What Happens During A Transmission Flush

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Most people don't love spending money on car repairs. A transmission repair or replacement can be among the most expensive, but it can be avoided with the proper preventive care. The easiest way to avoid problems with the gears in your transmission is to get a transmission flush at the mileage points recommended by the manufacturer. Here is what is done in a transmission flush:

Old Fluid Drained from the System

The first step of the transmission flush involves draining the old transmission fluid. Removing this fluid is important because the fluid collects debris and dirt that get inside of the transmission. With gunk buildup in the fluid, it can build up around the gears and cause wear and tear as well as stick in the gears when the driver attempts to shift. The longer transmission fluid goes without being changed, the thinner it gets, which makes it less effective at lubricating the gears. This also can contribute to the grinding of the gears, which will wear them out faster.

High-Pressure Wash in the System

Once the old fluid is drained, the mechanic will run a high-pressure washer in the transmission. This process will not only completely remove any and all residue remaining from the old fluid, but it will also completely remove any hardened or gummy substances that are sticking to a car's gears. With the complete removal of dirt and debris, the transmission will be prepared for new fluid. The mechanic can also see the gears clearly, and make minor repairs to any gear slots that may have signs of cracking or other damage that could affect the rest of the transmission.

Lubricating Fluid Put Into System

Once the system is fully drained and cleaned, it is ready for new transmission fluid. This fluid is thick, and it surrounds the gears, providing effective lubrication. When the gears have clean transmission fluid, it is easy to shift without any sticking or grinding, which provides a smoother, safer drive. It also slows wear and tear greatly, making it more likely your transmission will last for many years.

Most transmissions, if properly maintained with preventative flushes and new fluid, will last well over a hundred-thousand miles. Without the recommended preventative care, it's very likely your car's gears will stick, grind, and wear very quickly. Replacing a transmission is one of the most expensive car repairs, so it's worth the cost to do periodic transmission flushes to keep your system running smoothly.  


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