Can I Just Add Transmission Fluid With No Control? 5 Mistakes Not to Make When Replacing

Checking and replacing the transmission fluid is no straightforward task. Some people ask, can I just add transmission fluid with no control? The answer is no.

The replacement oil for the automatic transmission is an operation progressively that is less common on newer cars. It becomes necessary in terms of automatic transmission vibration and noises than you expect.

Some people ask, can I just add transmission fluid with no control? Changing the oil on the automatic transmission is not a simple operation like the traditional engine oil.

What is Automatic Transmission Fluid?

In some modern cars with a manual transmission, the replacement of the gearbox oil is an intervention that is not foreseen in the maintenance plan (check the car owner’s manual). On some old-fashioned models, the automatic gearbox has specific maintenance works in the workshop.

Most times, replacing the filter and automatic transmission fluid becomes a routine intervention to prevent noise and wear on the automatic transmission. One of the major manufacturers of automatic transmissions has identified the most frequent mistakes that can be made when replacing automatic transmission oil.

Let’s see them, remembering that do-it-yourself is strongly not recommended for the maintenance of the automatic transmission unless you have the appropriate technical knowledge.

5 Mistakes Not to Make and Advice for Experts and Non-experts

1. Automatic Transmission Without Oil

One of the most frequent errors in automatic transmission oil replacement occurs after the lubricating fluid has been drained and the intervention takes longer than usual. Without oil in the automatic transmission, the car should not be towed and we should not start the engine either.

2. Oil Replacement Automatic Transmission With or Without Pan

Auto repairers who are experienced in automatic transmissions know how to operate in front of a metal oil pan. You must know what to do when the automatic transmission oil pan is made of plastic.

Another mistake made when replacing automatic transmission oil is underestimating the difference between metal and plastic cups. If it makes the bowl of plastic, besides the sealing gasket, the bowl must be completely replaced as it contains the integrated filter. Otherwise, it must be specified by the manufacturer.

3. Automatic Transmission Oil Replacement: Wrong Assembly

If it is necessary to remove the automatic transmission oil sump, the extension and the number of pins do not allow a causal assembly. It is one foundation of car repairers, but also one of the most frequent mistakes that can be made with the maintenance of the automatic gearbox.

The basic advice is to follow the crossover order from the center outwards established by the manufacturer. Tighten the pins to the recommended torque with the use of a torque wrench.

4. Automatic Oil Change And Level Control

Another common mistake for the less experienced is to check the automatic gearbox oil level when cold based on the classic procedures of a manual, mechanical gearbox. We must carry the automatic transmission oil level check out while warm after starting the engine.

If we have replaced the automatic transmission oil, you must also follow the manufacturer’s exact instructions on the gears to be engaged before carrying out the check.

5. Automatic Transmission Oil Temperature

Besides checking the gearbox oil level when cold, it is also a mistake to warm the engine until it seems warm enough to check the oil level in the sump. Each type of transmission has its temperature range. The manufacturer has provided for the control of the oil level in the automatic gearbox.

Between two different automatic gearbox models of the same manufacturer, there can be up to five-degree differences. If you are outside this range, you will risk not putting the amount of oil in the automatic gearbox.

How to Add Transmission Fluid Correctly?

– Step 1: Get the right fluid. Once you have determined that your transmission needs more fluid to add to it, you will need to get both the correct transmission fluid for your vehicle and a long, thin funnel to make adding to the existing fluid.

Do not add liquid if it is not the correct type. Some dipsticks will tell the correct fluid if you don’t have an owner’s manual.

– Step 2: Add fluid through a funnel. You can add more by inserting a funnel into the tube from which we pulled the dipstick and pouring a small amount of automatic transmission fluid into the tube. Check the level every time you add a little until the level is right between the two lines.

Add fluid while the engine is running in the correct gear to check the fluid levels. If it has drained the transmission, it takes from four to 12 liters of fluid to refill it. Follow your vehicle’s service manual for the recommended type and amount of fluid to use.

If the fluid is very low when checked, then add more fluid and watch carefully for any leaks. Low fluid can be a sign that fluid will leak. Expect to add about a pint before checking the level again.

– Step 3: Go through all the broadcast settings. If there are no leaks and the fluid is at an adequate level, go back behind the wheel (but keep the hood open). With one foot on the brake, drive through all settings on the transmission. It will move around the fresh fluid and allow it to coat all parts of the transmission.

– Step 4: Check the dipstick. Make sure the fluid level is correct even after changing the transmission through all settings. Add more if the level has dropped too much.

Final Words

Proper transmission maintenance will keep your car running smoothly. Your vehicle will remain effective for many more miles than one with a neglected transmission. The only thing that keeps all parts immaculate inside the transmission lubricated is the automatic transmission fluid.

Can I just add a transmission fluid with no control? Never do that. Checking the level regularly and adding fluid as needed is good practice. If you’d rather have a professional mechanic, you can add transmission fluid for you at home or in the office but still need to check step-by-step carefully.

source https://automotivegearz.com/can-i-just-add-transmission-fluid/