Automatic Transmission Maintenance Mini-Course

Sep 01, 2022

Tag：automatic transmission, torque converter, oil pan drain plug, oil pump

Automatic transmissions are by far the most complex mechanical components in automobiles. They contain mechanical systems, hydraulic systems, electrical systems and computer controls, all of which work together in perfect harmony. This article will help you learn something about transmission maintenance.

Transmission fluid should be changed regularly. This interval may vary from 15,000 miles to 100,000 miles. Most experts recommend changing the fluid and filter every 25,000 miles.

Few transmissions have drain plugs to drain old fluid. To drain the fluid, the technician removes the transmission oil pan. This is a fairly messy job and generally not recommended doing it by yourself. Even if the transmission has a drain plug, the only way to replace the transmission filter is to remove the pan. When the pan is down, the technician can inspect for metal shavings and other debris that indicate an impending transmission problem.

In most cases, only about half of the oil can be removed from the unit during these transfer services.That is because most of the oil is in the torque converter and cooler lines and cannot be removed without significant disassembly. The fluid change intervals are based on the fact that some old fluid remains in the system.

When servicing your transmission, be sure to refill it with the Porper fluid. Each transmission manufacturer has their own recommendations for the proper fluid to use, and the internal components are designed for that specific formulation. Your owner's manual will tell you which fluid you need. Naturally, the owner's manual will try to convince you to use only the manufacturer's brand of fluid, but they will also provide you with the specifications for the fluid. Aftermarket products can usually be used if they indicate on their containers that they meet or exceed the specifications for a particular type of transmission fluid.