Cars need many different types of fluids to keep it running properly. One of these vital fluids is transmission fluid. It’s a very slick, oily liquid that serves as a lubricant for the gears and all the moving parts inside of a transmission. It is an anti-wear liquid that will extend the life of the transmission and prevent costly transmission wear. Sometimes this fluid loses its proper lubrication properties over time and may need to be replaced.
Under certain circumstances an automatic, or self-shifting, transmission might need to be flushed and cleaned. An automatic transmission flush in Reston, VA is an important vehicle maintenance procedure that flushes the current transmission fluid out and new fluid is run through it using a particular machine. The process is used to remove sludge and debris that can build up over time. It also replaces all of the used fluid with fresh fluid.
Unlike a transmission fluid drain, a transmission flush ensures that all of the fluid in the pan, the cooler lines and the torque converter is completely flushed out and removed. Another difference between a flush and a drain procedure is that during a flush a cleaning additive may be used to help remove contaminants. That will help give the transmission a clean start before new fluid is added.
Pay Attention to the Warning Signs of Transmission Problems
Your check engine light may be an early indicator that something is starting to go wrong with your transmission. Your car can tell you when the transmission is failing or that your transmission fluid is bad and needs to be changed. When your vehicle suffers from any of these symptoms, you should have your vehicle inspected by a knowledgeable, experienced Wiygul Automotive technician.
The following Symptoms may indicate that your car could be in need of a transmission inspection or to see if an automatic transmission flush in Reston, VA by Wiygul Automotive is necessary:
- A hesitation, or delayed engagement when shifting into drive or reverse
- Falling out of gear while driving
- You have leaking transmission fluid
- Shifting gears for no apparent reason
- You smell a strong burning odor
- Shimmying between gears
- You hear a grating or grinding sound when shifting gears
- You notice your transmission is abnormally loud
The make, model and age of your vehicle and your transmission is a factor when making decisions about transmission maintenance. Not every vehicle will need a transmission flush or fluid replacement. Waiting too long to change the transmission fluid may cause issues such as transmission failure.
Knowing if you need an automatic transmission flush in Reston, VA can best be determined by one of our experienced automotive specialists at Wiygul Automotive.