Do You Need To Change Your Transmission Filter?

The transmission is one of the most important parts of your car's engine. It's what transfers the power that the engine generates to your car's wheels. Essentially, the transmission is what allows your car to move, and a transmission repair shop can help guide you to the right maintenance that's needed for your vehicle. The transmission filter is an important component that helps prevent damage from occurring to the transmission and allows it to do its job properly and efficiently. However, the transmission filter does need to be changed every once in a while.

What Does a Transmission Filter Do?

The transmission filter is located above the transmission pan, which is the component that catches the excess fluid. The filter is also situated below the pickup tube, which connects to the oil pump. The purpose of the transmission filter is to collect any contaminants in the lubricating fluids, such as dirt and debris, preventing them from being sent into the transmission. As the transmission grows older, general wear and tear may cause metal shavings to get into the transmission fluid as well. The transmission filter helps to remove these shavings as well.

Changing the Transmission Filter

Like any other type of filter, the transmission filter is eventually going to clog up with debris, dirt, metal shavings, and other contaminants if it's never changed. This will prevent it from being able to do its job, which, in turn, will cause contaminants to get away and could potentially cause damage to the transmission.

Determining if the transmission filter needs to be changed can be a challenging task since it's located in the transmission. Essentially, you would have to open up the transmission in order to check to see whether or not the transmission filter is clogged and needs to be changed. Fortunately, there are a few signs that you can look for that indicate that you may need to have your transmission filter changed. These signs include the following:

• The scent of the transmission fluid – If you notice that your transmission fluid has begun to give off a burning odor, it may be the result of a clogged filter.
• The color of the transmission fluid – If the transmission fluid has turned into a darker color than normal, it's likely due to a clogged filter.
• Odd noises – If you hear strange sounds while shifting gears, it could potentially be an issue related to a clogged filter.
• Clucky gearshifts – If you're having trouble shifting gears, it could be because your transmission filter is no longer doing its job.

These are all signs that your transmission filter needs to be changed. However, ideally, you'll want to change your filter before any of these problems come up. Keeping that in mind, it's recommended that you change your transmission filter whenever you have to perform a transmission fluid change. Usually, your owner's manual will inform you when you need to do this. Some cars also have an onboard computer that tracks the fluid life of the car, making it easier to figure out when the transmission fluid needs to be changed.

Getting a Professional Transmission Filter Change

Transmission filter replacement is not something that you'll want to try on your own. This is because you will need to remove the transmission pan and drain the fluid before you can replace the transmission filter. While not the most difficult task, it can get very messy. You'll also have to make sure that you use the correct pan gasket to reseal your transmission. Because of this, it's best if you let a professional replace your transmission filter.

To have your transmission filter replaced or your car inspected, contact us at Express Transmissions in Toledo today.