How do I check the oil in my automatic transmission? What is the ATF? What happens to the transmission oil if it is not changed? How to change ATF ?….
You will notice a smell of oily, which could indicate a problem in the automatic transmission. The dipstick at the end of your automatic transmission oil level can be used to check its oil level. It should smell like burnt toast, or have a brownish appearance. This is an indication that the oil feature has been removed. It should be replaced because it can’t provide the necessary oil for the gearbox. This can cause serious damage to your transmission. If you are lucky, the problem may have been caught before it caused serious damage to the transmission.
ATF is more durable than engine oil. ATF does not contain soot, burnt oil or condensation that could cause contamination. ATF contamination can be caused by friction wear on gears and bearings within the gearbox. Many transmissions include an internal filter that keeps the fluid clear. The transmissions of Japanese or Korean vehicles have either metal or plastic filters that can capture large particulates. These filters do a pretty good job. These particles will accelerate wear in gearboxes without filters because they circulate along with the fluid. This is why it is important to change the fluid.
Heat is the most important factor in the degrading of ATF. Heat is the most important factor in ATF degrading. The torque converter and hydraulic circuits pump the fluid and keep it moving in the transmission. Every gear it changes, the transmission produces more heat. The heat rate will increase if the gearbox is subject to more load.
ATFs are capable of enduring tens to thousands of kilometers at temperatures up to 200 degrees F (366.48 K). However, liquids that are heated above 220 degrees F will start to deteriorate quickly. The fluid’s life expectancy is calculated in hundreds of miles if it heats to 300 degrees F. The liquid that is more than 400 degrees F will explode in about 20-30 minutes.
ATF includes additives that increase oxidation stability, reduce foaming, and prevent corrosion. The protective additives may become less effective over time. This can cause fluid viscosity and lubricating qualities to deteriorate. The biggest reason for malfunctions in automatic transmissions is failure to change the oil on a timely basis. Experts recommend changing the transmission oil filter and oil every two to three years, or 40-60 thousand km. Transmission oil should be changed every 2500 km for vehicles that are used to tow or perform other heavy-duty work. For the most accurate information on transmission oil changes, refer to your vehicle’s manual.
Automatic Transmission Oil Control
First, check the fluid level. The fluid level must be at the same level as the dipstick’s “add” and “full” marks. The fluid level should be between the “add” and “full” marks on the dipstick. Transmissions that are low may stall or miss. This means that when you press down on the gas, the vehicle stops moving and the gear changes feel jerky. Pressure can lead to noise and leakage if the level is too high.
When the transmission is warm, check the ATF levels. This condition can be checked on most vehicles with the transmission in idle, or park. You can verify the accuracy of the measurement by moving the shift lever in each position.
Normal driving conditions do not result in oil loss from the transmission. Low oil levels are usually due to a leak. The transmission fluid might be low if the plug and shaft seals leak.
You should then check for oil oxidation. Sometimes, just smelling the oil is not enough. Place a few drops on a piece of paper towel. After waiting for 30 seconds, you can examine the drop. The ATF is good if the fluid is clear, diffused pink, red or light brown. If the liquid is clear and not dispersed, the ATF needs to be replaced.
The coolant has been mixed if the liquid appears to be the color of coffee and milk. It is possible that the ATF oil cooler is leaking and that the radiator coolant has been mixed with it. This is a serious problem that must be addressed immediately.
ATF may have overfilled the fluid if it is foamy or full bubbles. You could also be experiencing a blocked transmission or an incorrect ATF oil type.
Change of oil for automatic transmission
A more traditional method to replace ATF involves draining the oil, changing the oil and then renewing it after the oil has been used for a while. This is not the correct or effective way to replace ATF. The filter has not been changed and the magnet has not been cleaned.
It is necessary to drain the oil and remove the transmission sump. After the cover has been installed, it is necessary to clean the magnet, replace the crankcase gasket and filter, and fill the ATF with the appropriate amount. It is important to use the recommended ATF type by the vehicle manufacturer.
There are many ATFs available with different features and types. Transmission problems and damage can be caused by using the wrong ATF.
The transmission’s life expectancy is extended by regular replacement of the ATF. If the transmission fluid has not been changed in more than 150,000 mile, it might be wiser to not change the oil. Because of the chemical additives found in the new ATF oil, the accumulated dirt can be loosened from the gearbox and cause other problems. It is best to add fluid if the level is low.
