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AR15.COM
5/5/2008 10:17:24 AM EDT
Last time I got my oil changed and the full check up, the Tech told me that the transmission fluid was brownish/black.  Vehicle has an automatic Transmission if that makes any difference.  

What does the dark fluid mean?  should I have it flushed and changed, or should I leave it be because the transmission fluid is in balance with the transmission?

Thanks,
Lonewolf_05
5/5/2008 10:51:56 AM EDT
[#1]
Burnt?

Smell it, and if burnt, you will know it.

In my opinion, this is one of the most overlooked service/ maintenance items.

5/5/2008 11:36:47 AM EDT
[#2]
Ill check it again the next time I can.  Vehicle is currently at home while I am at school.

What does burnt fluid mean?
5/5/2008 11:49:26 AM EDT
[#3]
Heat, which is a tranny's worst enemy.

Belts and clutches (friction discs) fail prematurely.

I am sure a transmission guy will be along shortly to get more technical.

I have my tranny serviced by the dealer. One of the few thing I do not do myself. They vacuum draw the fluid to get it out of the torque converter, lines, and cooler, during a fluid change.




Quoted:
Ill check it again the next time I can.  Vehicle is currently at home while I am at school.

What does burnt fluid mean?
5/5/2008 12:01:48 PM EDT
[#4]
What year and model is your vehicle?

Automatic transmission fluid is generally dyed red.  

When it burns, is smells like death (or dollars, depending on which side of the service counter you're standing on) and turns brown.
5/5/2008 12:09:11 PM EDT
[#5]
Vehicle is an 02 ford escape.

From what I had gathered it should be looked at or flushed... but transmission work starts to get expensive if they have to do much too it.  Just didn't want to jump the gun on getting it worked on.
5/5/2008 12:26:55 PM EDT
[#6]
Most maintenance schedules require the trans fluid to be changed every 30,000 miles.
5/5/2008 1:08:07 PM EDT
[#7]

Quoted:
Vehicle is an 02 ford escape.

From what I had gathered it should be looked at or flushed... but transmission work starts to get expensive if they have to do much too it.  Just didn't want to jump the gun on getting it worked on.


How many miles on it, and what maintenance is recommended in the owner's manual?

Take special note that most manufacturers list a basic maintenance schedule that is fairly unrealistic, unless you live in a vacuum somewhere.  So you're probably looking at the "B" or "Severe" schedule.

Also note that there is a difference between "inspecting" and "replacing" the fluid when you're reading the schedule.

There may be foot-notes.  Take the time to read them.

Let me know where you're at with these issues, and I'll give you the best answer I can.
5/6/2008 8:01:52 AM EDT
[#8]
Trans fluid should look like steak cooked medium rare. If it looks like medium well to well, it needs to be changed. (compare to food for the hive )

If you get it changed, have it done where they flush it all out, not just drain and fill.



I am a GM tech and I change mine every 30,000 miles. I don't care what "they" say about it lasting longer. Easier and cheaper to change it sooner than later.