Summary of "Can Changing your Transmission Fluid Cause Damage?"
Automatic Transmission Fluid Maintenance: Common Questions and Myths
The video, hosted by ChrisFix, addresses common questions and myths about automatic transmission fluid maintenance. ChrisFix emphasizes that transmissions are expensive and often overlooked when it comes to regular maintenance, especially with the rise of sealed transmissions that lack easy access for fluid checks.
When to Change Transmission Fluid
- The best source of information is the vehicle’s owner’s manual, which varies by make and model.
- Some vehicles recommend inspecting fluid every 15,000 miles, while others suggest changing it every 60,000 miles or more.
- Visual inspection is important:
- Healthy fluid is bright pink.
- Old or burnt fluid turns dark, may smell burnt, and can contain metallic particles indicating damage.
Checking Transmission Fluid
- For vehicles with a dipstick:
- Check fluid warm, with the engine idling and the vehicle in park.
- For sealed transmissions (common in newer cars like Jaguars and Ford Fiestas):
- Fluid levels can be checked and filled via specific bolts under the vehicle.
- These transmissions are not truly sealed despite the name.
Can Changing Transmission Fluid Cause Damage?
- Generally, changing fluid does not damage transmission components.
- However, if the fluid is very old, burnt, and contains clutch material (metallic particles), flushing the fluid might cause slipping.
- This happens because old fluid contaminants can sometimes help worn clutches engage, and removing them suddenly with a flush can reveal clutch wear.
Fluid Change vs. Fluid Flush
- Fluid Change:
- Drains about 40-50% of the fluid and refills it, leaving some old fluid in the system.
- Fluid Flush:
- Replaces all the fluid by pumping new fluid in and old fluid out through the transmission cooler lines.
- Flushing is safer when the fluid is in good condition.
- Flushing burnt, old fluid can dislodge debris that clogs valve body passages, leading to shifting problems or gear loss.
Which Transmission Fluid to Use
- Always follow the owner’s manual.
- Different transmissions require specific fluid types (e.g., Mercon V, Type F, synthetic blends).
- Using the wrong fluid can damage the transmission.
ChrisFix concludes by encouraging viewers to follow their owner’s manual instructions, inspect their fluid regularly, and not be afraid to change fluid when needed. The video aims to clear up misinformation and provide reliable guidance on transmission fluid maintenance.
Speakers in the Video
- ChrisFix (main and only speaker)
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