Automatic transmission fluid: Its role, when to change it, and important considerations when using it.

Automatic transmissions and the role of transmission fluid.

However, this convenience comes with a very complex mechanical-hydraulic-electronic system, requiring high-quality transmission fluid to ensure stable operation.

In an automatic transmission,Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)It's not just a simple lubricant like in a manual transmission; it also plays a role in power transmission, hydraulic control, and assisting in gear shifting through the valve body and internal clutches.

The difference between manual transmission fluid and automatic transmission fluid.

Formanual transmissionOil primarily performs the functions of lubrication, cooling, and reducing gear wear. When there is a lack of oil, drivers often only feel difficulty shifting gears, difficulty changing gears, or slight gear sticking.

Opposite, automatic transmissionThe quality of the oil is highly dependent on the transmission fluid. ATF (Automatic Transfer Fluid) must both lubricate and create the precise hydraulic pressure for the pistons, control valves, and friction plates to operate at the correct time. If the oil is substandard or insufficient, the transmission may experience sluggishness, delayed gear changes, slippage, and even overheating and serious damage.

How does automatic transmission fluid work?

ATF oil is formulated from high-quality base oils combined with specialized additives to maintain thermal stability, minimize foaming, and keep viscosity suitable throughout operation. As a result, the oil can circulate precisely within hydraulic fluid lines, ensuring smooth and continuous gear changes.

The main functions of automatic transmission fluid include lubricating and reducing friction in moving parts, transmitting power in the torque converter, assisting in automatic gear shifting, protecting parts from wear, and extending the lifespan of the transmission.

How often should I change the automatic transmission fluid?

Depending on the gearbox design and usage conditions, the oil change interval may vary:

With Automatic transmissions with dipstick (open transmissions)Therefore, the oil should be changed after every period of time.40.000 – 50.000 km.

With enclosed automatic transmissionAlthough many manufacturers advertise "lifetime oil," in practice, it's recommended to change the oil within a certain period.120.000 – 150.000 kmTo ensure long-term durability.

Additionally, users should carefully consult the manufacturer's manual or seek advice from a specialized transmission garage to determine the most appropriate replacement schedule.

How to choose the right automatic transmission fluid

Each type of transmission requires a specific oil standard, such as Dexron, Mercon, or ATF specifically designed for 6-speed, 7-speed, 9-speed, or CVT transmissions. Using the wrong oil standard or mixing different types of oil can cause deposits, affecting the valve body and hydraulic system.

With a diverse product range,Gartz offers a full range of high-quality transmission fluids., meeting various standards:

Automatic transmission (AT):G4, G6, 6HP, 7G, 9G-HP
CVT transmission:CVT RED, CVT GOLD
Manual transmission:75W-85
Dual-clutch transmission:DSG, DCTF
All components have been researched to suit real-world operating conditions, ensuring smooth and durable gearbox operation over time.

Do not attempt to change the transmission fluid yourself.

Because transmission fluid has many strict standards and technical requirements, especially for high-end vehicles, users should not attempt to change the fluid at home. Changing the wrong fluid, following the wrong procedure, or not controlling the amount of fluid can damage the transmission, resulting in very high repair costs.

The safest solution is to have your oil changed at reputable garages using high-quality products.Genuine, standard-compliant transmission fluid like Gartz.and follow the correct technical procedures.

Conclude

Automatic transmission fluid plays a crucial role in ensuring the proper functioning and lifespan of the transmission. Choosing the right type of fluid, changing it at the right time, and using the correct technique will help the vehicle shift smoothly, maintain its performance, and save costs in the long run.Gartz – high-quality transmission fluid solutions for all types of vehicles.