Your Guide to Replacing Your Vehicle’s Transmission Fluid

When you own a car, you know you have some important responsibilities to maintain and keep it running well. Certain parts and systems will need regular attention, while others will not require frequent maintenance. Still, each component is vital to the health of your vehicle. Neglecting any of these can lead to problems. Take the transmission fluid, for example. Doing a transmission fluid change on time can spare you a lot of stress and expensive repairs down the road. 

What the Fluid Does

A car’s transmission is one of the most vital systems in the vehicle. The transmission ensures that the correct amount of power is going to the wheels at any speed. A properly functioning transmission will help the car seamlessly shift between gears, including reverse. Transmission fluid is a critical part of your car’s transmission. This fluid has different types, but each one lubricates the metal parts and bearings inside the gearbox. This keeps the parts from grinding against one another, which would eventually lead to a high-cost repair job.

Signs That the Car Needs More Fluid

Replacing transmission fluid is essential for the safe and effective operation of your vehicle. There are some clues to tell you that it’s time to take your car to a reliable auto service center for a transmission fluid change. If the fluid is low, you may smell something burning or hear humming or clicking noises. As you drive around, it may be difficult to shift between gears. The car may also shake as it’s in motion, and it may also jerk or lurch suddenly. 

What You’ll Pay

A transmission fluid change will be a bigger hit to your pocketbook than an oil change. But don’t let the cost sway you from doing this. This service is vital to keeping your car in good condition and avoiding more serious issues in the future. The price tag will vary depending on where you take it and how much fluid your vehicle needs. Depending on the types of fluid available, you will pay anywhere from $80 to $250. 

How Often Your Car Will Need It

Along with the cost of this service, you will want to be aware of when you should take care of this maintenance. Again, this will vary, depending on vehicle types. Manufacturers recommend that you or a professional perform this service every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. However, if you notice any of the signs and symptoms of low fluid, take your car in for maintenance right away. 

Fluid Choices

Transmission fluid is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Different vehicles will require different types. When you take your car in for a transmission fluid change, there are essentially three options: Type F, Dexron III/Mercon, and HFM. 

Type F fluid is rarely used today, as it is mostly for older vehicles. Dexron III/Mercon is the most common. GM and Ford vehicles use it, as do many non-American-made models. HFM, or highly friction modified, fluid is used in Honda, Toyota, and Hyundai vehicles, among others. The cost of these fluids differs but will be cheaper if you perform the service yourself. 

If you have neglected a transmission fluid change for your car, now is the time to bring it in for a service at Reed-Lallier Chevrolet in Fayetteville, North Carolina. The cost of staying on schedule for this maintenance is much less than repairing or replacing the transmission. Let our team help you understand the different fluid types and select the best one for your car.