Does Your Vehicle Need Transmission Fluid?

Purpose and Function

Maybe you’re wondering if your vehicle needs transmission fluid. The ASE-certified technicians at Integrity Automotive in Williamstown, New Jersey, are happy to discuss this with you. Let’s begin by understanding why fluid is necessary. Automatic transmission fluid lubricates the components inside the unit. This minimizes the friction that causes damage and generates heat. Also, the liquid absorbs quite a bit of heat, helping to keep the transmission unit cool. Therefore, you need an adequate amount of automatic transmission fluid to protect your auto’s unit and prevent costly damage.

Signs Your Vehicle May Need Fluid

Although some manufacturers and mechanics debate the necessity and frequency of changing transmission fluid, it’s indisputable that your automobile needs additional fluid if it’s low. How will you know? First, it’s best practice to monitor the fluid level as part of routine preventive maintenance care. Second, some tell-tale signs may signal the need for fluid. For instance, a low fluid level can make the transmission overheat. You may detect a burning smell, a lack of power, or notice smoke. If you do, you should stop driving and allow the unit to cool to minimize damage. Further, you find that you have slipping gears. This occurs when your vehicle moves between gears unexpectedly. Another symptom is a delay between the time you press the accelerator and that of the car moving when the “drive” mode is engaged. Finally, you may experience trouble with shifts or hear grinding as the gears shift. While there are other sources of transmission trouble, one of the first areas to investigate if you’re noticing one of these signs is the fluid level.

Local, Reputable Help for Your Transmission

In business since 1999, Integrity Automotive lives up to our name by providing honest, reputable services. Whether you need assistance with checking/adding automatic transmission fluid, a fluid change, a fluid flush, or another transmission repair, the team at Integrity Automotive can help. We stand behind our work with a 24-month/24,000-mile warranty. As a bonus, we have a 12,000-square-foot, 12-bay state-of-the-art facility to best meet your transmission repair needs.