AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION OIL AND CHANGE CHECK
Automatic transmission oil is a special type of oil that is used to keep your automatic transmission in good working order. It is used to lubricate the transmission’s internal components and prevent wear, to keep the transmission cool, and to protect it from corrosion. It is specifically designed for use in automatic transmissions and is not to be confused with engine oil.
The automatic transmission oil should be changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles or as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. In some cases, it may be necessary to change it even earlier, as in when it is dirty or contaminated. It is very important that the correct type of transmission oil be used according to the vehicle’s specifications as transmission damage could result from using an incorrect oil.
When checking the transmission oil level, the vehicle should be parked on level ground, with the engine running and in park or neutral. Once the engine has reached its normal operating temperature, the dipstick should be withdrawn slowly and wiped with a clean cloth to ensure an accurate reading. The dipstick should then be re-inserted slowly and the fluid level should be checked. The fluid level should not be above the “Full” mark, nor should it be below the “Low” mark on the dipstick. If either of these situations is present, there may be a problem with the transmission and the vehicle should be brought to a qualified technician for inspection and repair.
When it comes time to change the automatic transmission oil, the vehicle should be jacked up and the drain plug removed to allow the oil to drain out. The filter should also be removed and the gasket replaced with a new one. A new transmission filter and filter gasket should then be installed before re-filling the transmission with the correct type of oil.
When refilling the transmission with oil, the amount should be checked carefully with the dipstick and kept at the manufacturer’s specified levels. If too much oil is added, it could cause damaging pressure buildup inside the transmission and reduce fuel efficiency. It is important to select the correct oil viscosity grade for the vehicle based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Some vehicles may also require an additive to be added at the time of changing the transmission oil, such as a cleaner. The additive should be added at the correct concentration and stirred in the oil before the vehicle is taken for a test drive.
Correctly checking and changing the automatic transmission oil is an important part of maintaining the transmission. Regular maintenance can help prevent problems later on, such as costly repairs and even replacement of damaged components or the entire transmission. That is why it is so important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals and use the correct type of oil.
