Why Does the Transmission Need Maintenance?
2 Answers
Automatic transmission maintenance is primarily aimed at cleaning the interior of the transmission. Since the inside of an automatic transmission is mostly composed of oil passages, blockages can hinder normal operation and potentially damage the transmission. Additionally, cleaning the valve body is essential. A dirty valve body can cause jerky gear shifts, slower shifting, and increased fuel consumption. Therefore, changing the transmission oil every 3 years or 60,000 kilometers is a wise choice. Maintenance typically involves replacing the following: 1. Engine Oil (Mineral Oil, Semi-Synthetic, Full Synthetic): Replacing engine oil at 40,000 kilometers is a primary task. Regular car maintenance (every 7,000-10,000 kilometers) also requires oil changes, and the 40,000-kilometer mark is no exception. Engine oils come in mineral, semi-synthetic, and full synthetic varieties, with quality increasing in that order. Semi-synthetic oil can last for 5,000-7,000 kilometers between changes. If you have fewer maintenance sessions within a year, opting for full synthetic oil, which offers better quality, is advisable. 2. Transmission Oil: Most car maintenance manuals recommend changing transmission oil every 2 years or 40,000 kilometers. Transmission oil is typically replaced during major maintenance sessions. The transmission acts as the link between the clutch and the driveshaft, with very precise internal gears. Frequent gear shifts can cause the transmission oil to degrade, reducing its cooling and lubricating properties and making the transmission more susceptible to damage. Hence, it's recommended to follow the maintenance manual for transmission oil changes. 3. Coolant: The replacement interval for car coolant is generally 2 years, aligning well with the 40,000-kilometer major maintenance cycle. Coolant usually comes in pink or blue colors and is relatively inexpensive. It's advisable to replace it according to the car's maintenance manual, as vehicles typically require coolant top-ups after 40,000 kilometers of driving.
Having driven for over a decade, I understand that transmission maintenance is essential primarily because the fluid degrades over time. Automatic transmission fluid oxidizes and turns black with prolonged use, its additives break down, and lubrication effectiveness plummets, leading to increased friction between gears and clutch plates, accelerating wear. Worn components cause rough shifting and noticeable jerking; long-term neglect can result in complete transmission failure, with repairs often costing tens of thousands. Maintenance also includes cleaning the filter and inspecting seals to prevent debris buildup that could disrupt the hydraulic system. Regular fluid changes, typically every 40,000 to 80,000 kilometers depending on the vehicle model, significantly extend component lifespan and avoid roadside breakdowns. After making it a habit, I’ve noticed smoother, quieter driving and saved on unexpected expenses.
