What are the effects of not changing transmission oil for a long time?
4 Answers
The effects of not changing transmission oil for a long time include: 1. Increased gearshift jerking; 2. Jerky movements while driving or abnormal noises from the transmission when the car is cold. The recommended replacement interval for transmission oil is approximately 40,000 to 80,000 kilometers. Transmission oil is a lubricant used to maintain the cleanliness of the gear system, and its functions are: 1. Ensuring normal operation of the transmission; 2. Extending the lifespan of the transmission components; 3. Providing effective lubrication at low temperatures; 4. Reducing oil loss under harsh operating conditions. The transmission consists of: the gear transmission mechanism and the gear shift control mechanism. Based on structure, transmission oil can be divided into: automatic transmission oil and manual transmission oil.
Last year, I neglected to change the transmission fluid, and as a result, the car would often jerk when shifting gears, as if the gears were fighting each other. When the transmission fluid deteriorates, its lubrication effectiveness decreases, and sludge builds up inside, increasing friction and wear. Over time, the fluid temperature rises, affecting heat dissipation and leading to delayed shifts or severe jerking. You might also experience increased fuel consumption. If the transmission overheats and burns out, it could cost a fortune to repair. The mechanic told me that automatic transmission cars require extra attention because the fluid controls the hydraulic system, and not changing it could even corrode the pipelines. Now, I make sure to change the fluid on time—every 60,000 kilometers—using the manufacturer-recommended product. Remember, delaying the replacement not only damages the car but also threatens driving safety.
As a veteran driver with twenty years of experience, I've seen many friends' cars develop issues due to neglected transmission fluid changes. For instance, during a gathering, a buddy's SUV suddenly couldn't shift gears midway, and after much hassle, it turned out to be sludge clogging the filter. Transmission fluid is like blood—over time, it oxidizes and thickens, losing its cleaning and cooling capabilities. This accelerates internal component wear, and in severe cases, requires a full transmission teardown for major repairs, easily costing over ten thousand. Manual transmissions aren't spared either, with synchronizers potentially failing. So don't skip the hassle—follow the manufacturer's manual and change the fluid regularly. I change mine every five years, avoiding major overhauls and saving a bundle on maintenance.
I recommend that new car owners pay special attention to transmission fluid changes. If you drive an automatic transmission car, aging fluid can lead to rough shifting, such as delayed starts or sudden gear drops, and may also increase fuel consumption. Deteriorated fluid accumulates impurities, damaging the valve body and control module. In severe cases, you might break down on the road and need to call a tow truck, which is both troublesome and expensive. Regularly check if the fluid turns black or has a burnt smell, and replace it immediately. Generally, change it every 40,000 to 80,000 kilometers depending on the car model, and find a reliable repair shop. Simple maintenance can prevent major failures and extend your car's lifespan.
