What Is Transmission Fluid Made of?

Transmission fluid is used to lubricate all of the parts of your car's transmission. In cars with automatic transmissions, transmission fluid is important because it serves as a coolant as well as helps to deliver power to the wheels.

Types

Automatic transmission fluid is made up of synthetic liquids and oils combined with chemical compounds. Manual transmission fluid is made up of motor oil, gear oil and sometimes automatic transmission fluid, according to Car Talk.

Benefits

Transmission fluids are created to help your engine and transmission operate at peak performance. Car Talk recommends you change your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.

Identification

Transmission fluid is usually dyed red or green to help mechanics tell the difference between it and other fluids in the car. However, every car requires a specific type of transmission fluid to operate.

References

• Car Talk: Transmission Fluid
• Chrysler: What Consumers Need to Know About ATF+4