Changing your transmission fluid is one of the many recurring tasks that you’ll need to do to keep maintaining your car. The upkeep is different for many vehicles, and it’s important to know the correct information for the vehicle you own in terms of properly maintaining your transmission.

For more information on when is the right time to change your transmission fluid, contact a leading Toms River mechanic for a consultation.

If you’re not sure if you need a transmission fluid change right away, there are some best practices that you can follow in terms of preparing your car for the change, and ensuring that you’re not changing the fluid to early or too late.

MOST MANUFACTURERS SAY TO CHANGE YOUR TRANSMISSION FLUID EVERY 100,000 MILES.

The 100,000 mile rule is a good rule of thumb – although for some car owner, you may not have to change your transmission fluid this often.

The reason for this change is to flush out the fluid so that proper lubrication will occur inside the engine. If you don’t think your transmission fluid needs to be changed, but you aren’t sure, the manufacturer is a good place to receive information about your particular type of car.

CHECK THE TRANSMISSION FLUID MORE OFTEN IF YOU’RE DRIVING UNDER HIGH STRESS CONDITIONS.

Cars that are used from strenuous activities line consistently driving over rough terrain, racing, or hauling heavy loads are probably going to need more attention that those that are driven for everyday purposes.

This extra strain on the transmission means that the transmission needs to be operating at peak consistency in order for the car to be performing at its best. Changing the fluid more often will prolong the life of the car and provide you with better results as you continue to use it throughout the years.

WHAT DO YOU DO IF YOU DON’T KNOW THE LAST TIME YOUR TRANSMISSION FLUID WAS CHANGED?

It’s hard to know if you’re following best practices if you’re not sure the last time your transmission fluid was changed. If you know your car’s ownership history, you might be able to find out information from previous owners.

Taking your car to a good mechanic will also help you be able to tell whether or not it’s time to change the fluid. They should know based on the color of the fluid, and the way your car is currently running.

SHOULD YOU FORCE OUT TO OLD FLUID TO PUMP IN THE NEW?

There is some controversy over whether or not you should force out old transmission fluid and pump in new fluid. The practice you should take depends on the type of fluid that you are currently using, and the type of car and it’s needs.

Both a manufacturer, as well as a specialty mechanic will be able to tell you whether or not you should force out your old transmission fluid in order to pump in the new transmission fluid.

Holiday Service Center is an automotive repair station, gas station, and car service center. Contact us, your local Toms River Mechanics, for more information on regularly maintaining your car.