- 6/8/2026
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The Importance of Transmission Fluid
The lifespan of transmission fluid is largely dependent on the temperatures it is exposed to during operation. High temperatures are among the most significant factors that negatively affect both the fluid and the transmission system itself. Transmission fluid does more than just lubricate; it also helps protect internal components from wear and tear and contributes to the operation of the components responsible for shifting gears.
When the transmission heats up, the fluid loses its properties and its efficiency declines, and this is when problems will begin to arise. Additionally, certain driving conditions can contribute to overheating, such as prolonged idling, frequent stopping and starting in congested cities, towing trailers, or continuously transporting heavy loads. For this reason, you should check and change your transmission fluid at the recommended intervals.
Read also: When should you change the automatic transmission fluid?
It is important to know that the internal parts of the transmission are subject to natural wear and tear over time, leading to the formation of fine particles and impurities within the fluid. The transmission filter captures a large portion of these deposits, but their continued accumulation can affect the system’s efficiency if the oil and filter are not replaced according to the recommended maintenance schedule.
One of the factors that can damage the transmission or impair its performance is low fluid levels in the system. This can lead to problems with shifting and overall transmission performance, especially when driving long distances without checking the fluid, or as a result of a leak in one of the system’s components.
Given the importance of this issue in buying and selling cars, Motorgy offers you used cars in Kuwait that have been inspected by a team of specialists, who ensure that all inspection details—covering more than 70 points—are included so you can understand the condition of the car you’re interested in before purchasing.
Read also: Should the transmission filter be changed along with the oil?
What happens if the transmission fluid isn’t changed?
If you want to know what will happen to your car’s transmission if its fluid isn’t changed, read the following:
The fluid will lose its viscosity and properties
Over time and with frequent use, the transmission fluid will begin to lose its ability to lubricate and cool properly, especially if it is not changed within the recommended intervals listed in the owner’s manual. As its viscosity decreases, its properties deteriorate, and its quality declines, the temperature inside the system will rise, increasing the likelihood that some internal components will be damaged.
The oil filter will become clogged
Engine oil carries contaminants and dirt to the filter to keep the system clean and maintain it. Over time, the oil filter will become clogged due to the accumulation of impurities inside it. This will reduce oil flow throughout the system, thereby increasing pressure on the system, reducing its efficiency, and increasing the likelihood of damage to internal components.
Overheating of the transmission
Transmission fluid plays a vital role in cooling internal parts and reducing friction between them. When its efficiency declines, its temperature will rise significantly due to increased friction and inadequate lubrication, leading to rapid wear of internal components. and if the problem is not addressed in a timely manner, the transmission may be completely damaged, and symptoms of transmission fluid damage will begin to appear.
Read also: The Impact of Tires on Gas Mileage
Problems with Gear Shifting
Neglecting to change the transmission fluid may lead to problems with gear shifting, as you may notice that the transmission does not hold the desired gear or shifts between gears abnormally. These symptoms are often caused by a decline in the fluid’s efficiency or a low fluid level, which affects the transmission’s overall performance.
Poor Gear Shifting Smoothness
When the transmission fluid becomes old or contaminated with impurities, gear shifting loses its smoothness and becomes rough and difficult; this is because the fluid can no longer provide the appropriate viscosity and operational characteristics within the transmission, thereby weakening the shifting process and potentially leading to transmission damage in the end. And remember, automatic transmission problems are expensive and time-consuming to repair.
Slow vehicle response
One sign that may indicate a problem with the transmission fluid is that you will notice the car’s response is slow when you press the accelerator pedal, especially during acceleration. In this case, the transmission may not be functioning properly, which affects acceleration and makes the transfer of power from the engine to the wheels less smooth. This may be accompanied by noticeable hesitation or jerking.
