Hey y’all, it’s your boy Matthew Taylor here.
So I’ve had a few mishaps in my day when it comes to car maintenance, but the one that still makes me chuckle to this day was the time I decided to change the transmission fluid on my old pickup truck.
Now, I consider myself a pretty handy guy, but I must have missed the memo about not mixing old and new transmission fluid.
Long story short, I ended up with a truck that wouldn’t shift out of first gear and a hefty repair bill to go along with it.
Live and learn, right?
But that brings me to the topic at hand: should you add new transmission fluid to old? It’s a question that I’m sure a lot of us have asked ourselves at one point or another, whether we’re trying to save a few bucks or just trying to extend the life of our ride.
Well, I’m here to help answer that question and give you a little bit of insight into the inner workings of your transmission.
Table of Contents
What Does Transmission Fluid Do?
First things first, let’s talk about what transmission fluid does. In short, it helps keep your transmission running smoothly and efficiently.
It helps lubricate the gears, bearings, and other moving parts, which helps reduce wear and tear. It also helps cool the transmission, as it absorbs heat from the moving parts.
Without proper levels of transmission fluid, your transmission could experience some serious problems.
So, Should You Add New Transmission Fluid to Old?
In general, the answer is no.
Mixing new and old transmission fluid can cause some serious issues. The old fluid can be contaminated with dirt, debris, and metal shavings, which can clog up the transmission filter and cause problems down the line.
The old fluid can also be burnt, which means it has broken down and lost its ability to lubricate and cool effectively. Mixing new and old fluid can dilute the effectiveness of the new fluid and cause it to break down faster.
It’s generally recommended to do a complete flush of the transmission fluid, which involves draining the old fluid out and replacing it with new fluid.
This will help ensure that you’re starting with a clean slate and that your transmission is getting the best possible lubrication and protection.
However, if you’re in a pinch and you don’t have the time or money for a complete flush, you can top off the fluid with new fluid as long as the old fluid is still in good condition.
Just be sure to check your owner’s manual for the proper procedure and the recommended type of fluid to use.
How Often Should You Change Your Transmission Fluid?
Now that we’ve covered the basics, you might be wondering how often you should change your transmission fluid.
The answer will depend on a few factors, such as the make and model of your vehicle, your driving habits, and the type of transmission fluid you’re using.
In general, it’s recommended to change your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, or every two to four years, whichever comes first.
Again, it’s always a good idea to consult your owner’s manual or a professional mechanic for the most accurate information.
FAQ
Can I Mix Different Types of Transmission Fluid?
It’s generally not recommended to mix different types of transmission fluid.
Each type of fluid is formulated specifically for certain types of transmissions and can have different properties and performance characteristics.
Mixing different types of fluid can cause compatibility issues and potentially harm your transmission. It’s always best to use the type of fluid specified by the manufacturer of your vehicle.
Can I Use Automatic Transmission Fluid in a Manual Transmission?
No, you should not use automatic transmission fluid in a manual transmission. Manual transmissions typically require a different type of fluid with specific friction properties to properly lubricate the gears and other moving parts.
Using the wrong type of fluid can cause problems with shifting and overall performance of the transmission.
Is It OK to Drive with Low Transmission Fluid?
It’s not recommended to drive with low transmission fluid.
If the fluid level is low, it can cause the transmission to overheat and potentially fail. It can also lead to increased wear and tear on the transmission, which can be costly to repair.
If you’re experiencing any issues with your transmission or if you suspect that the fluid level is low, it’s best to have it checked by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.
My Final Word
In conclusion, it’s generally not recommended to mix new and old transmission fluid.
It’s best to do a complete flush and replace the old fluid with new fluid to ensure that your transmission is receiving the proper lubrication and protection.
It’s also important to use the correct type of transmission fluid specified by the manufacturer of your vehicle and to have the fluid changed at the recommended intervals to keep your transmission running smoothly.
If you’re experiencing any issues with your transmission or if you suspect that the fluid level is low, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic for assistance. Overall, taking proper care of your transmission is crucial for the health and longevity of your vehicle.