If the filter fails to do its job properly, the transmission fluid will become too dirty to do its job efficiently. The purpose of the transmission filter is to keep contaminants out of the transmission fluid. Related: Why is my Transmission Fluid Leaking Contamination Signs of leaks will be noticeable on the ground when you park your car for a while (overnight, for instance), then move it. If those gaskets become loose or misaligned, fluid can leak. There are a number of seals and gaskets throughout the transmission that can develop cracks and cause a leak.

If the transmission filter is not fitted properly or there is a malfunction in the transmission itself, it could result in leaking fluid. We’ll replace the fluid, filter, and inspect your car for any other potential issues. If the filter or the fluid show signs of excessive dirt and wear, bring your car to AAMCO for a transmission flush. By checking the filter, you also get a look at the transmission fluid itself. If you hear clunking or rattling, or if the transmission shifts hard with a jarring affect, you might want to check the transmission filter. We’ll do a thorough inspection and run a Vehicle Courtesy Check to find out what is wrong and what needs to be done. If you experience any of the following symptoms, schedule an appointment with your locally owned and operated AAMCO Colorado transmission repair shop. What are signs that the transmission filter needs to be changed? This is often in a hard-to-reach area and requires special tools.

That means the transmission pan must be removed in order to reach the transmission filter and allow old fluid to drain. Changing the fluid and filter can be a messy and time-consuming job because few transmissions are equipped with a drain plug. It really depends on the make, model, and age of your vehicle, but short of between 30,000 and 100,000 miles is a pretty good window to operate within. Although every vehicle has its own maintenance schedule that can usually be found in the owner’s manual, the transmission filter and fluid should be replaced every 30,000 to 100,000 miles. Over time, tiny bits of metal and other grit and dirt build up in a transmission filter. This ensures no loss of fluid or pressure.

Seal – A rubber o-ring that seals the fit between the pickup tube and the transmission case.

Pickup Tube – A tube that connects the transmission filter assembly to the oil pump.

This ensures that no fluid escapes while it is moving through the filter.

Gasket – A rubber gasket ensures a tight seal between the transmission filter assembly and the transmission pan.

Inside the slats is a fibrous material that collects contaminants before the fluid goes into the transmission.

Transmission filter – The filter looks like a metal plate with slats.

Oftentimes there is a fluid filter kit involved that allows for some other key filtration system parts to be replaced while the transmission is open and easily accessible.

Sometimes a transmission filter change involves more than just replacing the filter. How a transmission filter works is a relatively straightforward process with few parts involved. The filter collects contaminants before letting fluid through to the transmission, stopping the buildup of sludge, which can cause excessive wear on the transmission’s moving parts. It is positioned above the transmission pan, which collects excess fluid, and below the pickup tube that connects to the oil pump, which regulates the pressure of fluid in the transmission. A transmission filter prevents dirt and debris from getting into the gears and other parts of the transmission system.

Changing transmission filter