Your car wouldn’t run without transmission fluid. In fact, it’s one of the most important fluids in your car. But what is transmission fluid? What does it do? And how do you know when you need to change it? Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about transmission fluid!
What is a transmission?
Your car’s transmission is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. The engine produces rotational force, or torque, which the transmission then converts into linear force, or thrust. This allows your car to move forwards (or backwards, in the case of a reverse gear).
There are two types of transmissions: automatic and manual.
Automatic transmissions use a complex system of gears, clutches, and fluid to automatically change gears as you drive.
Manual transmissions require the driver to manually change gears using a clutch pedal.
What is transmission fluid?
Transmission fluid is a special type of oil that helps to lubricate, cool, and clean the moving parts of your transmission. Over time, transmission fluid can become dirty or low, which can cause problems with your transmission.
Transmission fluid is made up of a variety of different chemicals, including base oils, additives, and inhibitors.
Base oils make up the majority of the fluid and help to lubricate the transmission.
Additives are used to improve the performance of the fluid, while inhibitors help to prevent corrosion and wear.
What are the benefits of transmission fluid?
Transmission fluid has a number of important functions, including:
- Lubricating the moving parts of the transmission
- Cooling the transmission
- Cleaning the transmission
- Helping to seal the transmission
- Protecting the transmission from wear and tear
- Enhancing the performance of the transmission
It’s important to check your transmission fluid level regularly and to change it according to your car’s maintenance schedule. You can usually find the location of the dipstick on your transmission fluid reservoir (usually located near the engine).
How do you know when you need to change your transmission fluid?
There are a few signs that you may need to change your transmission fluid, including:
- Your transmission is slipping gears
- Your car is shifting hard or jerking
- Your transmission fluid is low or dirty
- Your car is making strange noises
- Transmission fluid leaking under the car.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to take your car to a mechanic for a diagnosis. They can help you determine if you need to change your transmission fluid and, if so, how to do it properly.
Changing your transmission fluid is an important part of maintaining your car. If you have any questions about transmission fluid or how to change it, stop by Master Muffler Clearfield. Our expert mechanics are always happy to help!
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