When to Change Transmission Fluid
As a car owner, you’re probably familiar with a few of the various types of fluid your vehicle needs to run properly. From motor oil to radiator fluid, your car depends on these fluids to keep performing like new. However, have you ever thought about the transmission fluid? Transmission fluid is an essential part of the operation of your vehicle. So, what is transmission fluid? When do you need to change transmission fluid? How can you tell when something isn’t quite right with your transmission fluid? Here at Ira Toyota Saco, we have your back. Drivers near Saco, Portland, and Scarborough, ME, should read on to find out the answers to these questions.
What Is Transmission Fluid?
Let’s start with the basics. What is transmission fluid? To understand this, you’ll want to be sure you know what your vehicle’s transmission does. Your vehicle’s transmission is the link between the engine and the wheels, and the job of your fluid is to lubricate the vehicle’s gears and components, so they can work together without overheating inside the transmission system. In short, if your car doesn’t have the correct amount of transmission fluid, it won’t be able to shift properly. When you have an automatic transmission, the fluid also helps transfer power between the engine and the transmission. There are multiple types of transmission fluid, including:
- Automatic
- Manual
- Synthetic
- Traditional
If you aren’t sure which your car needs, our team is happy to help.
When to Change Transmission Fluid
Now that you know what transmission fluid is and how it works, you may be wondering when to change your transmission fluid. Fortunately, your transmission fluid doesn’t need to be changed as frequently as your motor oil, but it’s still important to keep an eye on it. Many manufacturers recommend changing your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. 
If you aren’t sure, it’s important to check manufacturer recommendations for your specific make and model. Plus, different kinds of driving conditions may cause your transmission to undergo additional stress. These factors include:
- Heavy towing
- City driving
- Harsh weather conditions
If you find yourself driving under these conditions often, you’ll probably want to check your transmission fluid more often, as these factors may cause more strain on your transmission and transmission fluid.
How Do I Know if My Transmission Fluid Is Low?
Typically, transmission overheating is a result of low fluid. So, how can you be sure your fluid isn’t getting low? There are quite a few signs that you can pay attention to. After all, you’ll want to make sure a leak doesn’t form in your transmission system. Signs of an overheating transmission include:
- Struggling with shifting gears
- Engine is revving higher than normal
- Feels as though you have no power
You can look for signs of leakage on the ground where you park, check the color, and look out for any burning smells as well. Plus, if your car has a dipstick, you can check your transmission fluid levels whenever you check your oil to be safe. If you notice any signs of low fluid levels, our expert technicians can catch the problem early and get you back on the road as soon as possible.
Change Your Transmission Fluid Today
Now that you know when to change your transmission oil, it’s time to make your service appointment at Ira Toyota Saco today. Our expert technicians are here to ensure that your drives around Saco, Portland, and Scarborough, Maine, go by smoothly for years to come. Give us a call today to schedule your appointment.