of low transmission fluid and schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Henderson, NV, Las Vegas, NV, and North Las Vegas, NV.
