If you’re wondering how often transmission fluid is replaced, you should understand the importance of its purpose. Clean transmission fluid is crucial as it keeps the surfaces and components of the transmission system lubricated, which prevents the friction that causes overheating. A second important purpose of transmission fluid is that it transmits power from the engine to the transmission unit so that your vehicle can actually move.
It a fact of vehicle ownership that transmission fluid deteriorates over time and should be replaced. Some driving conditions, such as stop-and-go city driving, hauling heavy loads, or towing, actually raise the transmission’s operating temperature, putting more strain on the transmission and the fluid. These conditions impact how long transmission fluid can retain its effectiveness.
An inspection of your transmission is needed if you are experiencing any of the problems listed below:
- Delayed shifting.
- Difficulty and/or noisy shifting.
- Slipping in and out of gear.
- Overheating and burning smell.