Why You Should Flush Your Transmission Fluid
You should flush your transmission fluid at recommended intervals because, much like the oil in your engine, your transmission fluid can become contaminated with dirt and debris. When your transmission becomes clogged with particulates, it can lead to transmission damage and overheating. Just about nine out of ten transmission failures are attributed to either particulate in the transmission or overheating because of them.
Unlike engine oil, transmission oil often cannot be completely drained from your vehicle. It stays in the transmission lines and other parts, and simply flushing all of it is impossible. A typical transmission service only gets about 25% of the contaminants out. If you add new transmission fluid in this manner, it can mix with the old and create a sludge that will shut down your transmission in a hurry.
Luckily, Willoughby Hills Auto Repair is here to help. Our transmission flush process removes most, if not all, of the varnish and deposits from your entire transmission and the fluid inside. The fluid exchange we perform removes all the metal bits and particulates from both the fluid and the transmission itself and replaces removed fluid with a fresh batch. If you’ve noticed rough shifting, grinding when you shift or park, or strange noises or smells, then it might be time for a transmission flush service. This service alone, performed every 30,000 miles or so, can help keep your transmission healthy and avoid extremely costly repairs in the future.
Let’s Talk About Your Transmission
Transmissions are extremely complicated and delicate machines, and they are designed to last for thousands upon thousands of miles. Eventually, though, like all machines, your transmission will wear down and need repair or replacement. There are steps you can take, however, to make sure your transmission stands the test of time and lasts as long as possible.
The first and most important step you can take is making sure your transmission always has enough fluid. Without an adequate level of transmission fluid, parts can rub together, creating friction. This friction can damage transmission parts and cause overheating if you aren’t careful. Your transmission level does more than just lubricate; it also creates the pressure required for the car to shift gears. Without transmission fluid, you won’t be shifting a single gear.
If you come to Willoughby Hills Auto Repair in Willoughby Hills, OH, for a full-service oil change, part of that service is us checking your transmission fluid and topping it off if needed. If you need topping off and you’ve noticed fluid in your driveway or garage, you may need us to inspect your transmission for leaks.
The second thing you can to keep your transmission shifting is to make sure you replace the transmission fluid on a timely schedule. Even with proper transmission fluid, all those moving parts are going to produce some microscopic metal shavings. When those get into your transmission fluid, you can bet it can cause problems.
There are also detergents and additives that are added to transmission fluid. These protective additives do break down over time, so you’ll want to get with the experts at Willoughby Hills Auto Repair or consult your owner’s manual to determine when you should have your transmission flushed.
If you transmission doesn’t seem to be working as it should, or you suspect you may have a leak in your transmission, the experienced professionals at Willoughby Hills Auto Repair in Willoughby Hills, OH are here to help. Make an appointment today.