This is one of the most commonly asked questions regarding transmission maintenance. In reality, it’s not a matter of if you should replace your transmission fluid, but when. Over time transmission fluid becomes dirty and is less effective at keeping the transmission cooled and lubricated. To determine how often you should replace your vehicle’s transmission fluid, refer to the owner’s manual or ask your transmission repair provider in Washington DC . While there’s no harm with frequent fluid changes, putting off a transmission flush and fluid refill can cause major problems down the road.

Although you should let a professional change your car’s transmission fluid, you can (and should) check the fluid level and condition on a regular basis. If the fluid smells burnt or looks very dirty, visit a transmission repair shop in Washington DC for service. You should also bring your car in if you notice leaking transmission fluid.

The automatic transmission helped revolutionize the automotive industry in the mid-twentieth century. Not only are automatic transmissions much more comfortable and much easier to operate than manuals, but they are also easier to repair and less prone to wear and tear. However, that doesn’t mean automatic transmissions are indestructible. On the contrary, your automatic transmission requires very specific care if you wish to avoid major transmission repair in Washington DC. The following tips should help keep your automatic transmission in great shape and out of the transmission repair shop .

Check Fluid Level and Condition Regularly
Transmission fluid is the lifeblood of your automatic transmission. To keep your transmission in tip-top shape, check the fluid level and condition on a regular basis. Refer to your owner’s manual to learn whether your car should be in park or neutral, and what temperature the transmission should be. When checking the dipstick, smell the fluid and note if it smells burned or like any other fluid, such as gasoline or motor oil. Wipe the fluid off onto a piece of white paper or cloth and check the color against a fresh fluid sample. If the fluid looks very dirty, visit a transmission repair shop in your area for a flush and refill. Changing transmission fluid is not as simple as changing engine oil and should be handled by a transmission service technician.

Seek Transmission Repair as Needed
Your transmission will tell you when something is wrong, you just need to learn how to recognize the signs and symptoms of transmission problems. For example, if you notice that the transmission is leaking fluid you should visit a repair shop right away. Also be on the lookout for any unusual noises, smells, or sensations while driving. Loud bangs, grinding noises, the smell of burning metal, rough shifts, delayed shift engagement, and a dashboard warning light are some of the most obvious signs that your transmission may need repair. The longer you put off transmission repair in Washington DC, the bigger the problem will get and the more expensive it will be to repair.