Transmission fluid eventually goes through a variety of color changes during its lifespan. Understanding the different colors can help you to notice when there might be a problem with your car’s transmission. Here’s what Allman’s Automotive wants you to know.
Red Transmission Fluid Is Brand New
When transmission fluid is brand new, it’s see-through and red in color. Ideally, you shouldn’t ever see new transmission fluid. If you do, it is highly possible that you’ve got a leak somewhere in the transmission. That needs to be repaired as soon as you spot it in order to protect the transmission and ensure that it doesn’t sustain damage.
Transmission Fluid Slowly Starts to Turn Brown
As transmission fluid does its job, it slowly starts to thicken and to turn brown. That’s because it’s circulating through the transmission, collecting debris, and drawing heat from the transmission parts. That in essence “cooks” the transmission fluid over time, and you’ll see that in the changing color. While the fluid is doing its job, you shouldn’t see it under the car. If you do, that’s a problem.
Eventually, it Becomes Dark Brown or Black
When the transmission fluid is nearing the end of its usefulness, it becomes even darker brown. It may have still been somewhat see-through to this point, but as it ages it becomes more opaque. Eventually, it even turns black. That’s because the fluid is still picking up debris and becoming darker due to heat exposure. You still don’t want to see a puddle of transmission fluid, of course.
If You See Pink Transmission Fluid, That’s Really Bad
Pink transmission fluid is about the worst color that you could see. That’s because it means that water has mixed with the transmission fluid at some point. Because transmission fluid is basically an oil, water breaks it down and keeps it from doing what it’s designed to do. Water in the transmission itself is even worse news because that means that transmission parts are rusting and getting more damaged if you’re driving the car.
Noticing anything different about your car’s transmission fluid or how the transmission feels? Don’t wait to get help. Allman’s Automotive in Groveland, MA can help you to know for sure what’s going on and what your car’s transmission needs. Call us today to set up an appointment and we’ll inspect your transmission and the fluid to determine what is happening with both.
