Caring for Your Transmission at Lamb's Tire & Auto

Your transmission plays a crucial role in transferring power from your engine to your wheels. It ensures that your engine operates efficiently at the right speed, maximizing fuel economy. Since the transmission is both complex and costly, regular servicing is essential to prolong its lifespan and maintain vehicle reliability. However, many drivers may be unaware of how to properly care for their transmission or what exactly a transmission fluid flush entails.

At Lamb’s Tire & Automotive in Austin, we specialize in all aspects of vehicle maintenance and transmission repairs. Our team offers professional transmission flush services designed to protect your transmission effectively. With ASE-certified technicians, you can rest assured that your vehicle is in capable hands. Whether this is your first time learning about a transmission flush or your vehicle is due for routine service, contact us today to book an appointment and let our experts safeguard your transmission.

Understanding a Transmission Flush

During a transmission flush, one of our skilled mechanics connects a fluid exchange machine to your transmission. New fluid is then pumped into the system while simultaneously removing old fluid, which flows into the machine. This process ensures that all old fluid is completely drained and replaced with fresh fluid, providing optimal protection for your transmission.

The Advantages of a Transmission Fluid Flush

Performing regular transmission flushes offers numerous benefits:

• Improves fuel efficiency
• Promotes overall vehicle reliability
• Reduces long-term ownership costs
• Prevents expensive repairs

Why a Transmission Flush Matters

Your transmission contains multiple gears that enable your engine to deliver torque to the wheels at varying ratios. Depending on your vehicle type, it might have anywhere from three to ten gears. Some cars also come equipped with continuously variable automatic transmissions or manual transmissions.

Regardless of the specific transmission type, it relies on transmission fluid to lubricate, cool, and clean internal components. Over time, exposure to fluctuating temperatures can cause the fluid to degrade, becoming contaminated and losing its protective qualities. If left untreated, degraded transmission fluid could result in irreparable damage.

A Transmission Flush vs. A Simple Fluid Change

It’s important to distinguish between a “transmission flush” and a “fluid change,” as these terms are sometimes used interchangeably but refer to distinct processes. In a transmission flush, new fluid is introduced into the system while old fluid is removed using a specialized machine. This method removes nearly all traces of old fluid from the transmission.

In contrast, a basic fluid change involves draining the old fluid via the drain plug and replacing it with fresh fluid. Unfortunately, this approach doesn’t address hidden areas within the transmission where dirty fluid might still linger. Consequently, this type of service typically removes only about 40% of the total fluid volume.

How Often Should You Get a Transmission Flush?

Refer to your vehicle’s owner manual for specific guidelines tailored to your make and model. These instructions outline the recommended frequency for transmission flushes based on mileage intervals.

As a general rule, we advise scheduling a transmission fluid flush every 60,000 miles to enhance performance, efficiency, and longevity. However, there are certain situations where more frequent flushing may be necessary:

Frequent Off-Roading

Driving off-road places significant stress on your transmission. The engine generates high torque, which the transmission must counteract while navigating challenging terrain. These conditions often lead to overheating, causing rapid oxidation of the transmission fluid. Vehicles without adequate cooling systems may require emergency flushes after intense off-road sessions.

Regular Towing

Towing heavy loads puts immense pressure on your transmission. Maintaining consistent torque output becomes increasingly difficult, especially when climbing hills. Regular towing activities warrant closer monitoring; consider having your transmission flushed every 15,000 to 30,000 miles instead of waiting until 60,000 miles.

Engine Overheating

Surprisingly, engine overheating can harm your transmission too! Transmission fluid usually passes through the radiator for cooling purposes. If your engine overheats, this hot fluid can contaminate the transmission fluid, leading to oxidation issues. Whenever your engine overheats, follow up with a transmission flush alongside any required fixes.

Schedule a Service Appointment Today

At Lamb’s Tire & Automotive, our goal is to keep your vehicle operating smoothly. Our experienced technicians utilize top-tier parts and fluids to deliver reliable results at competitive prices. Plus, we offer discounts through service coupons to help stretch your budget further.

Don’t wait until something goes wrong—contact us now to schedule a transmission flush or any other maintenance needs. Trust your car to the skilled professionals who consistently deliver excellence in Austin.