You might wonder if changing the transmission fluid can be done safely. The short answer is yes. It can be helpful to change the transmission fluid in certain circumstances. However, it can also prove harmful.
We will cover a few points here. First, let’s look at why changing transmission oil is so important.
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Why is it important to change transmission fluid?
Transmission fluid is crucial for proper lubrication. Transmission fluid can become contaminated with dirt and grime, which can lead to fluid flow problems in the moving parts. Old or contaminated transmission fluid can make it difficult to flow and cause heating problems, whining, and slippage. Since transmission fluids do not evaporate You have to replace them if they become dry or stale like engine oil.
It is recommended that transmission fluid be changed every 50,000 to 100,000 mi. If it has clogged up, The transmission fluid should be changed only if it is done properly. Let’s look at the situations where changing the transmission fluid could cause damage.
When is it okay to not change transmission fluid?
It is important to ask yourself several questions before you make a decision about whether changing the transmission fluid is good or bad for your vehicle.
- Is your car old or new?
- How well is your transmission maintained?
- Do you have an automatic transmission or a manual transmission in your car?
- Are you a low- or high-mileage driver?
Based on the questions above, you can decide whether your transmission fluid needs to change. There are two options: flush the old fluid and change the transmission fluid.
When is the transmission fluid due for replacement?
This will depend on how well your car’s transmission has been maintained. The old transmission fluid can still mix with the new fluid even after it has been changed. After changing the fluid, 50% of the old fluid remains. However, flushing will remove 100% of the old fluid.
If the gearbox, or any other transmission component isn’t maintained well, grease and grime can build-up in the fluid. If this happens, it is possible for the fluid to remain in the transmission system’s tubes. If the vehicle is new, or the transmission system isn’t well-maintained, it is better to change the fluid than flushing.
When is transmission fluid to be changed?
Flushing the fluid will remove all particles from the container. Flushing the fluid is recommended if your car has a low-mileage or old model. It is also important to maintain the transmission system properly in order to flush the fluid.
If the transmission system is not maintained properly, the old fluid can slowly clog with debris from the outside. Flushing out old fluid can remove the clogged fluid and cause sludge to build up in the transmission system.
Flushing the fluid is a better option for older cars with lower mileage if the transmission system has been properly maintained. Flushing the oil in automatic transmissions is a good idea. The thick oil can cause damage to the clutches. Make sure to check the transmission fluid level Clearly understand the problem to determine its root cause.
FAQ’s about Can You Change Transmission Fluids?
Is It Better To Flush Or Change The Transmission Fluid?
Oil changes and flushing each have advantages over the other. To make sure there is no remaining old oil, flush the system before adding new transmission fluid. However, this may result in transmission slipping and the leftover collection of old transmission fluid.
If you change the transmission fluid, the old fluid will still be present ( around 50%) and mixed with the new fluid.
Is it OK to Change the Transmission Fluid After 100k Miles?
The type of transmission system your car has will determine this. While automatic transmissions can go up to 100,000 miles, manual transmission fluid can last for as little as 30,000 to 60,000 miles.
Conclusion
It is vital to ensure the transmission is working properly. Regularly, the transmission fluid must be changed. But, if the fluid isn’t properly maintained, flushing it can cause more harm than good.
While some oil will still be in the container, it is best to change the transmission fluid when the car is newer or the transmission needs to be maintained. You should keep your transmission system in tip-top shape by regularly changing the fluid and cooling it.
Hey, I’m Bryan and I have been working as a mechanic for the past 8 years. I want to help each one of you reach make wise decisions when it comes to choosing the right products for keeping your cars healthy.
