Did you know that there are different types of transmission fluid? Find out more about transmission fluid right here.
The primary function of a car’s transmission system is to guarantee balance between the engine’s power and the vehicle’s speed. Too much engine power but no speed causes a vehicle to rev up. On the other hand, minimal to zero power but high speed causes a car to stall. Keeping a good balance between a car’s engine power and speed ensures optimal performance and secures safety.
The transmission system requires transmission fluid to run smoothly. This fluid acts as a lubricant and likewise serves as a cooling agent. Therefore, it prevents delayed acceleration and overheating.
Transmission fluids are divided into different types. It is essential to use the appropriate transmission fluid for a specific car to avoid damaging the vehicle and affecting the transmission’s performance. Generally, manufacturers include such information in the car’s manual. You can also look for the right transmission fluid for specific vehicles at online sources like MyEngineNeeds.com.
There are two main types of transmission fluid: automatic and manual transmission fluid. However, recently, more car manufacturers utilize synthetic transmission fluids for certain types of transmission, such as CVT and dual-clutch models. To begin with, below is a summary of the distinction between the different types of transmission fluids.
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Automatic transmissions use regular automatic transmission fluid. A vehicle with automatic transmission shifts itself between gears automatically, based on the driver input. The car’s central computer controls the transmission. Many manufacturers now use automatic transmission due to its fuel efficiency and a smoother ride. Unfortunately, automatic transmissions are not applicable for specialized rides.
Automatic transmission fluid is a lubricant. However, it can also be used in cleaning and protecting metal surfaces from damages, conditioning gaskets, preventing overheating, and increasing rotational speed.
There are also different types of automatic transmission fluid. It varies from Mercon V, Mercon LV, Dexron VI, to Matic S, K, and D.
Manual Transmission Fluid
Manual transmission is the oldest type of transmission system. It requires a driver to change gears manually, as well as, to control and optimize speed and power.
Manual transmission fluids also vary like ATFs. Some vehicles use plain motor oil, also known as heavyweight hypoid gear oil, whereas others require automatic transmission fluid. Therefore, some manual transmissions may need ATFs.
Synthetic Transmission Fluid
Synthetic transmission fluids have been the rave for the past years. Several car manufacturers use synthetic fluids because they won’t easily break down compared to traditional transmission fluids.
Synthetic fluid is a product of different chemical reactions. This unique property of the fluid makes it less vulnerable to thinning out due to high temperatures and less likely to oxidize. On the other hand, traditional transmission fluids came from crude oil, which quickly burns out from high temperatures.
How to Look for the Correct Transmission Fluid?
Remember that every car requires a different type of transmission fluid. Consult the car’s manual and look up the manufacturer’s suggestion. If you no longer have a copy of the car’s manual, ask assistance from reliable online sources. All you have to do is look for the car’s model, its manufacturer, and appropriate transmission fluid on the web.
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