Keeping your vehicle properly maintained is essential for performance and longevity. The transmission, sitting at the heart of your vehicle's mechanics, is particularly affected. Whether you have a manual or automatic gearbox, choosing the right oil plays a fundamental role in keeping it running smoothly. Both types of transmission require specific lubricants suited to their mechanisms and demands. Do you want to know whether you can put automatic transmission fluid in a manual gearbox? Read on for everything you need to know about gearbox oil!
Gearbox Oil: Which Should You Choose for a Manual or Automatic Gearbox?
Manual and automatic gearboxes have very different lubrication requirements. If your vehicle has a manual gearbox, you cannot use automatic transmission fluid, and vice versa. For a manual gearbox, the correct lubricant is known as manual transmission oil. This oil is designed to withstand the extreme pressures and high temperatures generated by moving gears. It has anti-wear and anti-foam properties that protect metal components and ensure smooth gear changes. An automatic gearbox, on the other hand, requires a specific fluid known as automatic transmission fluid. This fluid is lighter and has different properties. It acts not only as a lubricant but also as a hydraulic fluid to operate the gearbox's clutches and brakes. It also contains additives that protect against oxidation and corrosion, whilst keeping seals in good condition. Using oil that is unsuitable for your vehicle can cause serious and costly damage to your gearbox. That is why you should always refer to the manufacturer's handbook to find out which oil is correct for your vehicle's transmission.Why Should You Change Your Gearbox Oil?
Changing your gearbox oil regularly helps to ensure your vehicle runs reliably and lasts longer. On one hand, oil provides optimal lubrication for the gears and internal components, reducing friction and wear. Over time, metal particles and debris can build up in the oil, which can cause abrasion and potential damage to parts. Clean oil allows for smoother, more responsive gear changes, improving the overall driving experience. On the other hand, oil also plays a role in dissipating the heat generated by the gears during operation. Worn oil can lose its properties, potentially leading to overheating and deterioration of seals and internal components.How Can You Tell If Your Gearbox Oil Is Worn?
Worn gearbox oil can show itself through several signs:- difficulty changing gear, such as unusual resistance when shifting or gears jumping during a gear change;
- abnormal noises: grinding or rattling;
- reduced performance: increased response times, power loss, or difficulty accelerating normally, for example;
- visual signs: healthy oil is usually red or amber. If it turns dark brown or black, or has a gritty texture, it needs to be changed.
How Often Should You Change Your Gearbox Oil?
The first oil change on a manual gearbox is generally recommended at around 100,000 km. For subsequent changes, it is recommended to carry out maintenance every 50,000 to 100,000 km, depending on the model, or every 5 years. For an automatic transmission, the oil should be changed every 60,000 km, or every 25,000 to 50,000 km for certain models. It is worth noting that these figures are averages and can vary considerably depending on the vehicle model and driving conditions. To keep your vehicle reliable, it is recommended that you:- consult the owner's handbook for precise information specific to your model, including the correct gearbox oil;
- take your driving conditions into account (town, motorway, climate);
- check the oil level from time to time;
- keep an eye out for the signs of oil wear mentioned above.
Also read: When Should You Change Your Gearbox Oil?
