It might seem odd, but knowing what color your transmission fluid should be is important. Hightech Automotive explains that transmission fluid changes color as it ages. There comes a point when the color tells you that it’s time to change the transmission fluid. This point is usually every 30,000 miles. It’s important to change the transmission fluid when it needs it because it acts both as a hydraulic fluid and as a lubricant. Low or dirty transmission fluid can overheat the transmission and damage it.
Bright Red
The ideal color of transmission fluid is bright red. The fluid should also be translucent. When transmission fluid is red and translucent, it is working well as a lubricant and hydraulic fluid. It is cleaning and protecting the internal transmission parts and gears effectively as well as aiding the transmission in shifting gears. When your vehicle’s transmission fluid is this color, it does not need to be changed.
Light Brown
It also does not need to be changed when it is light brown and translucent. In some cases, the clear transmission fluid will look more orange than brown. This, too, is okay. As long as the transmission fluid has not turned brown and opaque, it is still doing a decent job of protecting the transmission and shifting gears. This being said, the fluid will need to be changed soon.
Dark Brown
Once the fluid turns brown, it’s time to change it. Brown transmission fluid is old and oxidized. If the fluid is dark brown or black, it is damaging the transmission. This fluid has filled with tiny air bubbles that inhibit its ability to protect the transmission. You may also notice that your car, truck, or utility vehicle is having problems shifting gears. This fluid should be changed immediately to avoid damaging the transmission.
Pink
Finally, sometimes the transmission and cooling system developed leaks that cause the engine coolant to mix with the transmission fluid. When this happens, the fluid turns pink and frothy. This is an indication of a serious problem that needs to be fixed right away. Not only will your engine overheat, but driving with the diluted transmission fluid will seriously damage the transmission.
Call Hightech Automotive in Forest City, NC, today to schedule an appointment for a transmission fluid check. We can flush and refill the fluid if it needs it. If it’s been longer than 30,000 miles since you’ve had your transmission fluid changed, it’s time for this service.