Automatic Transmission Oil
Automatic Transmissions (Gearbox) have a lubricating fluid and filter in them. Like engine oil they get dirty and worn out. Most transmission problems cannot be fixed by the vehicle owner. Too many pieces of specialised equipment and tools are needed.
Problems show up as:
There are two types of problems. Put simple, your vehicle won’t move/go into gear or it won’t move smoothly (changes poorly or not at all).
Solutions
- Check the fluid level. If low, top it up. This is only a temporary fix as it means you have a leak.
- Replace the fluid and filter. This can be complicated as a lot of filters are located inside the transmission itself.
- (Most likely) Change the fluid and/or the filter. Specialised equipment needed. It is recommended that you have this done on a regular basis. About everything 30,000km. The worst case: A complete tear down, recondition and rebuild will be needed.
Hints
- Get your technician to check the fluid level and condition at the each service (the good ones already do this).
- Towing can put stress on your transmission.
- Before setting out, have your technician check it out. After all, sitting by the beach is better than sitting by the side of the road.