When to Get Your Transmission Flushed

Getting your transmission flushed periodically is essential for keeping your vehicle in good shape. But when should you do it, and how often is too often?

Our team at St. Charles Nissan has gathered up all you need to know on the subject for drivers in the St. Charles, St. Louis, O'Fallon, and Saint Peters areas. We want to help you head off this problem early and avoid costly transmission repairs down the road.

Here are some of the biggest warning signs to look out for:

Can't Shift Gears

If you have an automatic transmission, you may notice that your vehicle seems to be changing gears too quickly or too late while you're driving, even by only a second or two. If you drive with a manual transmission, you may suddenly find it physically difficult to shift gears.

In either of these cases, it's probably time for a transmission flush. Your transmission fluid needs to flow smoothly throughout your car's transmission, and too much muck and sludge can gum up the works.

Is That Transmission Grinding I Hear?

That strange grinding or squealing sound coming from your transmission probably means you need a fluid change-and a transmission flush. If you notice this happening, stop your car and check the fluid levels while the engine is running. If they seem fine, then you most likely need a transmission flush.

Vehicle Surges-or Falls Back

If your car starts speeding up or slowing down for no good reason, there's a good chance its dirty transmission is at fault. The uneven flow of fluid can cause the gears and other parts in the transmission bell house to move hesitantly. This will affect the speed of your vehicle, even when you're not intending to change gears.   

Preventative Measures

It's good to get your transmission flushed regularly and avoid waiting until you have the problems above. However, there's a wide range of opinions when it comes to how long you should wait between flushes. Some vehicles will need flushes every 30,000 miles or two years, but others can go a bit longer.

Every vehicle is different, so at the end of the day, it's always best to consult your owner's manual to see what the manufacturer recommends for your specific make and model. You don't want to flush your transmission too often, though. If you do so, you risk the flushed-out dirt and residue getting lodged someplace it shouldn't be, which could cause transmission failure in the future.

Likewise, if you wait so long that the fluid turns dark, has specks or flakes, and smells burnt, you may have damaged your transmission beyond repair. You'll likely need a replacement.  

Schedule Your Transmission Flush at St. Charles Nissan

The automotive experts at St. Charles Nissan can help you figure out when the time is ripe for a transmission flush. If you're in St. Charles, St. Louis, O'Fallon, or Saint Peters and have any questions, feel free to contact us-we'd love to be of service. Set up an appointment to get your transmission flushed today!