On average, your transmission fluid needs to be changed every 30,000 miles. We can do that here at MD Auto Repair. Transmission maintenance is just one of the services we offer here at our shop. Aside from the mileage milestone of 30,000 miles, your transmission fluid will tell you that it needs to be changed based on its color. Transmission fluid changes color as it ages, and once it reaches a certain hue, it must be changed in order to avoid damaging your transmission.
BRIGHT RED/RED
Your transmission fluid should always be bright red or red. It should also always be translucent. The transmission fluid has two separate responsibilities. First, it lubricates the transmission to ensure the parts don’t overheat. Second, it acts as a hydraulic fluid to help the transmission change gears. Bright red or red and translucent transmission fluid is in excellent shape and is performing its job perfectly. You do not need to change your transmission fluid if it is bright red or red.
LIGHT BROWN/ORANGE
You also don’t need to change your transmission fluid if it is light brown or orange. Provided it is still translucent and one of these colors, it is still doing its job effectively. It is important, however, to plan for a transmission fluid flush and refill soon. The light brown or orange color may indicate the transmission fluid is still good, but it is on the road to getting too old.
BROWN/DARK BROWN
Once the transmission fluid turns brown or dark brown, it is oxidizing and needs to be replaced as soon as possible. Transmission fluid is usually this color once you’ve driven 30,000 miles. Oxidized transmission fluid is filled with tiny air bubbles that prevent it from protecting the transmission. You may also notice that your vehicle is having problems shifting gears. The gear shifts are no longer smooth and you may hear strange sounds coming from the transmission.
BLACK/PINK
Finally, black or pink transmission fluid is seriously damaging your transmission. Black and opaque fluid is no longer protecting the transmission and causing serious transmission problems. In fact, your transmission may become unresponsive if it is filled with black fluid.
Pink transmission fluid is an indication that there is a serious breach between your cooling system and transmission. The reason why the fluid has turned pink is that it is being diluted by engine coolant. This, too, will seriously damage your transmission.
MD Auto Repair is the best auto service shop in Kansas City, MO, so give us a call today if it’s time for a transmission service. Remember, every 30,000 miles is a good rule of thumb.
