Choosing the Right Transmission Fluid

Your local transmission repair shop in Rockville, MD can be of help in a lot of situations, not just when your transmission completely breaks down and needs to be rebuild or replaced. For example, a transmission specialist can help you choose the right fluid for your transmission to keep it running smoothly. Of course this is also one of those transmission maintenance services people like to perform on their own, and there’s nothing wrong with that if you would rather change out your own transmission fluid instead of having a professional do it for you. However, you might still need some help choosing the right transmission fluid for your car. Here are some tips to help you out. Choosing Right Transmission Fluid

Check Your Owner’s Manual

The best place to start is by consulting the owner’s manual. This is a great source of information for all things related to the maintenance of your car, including transmission maintenance. The owner’ manual will note whether your vehicle requires Dextron or Mercon transmission fluid, or whether there is a make- or model-specific fluid your car requires.

Compare Synthetic vs. Conventional Fluid

Once you know which type of transmission fluid your car takes, you will need to decide whether you want to purchase synthetic or conventional fluid. There are pros and cons to each choice. Synthetic fluid, for example, is more durable at higher temperatures and provides better performance than conventional fluid, but it can also be costlier. On some older models, it’s sometimes recommended to stick with conventional fluid since making the switch can actually do more harm and lead to unwanted transmission repair issues.

Consult with a Transmission Specialist

If you want to make sure you get the absolute best transmission fluid for your vehicle, consult with an expert at your local transmission maintenance and repair shop. A specialist will provide you with sound advice on which type and brand of transmission fluid is best for your make and model. A transmission specialist will also take into consideration the age and condition of your transmission as well as your budget and performance requirements when making a recommendation.