Nowadays, we are able to drive our vehicles with much added ease, providing for a more comfortable driving experience and one where we can enjoy increased fuel efficiency. One of the things we have to thank for this is the development of automatic transmission systems, which work to shift the gears within our vehicles automatically and eradicate the need for us to do so ourselves anymore. The components within these systems are highly complex and require a specific type of fluid so that they are able to work together effectively. Automatic transmission fluid plays an essential role within your vehicle’s transmission system; and in this article, we’ll be going through the most important aspects of it, so that you can gain an insight on one of the most important fluids in your automobile.
What is Automatic Transmission Fluid? What Does it Do?
Automatic transmission fluid is what cools and lubricates the components within your automatic transmission system. This automatic transmission system is what frees you from having to change your gears manually, converting power from your engine to your steering system and allowing you to steer the vehicle with ease. The fluid lengthens the life of the internal components and ensures that your vehicle is able to function efficiently.
Why is this important?
Automatic transmission fluid protects the components within your transmission system and prevents them from overheating. Without it, your vehicle would not be able to manage the high amounts of heat energy produced, and the transmission would essentially fail. Using the incorrect transmission fluid would also cause your transmission system to degenerate if left inside the vehicle for too long. Needless to say, it’s important to ensure that you have the right type of fluid topped up.
What Are the Signs of Using Incompatible Fluid?
Unfortunately, it is impossible for there to be a single type of automatic transmission fluid which is suitable for use in all automatic transmission systems. This is because each transmission manufacturer will design their system using a variety of different frictional materials. Only a transmission fluid with the right type of additives will be able to satisfy the frictional requirements of that particular transmission system.
There are a number of noticeable signs that you are using the incorrect type of automatic transmission fluid, some of which may include longer transmission shifts, problems changing gears, or strange sounds coming from your engine. If you are experiencing any of the previously mentioned symptoms, then it’s important for you to take your vehicle to a mechanic right away. On the other hand, the computer systems on board many modern vehicles tend to compensate for poor gear shifting, meaning that you could remain fully unaware of a problem with your automatic transmission fluid, as you wouldn’t experience the aforementioned symptoms. For this reason, it is imperative that you take your vehicle in for servicing, so that your mechanic can keep an eye on the aspects of your vehicle and ensure all the right fluids are in place.
How Can I Remove the Incompatible Fluid?
Using an incompatible automatic transmission fluid for your vehicle can have devastating effects. So, if you want to reduce as much of the damage as possible that results from leaving an incorrect type of fluid to work within your vehicle, you should seek to arrange a transmission fluid flush for your automobile. This can be easily performed by your local mechanic, who will use a flushing machine to draw out all the fluid, then replace it with a more compatible type of fluid.
You may have also heard of a transmission change- but don’t make the mistake of getting the two confused! A transmission change will only drain the pan of automatic transmission fluid and replace the filter. Such a process may not get rid of all the fluid entirely, and as such, remnants could still exist. This service is more so used for the removal of built up contaminants in the fluid over replacing the fluid altogether. Your mechanic will be able to determine the right automatic transmission fluid to use for your vehicle, or you should be able to find it for yourself in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
Choose European Prestige Auto Service for your Vehicle’s Transmission Service Needs
Have you been experiencing decreased drivability with your vehicle as of late? Perhaps you’ve noticed some of the previously mentioned symptoms occurring, including strange noises, problems changing gears or a delay in the movement of your car? If you want to have the problem diagnosed and dealt with effectively, then trust in European Prestige Auto Service to handle the task in a prompt and efficient manner.
At European Prestige Auto Service, we consist of a team of well-versed auto technicians who are highly experienced in the servicing of a range of high-class European automobiles. We are pleased to work with a range of superiorly engineered vehicles on a daily basis, hailing from brands such as BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Alfa Romeo, and many more. We know these vehicles like the back of our hands, so you can bet that we are fully capable of providing you with the service you need, and at a price that you can justify moreover.
Interested in getting the best service possible for your European vehicle? Contact European Prestige Auto Service today on 0402 866 180 or 08 9418 2765 and have your needs met by our expert technicians in our fully equipped workshop facility.
