Your vehicle holds many different fluids, and transmission fluid is one of them. This red solution is responsible for lubricating your transmission components to keep them operating smoothly. Over time, this fluid collects dirt and grime, making it less effective. That is why it is important for drivers to regularly change their transmission fluid.

How Often Should I Change My Transmission Fluid?

It's hard to define how often you need to change your transmission fluid because it is typically set by your automaker. However, most manufacturers claim that you should flush your fluid every 30,000-60,000 miles for manual vehicles or every 50,000-100,000 miles for automatic cars.

Other factors may influence the quality of your transmission fluid as well. For example, if you drive in the city and have to stop and go frequently, it can accelerate the degradation of your fluid. Furthermore, towing and hauling large loads will cause quicker deterioration of the lubricant. 

What To Look for When Inspecting Your Transmission Fluid

You can also determine when your next transmission fluid change is by checking the fluid itself. Here are some red flags to look for:

• Dark red fluid
• Odor or burning smell with the fluid
• Debris or contaminated fluid

Additionally, your driving behavior may be impacted. If your transmission keeps slipping out of gear or is noisy during gear changes, you may need a transmission fluid change. Most automakers recommend having a professional technician check your fluid level since it is tough to get access to. 

If you are looking for quality transmission services, we invite you to bring your car to City Garage today! We have 14 convenient locations.