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What Can Cause The Transmission Noise After Fluid Change

ByTsukasa Azuma-May 11, 2024

Transmission- a power supplier to the entire vehicle needs to be lubricated persistently. The transmission fluid ensures that transmission runs smoothly. After a while, the fluid becomes older and needs to be replaced. But, there are certain cases when you can hear transmission noises even after the fluid changes. So, what can be the reasons that result in transmission noise after fluid change? The answer to this question is right here.

So, let’s explore it!

Why it Generates Transmission Noise after Fluid Change?

You can prevent transmission noises after the fluid change by knowing about its causes. The two basic reasons why this happened are mentioned below.

1. Traditional transmission fluid

The traditional fluid systems are based on petroleum that leaves the dump behind. As the dump starts collecting on the filter, it curbs transmission and results in greater friction. The friction ultimately becomes a reason for transmission noise after fluid change.

The availability of various synthetic transmission fluids is a true savior. The synthetic fluid is formulated in such a way that every component of transmission stays lubricated and efficiently. Therefore, using synthetic fluid will avoid those clunky noises from the transmission for sure. If nothing happens even after switching to synthetic fluid, the next reason would help you.

Important points to know when you check the fluid in cars. (Photo: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

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2. Stain on the inside system

The old transmission fluid is the reason for debris collection and discoloration. The fragments start collecting inside the system. The worst part is the debris doesn’t stick to any portion of the transmission indeed, it floats on the fluid all the time.

Even if you have replaced the old fluid with the new one, the fragments would still float inside the fluid. As the day passes, the entire transmission system becomes slushy which eventually, results in annoying noises from the transmission. The experts suggest cleaning your transmission before adding new fluid/oil would prevent debris collection. It helps the system to run faster and the filter isn’t clogged.

3. Air bubbles in the fluid 

During a fluid change, air can get trapped in the transmission system. Air bubbles can cause noise and affect the transmission’s performance. To remove air bubbles, some vehicles require a specific procedure called “transmission fluid bleeding” or “transmission fluid priming.”

4. Pre-existing transmission issues

Sometimes, a fluid change can reveal underlying problems with the transmission that were not apparent before. The fresh fluid can make existing issues more noticeable, such as worn-out components or damaged gears. In such cases, it’s recommended to have the transmission inspected by a professional to diagnose and address the problem.

5. Transmission fluid conditions

If your new transmission fluid is contaminated with the dirt or debris that accumulated over time in the fluid tank it can cause noise and potential damage to the transmission components. It’s essential to use clean fluid and ensure that the transmission system is free from contaminants before adding the new fluid.

How Much Does It Cost To Change The Transmission Fluid?

The regular fluid change would not hurt your pockets at all. You can buy ten-ounce synthetic fluid for almost $20. However, the price may vary from seller to seller. In case you find it complicated to replace old fluid with the new one, you can take your vehicle to the nearest mechanic store as well. Moreover, the right maintenance tips help handle any hazardous situation while replacing the fluid.

Procedure for refilling the fluid in cars. (Photo: CarParts.com)

Overall, as a rough estimate, a basic transmission fluid change can range from $80 to $250. However, this is just an approximate range, and the actual cost could be higher or lower based on the factors mentioned above. It’s always a good idea to contact local service centers or mechanics to get specific quotes for your vehicle.

So, now that you know the major causes of noisy transmission, use the suggestions and have the best driving experience forever.

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In a Nutshell

The transmission and engine warm up in the same way. The procedure of draining and refilling the transmission fluid might leave numerous loopholes to annoying noises. All you have to do is find the right cause. The above reasons can help you handle the situation and you can increase the durability of your vehicle.

You can consult experts if none of the reasons causes transmission noise after fluid change.

Tsukasa Azuma is an awesome car blogger of Car From Japan. He owns a car repair shop at downtown Osaka, and he put all that experience to good use in his sharing posts. Tsukasa’s blog is one of the best resources for information about keeping your favorite imported car running smoothly. Moreover, because of being passionate to learn about the recent happenings in auto industry, he doesn’t only provide great car maintenance tips, he also always updates latest trends in among car brands and share them in his own interesting viewpoint.

Comments

Stefan Bradley23:11 July 29, 2019
Reply

Thanks for mentioning how old transmission fluid can cause strain inside the system. My wife’s car har been having a hard time running recently, and we need to find a way to fix it. We’ll speak with a car transmission repair service soon.

Hiep14:25 October 28, 2018
Reply

Dear sir
I have car suzuki ertiga. Automatic transmission, atf used aw1.
So, sometime, have shock clunking noise when i shift from r to n. Only from r to n
Wheb atf is cool, rarely happen, when atf is hot 80 degreeC. Often happen
You can help me to find out reason.
Thanks
Hiep, vietnam