Transmission fluid keeps your gearbox running properly. It helps your car change gears smoothly and protects moving parts inside the system. It also reduces friction and heat, which can damage the transmission over time.
Why Changing It Is So Important
When the fluid is fresh, your transmission works quietly and shifts gears easily. But when it starts to break down, you might notice:
If you ignore these signs, the damage can get worse and repairing a worn-out transmission often costs thousands. Regular fluid checks are a small job that can help avoid major problems.
How Often Should It Be Changed?
There's no single answer that fits every car. It depends on the type of car, how it's driven, and what the manufacturer recommends.
As a basic guide:
Automatic transmissions
Usually every 100,000 to 160,000 km
Manual transmissions
Often every 50,000 to 100,000 km
However, if you drive in harsh conditions, such as towing, making frequent short trips, experiencing stop-and-go traffic, or driving in hot weather, your fluid wears out faster. If your car's fluid looks clean, you might not need a change yet. But regular checks mean you won't get caught off guard.
What Affects Fluid Life?
The way you drive and the environment in which you drive both make a difference. These are the main things that wear down transmission fluid:
Towing or carrying heavy loads
This puts more strain on the gearbox and heats the fluid faster
Driving in traffic
Stop-start driving leads to more gear changes, which creates more heat
Frequent short trips
Fluid doesn't have time to warm up and flow properly
Hot weather
High heat breaks down fluid quickly
Steep hills
Makes the transmission work harder, especially on automatics
These conditions are common in Victoria, which is why regular checks are more important here than in places with milder conditions and longer open roads.
What Happens During a Transmission Fluid Service?
Here's what you can expect when you bring your car in to Beyana Automotive:
Initial check
We warm up the vehicle, then check the fluid colour, level, and smell
Drain old fluid
We remove the worn-out fluid and dispose of it properly
Replace filter and gasket
If your car has a serviceable filter, we swap it out to keep debris out of the system
Clean the pan
We remove the pan, clean it, and check for metal shavings (a sign of wear)
Add new fluid
We refill using the exact type and amount your car needs, no guesswork
Test drive
We shift through all gears, then recheck the fluid to make sure it's at the correct level
Full Report
We will inform you of our actions, findings, and when to recheck it
We don't upsell. If your fluid still appears satisfactory, we'll confirm that. If it needs to be changed, we'll explain why.
How to Tell If Something's Wrong
You don't need tools or a mechanic's eye to notice early warning signs. These signs often show up first:
Gear changes feel off
hard shifting, slipping, or a slow response
Fluid looks dirty
check your dipstick (if your car has one); it should be red or pink
Strange smells
burnt fluid smells sharp and unpleasant
Dashboard warning light
some modern cars have a transmission warning light
Odd noises
clunking, whining, or grinding can be fluid-related
If you notice any of these issues, it's best to have your car inspected as soon as possible.
Common Mistakes Drivers Make
Avoid these to keep your gearbox running longer:
Quick Reference Table
| Check Item | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Fluid Colour | Red or pink = good. Brown, black or cloudy = not good |
| Fluid Smell | Should be clean, not burnt |
| Gear Behaviour | Smooth, no slipping, no delays |
| Driving Conditions | Towing, stop-start, hot weather = shorter fluid life |
| Last Service | If it's been over 50,000 km, it's time for a check |
| Fluid Type | Only use what the car maker recommends |
Final Thoughts
Transmission fluid doesn't get much attention, but it plays a big role in how your car drives and how long your transmission lasts. Don't wait for signs of trouble.
If you're unsure about your last service or think your car's not shifting the way it should, get in touch with Beyana Automotive. We'll thoroughly review it, provide you with honest feedback, and only recommend what's necessary.
Book your transmission fluid check today; it's a small step that can prevent big problems later.