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Modern cars are increasingly equipped with an automatic transmission. Thanks to the automatic machine, the machine is controlled without constantly engaging the clutch. It is convenient for novice motorists. Automatic transmission is a complex device, so it costs a lot of money. If the automatic gearbox is not serviced regularly, this will lead to costly repairs. In order to prevent serious damage, it is recommended to monitor the oil level.
A timely check will help determine the state of the machine. Identified problems are resolved without waiting for a deterioration in performance. This procedure is not complicated. If you wish, you can do it yourself, but if you’re not sure, it’s better to turn to specialists.
How to check the oil level in the automatic transmission
Before checking the oil level, the automatic gearbox is heated to 65 degrees Celsius. It is better to do this by driving a car 10-15 km. But if this is not possible, start the engine and let it run until the fan is turned on or until the coolant temperature reaches 90–95 degrees.
The box is switched to parking mode or neutral (on some automatic transmissions). The method of measuring the oil level depends on the model of the machine. Most boxes with a probe, but there are those that do not have one. Check the fluid while the engine is running.
Automatic transmission with dipstick
There are two marks (Cold) and (Hot) on the probe. The first shows the level of cold oil. The second label indicates the level of hot liquid in the box and is a more accurate meter. It is checked in several stages:
- Warm up the box
- Park the machine on a flat surface.
- Set the automatic transmission lever to the parking mode (P) with the engine running
- Take the probe out of the box
For accurate measurement, lower the probe into the box several times with a long time interval. An oil level that has reached the Hot mark is considered normal. If the trace of transmission fluid is between the marks, this indicates a low level. In this case, add oil so that foaming does not occur.
Automatic without probe
Not all automatic gearbox models have a probe. Such automatic transmissions are designed for service in special service centers. Automatic machines without a dipstick have two holes: for filling oil and draining. How to determine the fluid level? A special oil limiter is screwed into the drain plug hole. It looks like a long tube and works according to this principle: excess fluid that drains above into a sump. Thus, the level is determined by the height of the limiter.
Automatic transmissions with such a system are not at risk of oil overflow. Excess fluid drains through a screwed-off plug. The drawback of these automatic transmissions is the inconvenient checking of the level of transmission fluid. It is difficult to determine the degree of oil contamination. Inexperienced car owner is better to go to the service station. But if you are confident in your abilities and ready to learn how to service the car yourself, then you can try.
To check the oil, follow these steps:
- Preheat automatic transmission to operating temperature
- Place the vehicle on a flat surface above the pit or use the lift
- Set the automatic transmission lever to the parking mode (P). The engine must be running at all times
- Unscrew drain pan drain
A small amount of excess fluid will flow. If nothing even drips, the level is below normal. To fix this, add oil through the filler hole in the box. Filling is carried out with the engine running.You will see how excess transmission fluid flows out of the drain hole. Wait for the droplets to go and tighten the hole. In such a simple way, the desired oil level is set. Experts advise changing the old fluid, which may contain contamination in its volume.
If you do not service the automatic transmission on time, this will lead to costly repairs. How? You overlooked the oil level. Lack of fluid or excess shortens the service life of the machine or unexpectedly disables.
When the automatic transmission oil level is below normal
The pump is responsible for the circulation of oil, which distills it through the channels and creates the necessary pressure for the friction clutch and the torque converter. If there is not enough oil, the pump draws air into the system. This leads to foaming of the liquid. The oil begins to compress, poorly lubricate and remove heat from the torque converter. As a result, the pressure in the system drops and the box overheats.
This problem is solved by a complete oil change, rather than topping up. A low liquid level leads to a large amount of metal chips. It is a lot and magnets can not cope. Excess chips are constantly contained in the oil and are distilled along with it through the system. Therefore, the entire volume of fluid changes.
When the automatic transmission oil level is above normal
An overestimated level of transmission fluid leads to the same consequences as an underestimated one. The rotating parts of the box foam the oil. This occurs when the car moves at higher speeds. The volume of oil increases and flows through the breather. As a result, the fluid remains less than normal.
This problem has a simple solution. Allow the car to stand until the oil stops foaming, and then pump out the excess.
How to check the quality of oil in automatic transmission
You will need a syringe connected to a piece of dropper hose. Dip it in the probe hole and draw in a little liquid. By the black color and the burnt smell, you will understand that it is time to change the oil in the automatic transmission.
Automatic transmission is the main element of the transmission. Comfort and safety depend on her condition. Do not delay service, regularly check the oil level. Careful handling will extend the life of the automatic transmission and will not fail, even in difficult conditions.
Video: oil change in an automatic transmission
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