You may know how to change your engine’s oil, but maintaining your vehicle’s transmission is a whole different ball game. Many car owners mistakenly believe that their transmission doesn’t require service. This couldn’t be further from the truth! Like any other car component, the transmission will break down without fluid changes or flushes. A replacement could cost you anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000, so it pays to understand transmission maintenance!

Transmission Fluid

The first question people usually have is whether they need to change their transmission fluid. The answer is yes – most likely. You may not need to change the fluid if you switch vehicles often or if you do not drive long distances. While oil changes are needed every 3,000 to 10,000 miles depending on the car, you only need to change your transmission fluid every 50,000 to 150,000 miles.

Consult Your Manual

The only way to know exactly when you should change the transmission fluid is to look in the vehicle manual. The manual will outline the recommended frequency of flushes or fluid changes as well as how you can access the transmission fluid and use a dipstick to check fluid levels. It will also explain what type of fluid you need.

Assess Fluid Quantity and Quality

If you can easily access the transmission fluid in your vehicle, check that it is at the right level. You’ll want to get a fill if it is too low, since transmission fluid keeps the gears in your transmission operational and prevents overheating. Be careful not to overfill the fluid either. You’ll also want to assess the color and smell of the fluid. Most transmission fluid is a bright red color and smells sweet, although this is not always the case. Signs of deterioration include murky or dark color, metal particles mixed into the fluid and an unpleasant burning odor. If you notice any of these warning signs, bring your vehicle to a professional right away.

The Flush Vs. Drain Debate

A fluid drain and transmission flush are two separate services that are often confused for each other. During a drain, old fluid is – you guessed it! – drained out of the vehicle and replaced with newer fluid. However, it’s impossible for all the old fluid to drain out, which means you end up with a mixture of old and new fluid. By comparison, a flush is a more aggressive service where a pump is used to completely remove all the old fluid and replace it with new fluid. While this may seem more effective, a transmission flush can also dislodge gunk and grime within your car and cause other problems. Neither service is “better” than the other. The choice usually comes down to preference and the operation of your specific vehicle. If you are having trouble deciding between the two, consult your manual or manufacturer’s guidelines and discuss your options with an automotive professional.

Ways to Prevent Transmission Damage

While the average transmission will last for a long time, you have to do your part to maximize its life. Take the following precautions to save yourself repair or replacement costs down the road:

• Avoid shifting gears while accelerating or decelerating
• Drive in the correct gear if you have a manual transmission
• Limit braking and driving in stop-and-go traffic
• Do not tow heavy loads
• Fix the engine cooling system when needed
• Change the transmission filter when dirty
• Ask your mechanic to check the transmission during routine maintenance
• Stay on top of all vehicle service

Have Your Transmission Checked at Toyota of Seattle

Have you noticed that your transmission fluid smells odd or your vehicle is struggling to shift gears? Don’t let the problem spiral out of control – bring your vehicle in for service at Toyota of Seattle instead! Our technicians are well-versed in all Toyota makes and models and understand the manufacturer requirements for your particular vehicle. We also have access to Toyota’s automatic transmission fluid so your car can perform at optimal efficiency. Schedule your service online today or call us at 206-382-8812 to make an appointment.