Automatic Transmission Filter Replacement

Oil and the filter element are the most important components in an automatic transmission system. Transmission fluid is the basis for the performance of automatic transmission units. It lubricates rubbing parts and transmits pressure. The filter stands guard, retaining metal particles and debris, keeping the lubricant clean. A lack of transmission fluid or a clogged filter often causes breakdowns. Because of this seemingly minor problem:

• the load on the oil pump increases;
• friction discs burn out;
• temperature rises;
• lubrication starvation occurs;
• metal parts wear out faster;
• the valve body and solenoids become clogged;
• the hydraulic system jams.

Automatic Transmission Filter Replacement

Fine metal shavings gradually accumulate in the automatic transmission fluid, which leads to early transmission repair. Magnets in the oil pan do not retain all the shavings, and an oil filter is used to remove them.

Previously, the valve body and oil filter in the transmission did not require maintenance during normal operation – the manufacturer anticipated a long service life for these components. With the development of more modern, technological automatic transmissions, the load on the mechanisms increased, as there was a need to handle higher engine powers. Accordingly, now the oil and filter in the automatic transmission need to be changed. On average, replacement is required every 50-60 thousand km. Both oil and filter are changed simultaneously to exclude problems with the transmission due to remaining shavings and expensive repairs.

Therefore, during technical maintenance at a service center, it is advisable to change the automatic transmission oil filter – this procedure is now mandatory for almost all cars. There are exceptions, but cars with an automatic transmission that does not require constant maintenance are very rare.

Why the filter gets clogged and how to avoid it

The filter gets clogged naturally. Metal components produce shavings over time, and debris enters through the radiator. All this could get into the oil if not for the filtering component. It circulates the fluid, trapping debris.

The speed of clogging depends on several factors:

• the type of filter itself (paper and metal types exist),
• the degree of load on the transmission,
• the frequency and method of transmission operation,
• the temperature regime in the automatic transmission system, etc.

The filter does not clog immediately, but gradually. But when the blockage is critical and the element is physically unable to hold it, the filter tears. All the debris gets into the oil, and the oil washes over all the transmission parts. The result can be disastrous.

It is impossible to avoid clogging of the filtering component. This is a natural process. But malfunctions can be avoided by timely replacement of oil and filter. And upon detection of the first symptoms of breakage, immediately contact MB Master service station.

Main symptoms of a clogged automatic transmission filter

• when shifting gears, a strong jolt is felt. At the same time, the car does not move either forward or backward;
• when shifting modes, there is no jolt, but there is slippage or the car still does not start moving;
• at high gears, one of them sticks;
• the clutch slips when shifting gears.

When to change the filter

The interval for automatic transmission filter replacement is a subject of debate even among the most knowledgeable mechanics. There is an opinion that filters and oil do not need to be changed at all, as the automatic transmission stops functioning normally after maintenance. In most cases, this is due to long intervals between visits to the mechanic and poor cleaning of the transmission during work. Because of this, sediment forms on the housing walls. After replacement, fresher oil under normal pressure picks up even large fractions of sediment. Frequent automatic transmission maintenance, for example, every 20-30 thousand km, will not harm. But this is quite an expensive car care, especially if there are factory nuances and difficult access to the transmission.

• Therefore, it is advisable to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and reduce the mileage between replacements if the car has been operated in harsh conditions or has been standing still for too long.

Which filter is optimal for replacement

The best option is an original. But in our realities, it is not always possible to find one. Especially if the car is not new. Therefore, choose a quality alternative, focusing on the cost. A cheap filter means a big headache in the future.

If you cannot decide, do not know which filter to buy, our service station specialists will help you with the choice. Contact us and we will recommend the optimal filter option suitable for your car’s automatic transmission.

How is the automatic transmission filter replaced?