A gearbox, also known as a transmission, requires fluid changes at regularly scheduled intervals. Transmission fluid is necessary for proper function of the transmission. Changing the transmission fluid removes accumulated debris and prolongs the life of the transmission.
A transmission is the device connected to an internal combustion engine that transfers the power of the engine to move the wheels. A manual transmission, also known as a "stick shift," uses a different set of gears for each level of speed and power. Shifting the gear shift activates a different set of gears to allow the vehicle to accelerate at low gears and maintain a fast speed at high gears. Automatic transmissions use either a planetary model, which is a single set of gears that is activated in different combinations to achieve the correct gear, or a continuously variable transmission. Continuously variable transmissions operate on a pulley system, which continuously changes the gear in tiny increments to ensure the best possible power-to-speed ratio for the vehicle.
Transmission fluid is found inside the transmission. It lubricates the gears and shafts within the transmission, ensuring that all parts move easily. Manual transmissions can use different types of lubricant, including motor oil. Automatic transmissions can only use automatic transmission fluid.
Transmission fluid needs to be changed as recommended by individual car manufacturers. The gears in a transmission are made of metal and rub against one another when they are turning together. Over time, little bits of metal rub off and will contaminate the transmission fluid, reducing its ability to effectively lubricate the transmission. Automatic transmission fluid will break down over time, due to the increased level of heat generated by an automatic transmission.
For the specific recommended interval for a specific vehicle, auto owners can check their owner's manual. In general, however, most vehicle manufacturers suggest that a manual transmission receive a fluid change every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, and automatic transmissions should receive a fluid change every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. During heavy use, such as towing, transmission fluid should be changed more often.
The fragments of metal that accumulate in transmission fluid over time can cause damage to the gears in the transmission. Changing transmission fluid regularly can prolong the life of a transmission for this reason. Neglecting to change transmission fluid regularly can cause excessive wear and result in the need for a new transmission entirely.
