When to Change Transmission Fluid?

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A close up of a transmission fluid change at our Toyota dealer in Manchester NH.

Regardless of the type of vehicle you drive, you’ll want to make sure your transmission stays in good shape by periodically changing your transmission fluid. If you’re wondering when to change transmission fluid, we at Ira Toyota of Manchester have the answer!

Drivers near Amherst, Manchester and Derry can read our convenient guide for an overview of proper fluid change intervals, as well as warning signs that your transmission fluid may need servicing. Learn when your transmission fluid needs to be changed below and feel free to contact us if you have any questions!

When to Change Transmission Fluid?

 

  • Manual: Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles
  • Automatic: Every 60,000 to 100,000 miles

 

 

Transmission FluidIt’s important to change your transmission fluid, but the type of transmission you have affects your ideal changing interval. If you drive manual, most manufacturers will recommend changing your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. If you have automatic, you can typically boost that range up to 60,000 to 100,000 miles.

There’s no harm in changing your fluid early. Drivers will manual transmissions who put heavy-duty use into their vehicles may want to change their fluid every 15,000 miles. Likewise, changing your automatic transmission fluid every 30,000 miles may be necessary under some circumstances.

At the end of the day, consulting your owner’s manual or a trained technician is the best course of action to find the precise interval for your vehicle.

What is Transmission Fluid?

Transmission fluid lubricates the various moving parts in your car’s transmission to boost its performance. If you have an automatic transmission, it also acts as a coolant while also helping transfer engine power to your transmission.

Just like your engine oil, over time, the transmission fluid will deteriorate. As it becomes dirty and clogged with debris, it’s ability to keep your transmission lubricated and help transfer power will be compromised. Changing your transmission fluid is an economical way to keep your systems at the top of their game and avoid complex, costly repairs.

Signs You Need to Change Transmission Fluid

 

The best way to know whether you need to change your transmission fluid is to check it yourself-or have a trained technician do it for you. Fresh transmission fluid will typically be bright red, and if yours looks dark brown or blackened, you may want to have your transmission checked out.

A few other signs you need new transmission fluid include:

 

  • Difficult Shifting
  • Grinding Nose While Shifting
  • Slipping Gears
  • Unexpected Surging (Forward or Backward)

 

 

If you notice these signals, get your vehicle to a service center right away to have your transmission fluid inspected and refilled if necessary.

Schedule Your Transmission Fluid Change Today!

We hope this guide gives you a better sense of when to change transmission fluid. Pay attention to all the warning signs and be sure to follow your manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule.

If you need your transmission fluid changed, feel free to
schedule an appointment at our service center. At Ira Toyota of Manchester, our dedicated service professionals are committed to delivering reliable and speedy maintenance to drivers all across Amherst, Manchester and Derry!

Read More: Signs of Low Transmission Fluid

Read More: Automatic Transmission Problems Shifting Gears

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