How Often to Change Transmission Fluid?
Depending on whether you have an automatic or manual transmission, you'll need to change your transmission fluid at different intervals. Along with that, every model has its own specific maintenance schedule, where you can find specific intervals for when to change its transmission fluid.
Manual Transmission Interval
However, in general, most manual transmission vehicles will call for a transmission fluid change between every 30,000 and 60,000 miles.
Automatic Transmission Interval
For cars with an automatic transmission, this interval varies even more widely and can range anywhere from every 30,000 miles to-in some cases-almost never. To be sure, you can reference your owner's manual.Â
Transmission Fluid Checks & Corrections

In between intervals, it's also a good idea to check your transmission fluid levels periodically or ask your service technician to do so. This can mitigate any potential damage caused by having too little transmission fluid.
What Does Transmission Fluid Do?
In short, if your car doesn't have the right amount of transmission fluid, it won't be able to shift properly. Transmission fluid lubricates all the different components, so they can work together without too much friction and heat building up inside the transmission system.
In an automatic transmission system, the transmission fluid both cools the parts and helps to transfer power between the engine and the transmission, so you can shift.
Automatic transmission fluid tends to break down over time, due to the high temperatures within the transmission system. Along with that, it can become contaminated by metal particles that break off from the parts within the transmission system. Transmissions filled with metal particles can't lubricate adequately enough, leaving the transmission parts less protected.Â
Signs You Need to Change Your Transmission Fluid
In addition to staying current with your transmission-fluid-change intervals and scheduling routine fluid checks, there are a few signs to watch out for that may indicate you need transmission service.
Most transmission fluid is bright red in color, making it easy to spot and differentiate from other types of fluid in your car. If you notice your transmission fluid is dark in color or see a leak under your car, bring your vehicle in for an inspection. Along with that, keep an eye out for the following signs:
- Difficulty shifting gears
- Grinding noise when shifting
- Slipping in and out of gear
If you notice any of these signs, it's best to bring your vehicle in as quickly as possible, so a service technician can check and correct your transmission fluid levels if need be.
Transmission Fluid Change near Me
Think it's time for a transmission fluid check or change? If so, contact our service team at Watermark Nissan of Marion.
We look forward to getting you back on the streets of Marion, Herrin, and Carbondale, IL, safely!