5 Things You Must Know About Automatic Transmission Servicing

Automatic transmission servicing is very important in an automatic transmission vehicle and has to be conducted at a periodic interval of time. Depending upon the speed of the vehicle, the automatic transmission system helps the car to switch between gears and provides the power needed it needs to do so. All of it is made possible by the transmission fluid in the automatic transmission system as it helps in cooling and lubricating the internal parts of the transmission system. 
Automatic Transmission Servicing

During automatic transmission servicing, the transmission fluid, pan gasket, and the filter are replaced so that a vehicle can enjoy an error-free ride. Some other important facts related to the servicing of an automatic transmission system are listed here for better understanding: 

1. Importance of servicing the transmission system 

It is a clearly established fact that 90% of all automatic transmission failures happen due to overheating and most of the times, the transmission fluids can be blamed for the same. Hence, they should be replaced whenever it is due, to enhance the life of the automatic transmission system. Therefore, during regular maintenance, automatic transmission servicing is a must and should be carried out and the fluid replaced accordingly. This will also help in sustaining the overall health of the vehicle. 

2. Common symptoms for replacing the fluid 

There are certain conditions that can be symptomatic of automatic transmission failure in a vehicle. These conditions can be ascertained during an automatic transmission servicing and the needful must be done to restore the transmission system. The most common type of issues that one can face regarding this system can be related to a noisy transmission, vehicle stoppage when it goes up or down a steep hill, engine light not turning on, etc. All of these factors point towards replacing the fluid in the transmission and hence, it should be done at the earliest. 

3. When should the transmission fluid be replaced 

Typically, transmission fluids should be replaced after an interval of 40,000 miles. However, during an automatic transmission servicing, it can be found out if there is any fluid beneath the car which can be attended to at the earliest. However, many manufacturers recommend servicing the same from 30,000 miles onwards. The service interval can also be between 60,000 miles to 1,00,000 miles. If the fluid is changed prior to that, there won’t be any harm to the vehicle rather it can only be beneficial in the long run. 
Automatic Transmission Servicing

4. The average cost involved in transmission servicing 

For an automatic transmission servicing, an owner may have to shell out on an average $150 for a complete service. However, the price range can also vary between $125 to $250, depending upon the model and make of the vehicle. Hence, it can even cost up to twice the amount of a complete fluid change due to the additional fluid that may have to be used during the service. The reason being during a fluid change, five to seven quarts are needed whereas, during service, 12 to 22 quarts may be required. This is the reason for the increase in price. 

5. Effects of not replacing the transmission fluid in time 

Not changing the transmission fluid in time can result in deposition of contaminants like metal particles and their transmission which can have a bad impact on the transmission’s life. A hefty payment may have to be incurred later on towards its service. 

Therefore, we have learned that proper and timely servicing of an automatic transmission is highly desired to keep a vehicle healthy and have a smooth gear shift process. Hence, we must make sure of it at all times. 

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