What Does the Transmission Fluid Color Tell You?

by Blair Nicole PR, Marketing

Do you know what the different types of fluids are in your vehicle and what color they should be? One of the fluids found in all vehicles is the transmission fluid. Like motor oil, this fluid serves a purpose to benefit the transmission, and allow it to properly function. Transmission fluid acts as a hydraulic, as it has the ability to manipulate the gear shifts and prevent corrosion in the transmission like a coolant for an engine. Transmission fluid is dyed in order to distinguish it from the other fluids that are under the hood. Based upon the transmission fluid color, you can determine the condition of your transmission and if any repairs are required.

Red

Fresh transmission fluid is dyed the color red. This assists with the different fluids that are rummaging throughout the mechanical parts. When the vehicle is brand new or when there has been a transmission fluid change is when this color is the brightest. As it ages, though the brightness of the red begins to fade and it becomes a fainter shade with time and wears. Most vehicles are suggested to change this oil every 50,000 miles, or two years to maintain quality fluid.

Orange/Yellow

The red color in the fluid will fade. When the transmission fluid has faced a significant change in color, from red to orange, this means that the transmission fluid is still okay, but it should be closely monitored. At this point, the fluid has begun breaking down from excessive use. While it is still preventing corrosion in the transmission, its protection span is winding down and the car owner must be ready to make a fluid change in several thousand miles. At this point, the fluid is carrying quite the collection of dirt and will continue to carry it through.

Gray/Black

Once the color is gone from the transmission fluid, and you find a gray or black substance in its place, it is time to change the fluid. In order for the transmission fluid to reach these colors, the fluid has broken down beyond its ability to protect and prevent from corrosion. The fluid is completely filled with particles, dirt, and sludge that it has filtered out of the transmission. At this point, allowing the fluid to continue through the transmission will allow the fluid to carry the dirt back through, and instead of preventing corrosion, it will be used to spread it throughout.

Have Your Transmission Fluid Color Checked Today

Whether your vehicle is brand new or new to you, maintaining this fluid is essential. If you have seen either 50,000 miles or two years with your vehicle, it is time to have your transmission fluid serviced. Because this procedure can be invasive and a higher cost than the average oil change, quality service for your vehicle is expected. Ace Auto has qualified service technicians that understand the color changes in transmission fluid and when the time comes for it to be changed. Contact us here today to schedule a service.