Transmission & Transfer Case Fluids

WHY IS TRANSMISSION FLUID SO CRITICAL?

Your transmission is always on the move, which means it constantly generates heat and friction. Automotive transmission fluid is critical in both automatic and manual transmissions because it cools and lubricates the interlocking gears for seamless shifting. In automatic transmissions, pressurized fluid in the hydraulic gear system creates the force to shift gears.

Signs that your transmission needs maintenance or repair include fluid leaking from underneath your vehicle, a burning smell from under your hood, your vehicle shaking or shuddering while in motion, and grinding, screeching or clunking when accelerating or decelerating. If you are experiencing transmission slipping (sudden loss of speed or inability to accelerate quickly), immediately schedule an appointment at your nearest NAPA Auto Care center.

A high-quality transmission fluid offers immediate results like advanced fuel economy, extended protection and premium performance. Any ATF should deliver stability against oxidation and corrosion, prevent clutch wear, and provide outstanding thermal stability for cleanliness and longer service life. The long-life friction modifiers and premium base oils in an ATF help improve smooth shifting and eliminate slippage. Enhanced cleaning additives help reduce varnish formation, and keep the transmission running properly longer.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD ATF BE DRAINED AND FILLED?

Not only does your ATF trap heat, it also traps debris and particles. The longer the transmission oil is used, the more debris accumulates, which can cause the ATF to lose its lubrication benefits, becoming abrasive and harmful. This can lead to premature wear of the automatic transmission components and a shorter life span for the vehicle. In order to keep your transmission cool and collected, you must drain the dirty, used transmission oil and replace it with new, clean fluid. If your automatic transmission fluid is dark, cloudy, brown and smells burnt, it is time to drain and add bright, clear, sweet-smelling, red fluid. A fluid drain and fill typically replaces less than half of the transmission oil, which is normally more than enough for routine maintenance. However, if you are experiencing transmission problems, a full flush (which requires using a powerful machine to pump out at least 80% of the used oil) might be necessary.

According to the NAPA experts, transmission inspections and fluid exchanges need done every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Your vehicle Owner's Manual will list the mileage at which your transmission fluid change should be completed. It will also recommend the automatic transmission fluid you should use. NAPA Auto Parts sells a wide range of ATF from conventional formulations to synthetic compounds, including multi-vehicle to heavy-duty applications, covering import vehicles and hybrids. Shop popular brands like Castrol, ENEOS, Lucas Oil, Pentosin, Valvoline and more. From one quart to one gallon, NAPA has what you need.

FILL UP ON ALL THE FLUIDS NEEDED FOR A SMOOTH RIDE

All-wheel drive and four-wheel drive vehicles heavily rely on differentials and a transfer case to keep wheels and axels spinning as they should. The transfer case is what splits the power between the front and rear axles. If it overheats from lack of transfer case fluid, your vehicle may no longer be able to operate. Much like the engine and the transmission, your car's differential needs proper lubrication to function effectively. Referred to as both gear oil and differential oil, the extreme-pressure lubricant is engineered for better load carrying capacity. And, high-performance seal conditioners maintain and preserve the elasticity of seals to help prevent leaks.

These specific automotive fluids are formulated with a unique blend of viscosity modifiers and base oils to generate better oil flow at low temperatures and greater film protection at higher temperatures. The NAPA experts recommend that you check differential fluid and transfer case oil every 15,000 miles.