Keeping your car’s transmission in top shape starts with the right automatic transmission fluid (ATF). Over time, ATF can get dirty, burnt, or low, which can make shifting rough and even damage your transmission.
Knowing when to change your ATF is key to avoiding costly repairs and keeping your ride smooth. At Fubex Lubricants, we offer high-quality automatic transmission fluids for all types of engines. Enjoy fast shipping, a price match guarantee, and no-questions-asked returns. Need help choosing the right oil? Call us at +971 50 544 9614 — our friendly team is ready to assist!
Awais I., Sales Director, says, “Using high-quality automatic transmission fluid is key to keeping your transmission healthy — it ensures smooth shifting, reduces wear, and protects your car even under tough driving conditions.”
In this guide, we’ll cover the signs your fluid needs changing, the benefits of fresh ATF, and our top picks for the best automatic transmission fluids. Whether you’re doing it yourself or calling a pro, this guide has everything you need to keep your transmission running like new.
Things You Should Know When Changing Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
If you want to change your automatic transmission fluid at home, there are a few easy things you should remember.
The Fluid Color Matters
Fresh ATF is bright red and has a light, sweet smell. This means it’s clean and healthy for your car. But if the fluid looks dark, smoky, or almost black — and smells burnt — it’s time to replace it. You can check this using the dipstick. Pull it out, wipe it, dip it back in, and look at the color.
Check the Fluid Level
The dipstick also helps you see how much fluid you have. If the level is low, your transmission won’t work smoothly. Just fill it up to the recommended mark, and your vehicle will run better and stay safe.
Drain-and-Fill (The DIY Method)
This method is exactly what the name says. You open the drain plug, let the old fluid flow out, and then pour in fresh fluid. But remember, this only replaces about 40–60% of the total fluid because the rest stays inside the torque converter and cooler lines. Still, this is the safest and best method for people doing it at home.
Flushing Is Important When the Oil Is Burnt
ATF changes color when it gets too hot or collects dirt and tiny metal pieces over time. If you don’t flush out the old burnt fluid before adding new fluid, the dirt can move through the system. This is risky because those particles can damage important parts. So, if the fluid is burnt, make sure to flush everything clean.
Don’t Forget the Torque Converter
Many people clean the transmission pan and replace the filter, but beginners often forget the torque converter. A lot of the burnt ATF and dirt stays inside this part. You should also clean the valve body and clutch drums if you want the transmission to work its best after the oil change.
Seal the Pan the Right Way
If you see small dents around the bolt holes of the pan, use a hammer and dolly to make them flat again. If you skip this step, the pan gasket might leak later. You can also use a thin layer of gasket sealer for extra safety, but don’t use silicone. Silicone can break off and block the pump intake, which can cause even more problems.
Change the Oil for the Automatic Gearbox Regularly
Changing your automatic transmission fluid on time helps your car last longer. A common rule is to change it every 30,000 miles or 30 months. But the best idea is to check your owner’s manual. It gives the correct schedule for your car because every vehicle is different.
How you use your car also matters. If you tow heavy loads or drive in very hot weather, you may need to change the fluid every year to keep everything running smoothly.
Warning Signs: When You Should Stop and Call a Pro
Some problems are too risky to handle on your own. Stop right away and call a professional if you notice:
- The old fluid is dark brown or black and smells strongly burnt.
- You see big metal pieces on the magnet. (A soft gray paste is normal, but big chunks are not.)
- You feel even a little confused about how to check the fluid level or how the process works.
It’s better to be safe than damage your whole transmission.
Is Changing the Transmission Fluid an Easy DIY Job?
For most car owners, changing transmission fluid isn’t as simple as changing engine oil. It often requires ramps, jack stands, or even a lift. You also need to know how to locate the transmission fluid pan and drain plug, which takes some skill.
Many modern cars have sealed transmissions that need special tools or a dealer’s computer to check fluid temperature and other settings, making DIY changes very tricky. If you still want to try it yourself, there are some important tips to follow to do the job safely.
Best Automatic Transmission Fluids: Our Picks
Discover the top automatic transmission fluids that keep your car shifting smoothly and running longer. Don’t miss our expert picks to find the perfect fluid for your vehicle!
Fubex Velomax CVT Fluid
Fubex Velomax CVT Fluid is made with high-quality base oils and smart additives to keep your CVT running strong. It gives smooth, vibration-free shifting and protects your gearbox from wear and rust. Even in high heat or tough conditions, it stays stable and performs well.
It also meets the needs of many Japanese and European CVT systems. Just remember, it’s not for hybrid vehicles because they need a special type of fluid.
Fubex Velora Dexron-IV
One of our most trusted ATF options is Fubex Velora Dexron-IV, and for good reason. This synthetic fluid is made with high-quality base oils that help your transmission shift smoothly and run better. It’s designed especially for ZF 6-speed automatic transmissions and also works well for brands like Audi Quattro.
It protects the moving parts by reducing friction and preventing wear. Even in high heat or tough conditions, it stays strong and keeps your transmission stable.
Fubex Velora Dexron – lV ATF
Your search for a reliable ATF ends with Fubex Velora Type A ATF. This special fluid is made for automatic gearboxes that need GM Type “A” oil, and it also works well in power-shift systems, industrial machines, and manual transmissions that need a thinner fluid.
It helps protect important parts from wearing out, stops rust and corrosion, and keeps foam low so your gears shift smoothly. If you want steady,
Fubex Auto X2 Dexron-II D ATF
Fubex Auto X2 Dexron-II D ATF is made to keep your automatic transmission running smoothly. It protects moving parts, reduces friction, and helps transfer power from the engine to the wheels. This fluid stays strong even in high heat and prevents wear and tear. For a reliable, long-lasting transmission, Dexron-II D is a smart choice.
Final Takeaways
Changing your automatic transmission fluid is very important for keeping your car healthy. It helps your transmission last longer and work better. Always follow the schedule in your owner’s manual and use the right type of ATF for your car. That’s the safest way to avoid problems.
You should also watch for signs like dark fluid or rough shifting. These can tell you the fluid is old and needs to be changed. When you replace the ATF on time, you can avoid expensive repairs and keep your car running smoothly for many years.
FAQs
Q1: What type of Automatic Transmission Fluid should I use?
Always use the ATF that your vehicle’s manual recommends. Using the wrong fluid can harm your transmission. There are different types like Dexron, Mercon, and CVT fluid, so choose the one meant for your car.
Q2: How do I check my transmission fluid level?
Check your owner’s manual for the exact steps. Most cars need you to check the fluid while the engine is running and the transmission is warm. Follow the steps carefully.
Q3: Can changing ATF help my car use less fuel?
Yes! Fresh ATF helps the transmission work smoothly, which can improve fuel efficiency. If the transmission struggles, your car uses more fuel.
Q4: Should I do a full ATF flush or just a normal fluid change?
A normal change replaces some of the fluid. A flush replaces most of it. What you need depends on your car’s condition. A flush cleans out more dirt, but not every car needs it.
Q5: How do I safely get rid of the old ATF?
Take old ATF to a recycling center or a hazardous-waste place. Don’t dump it outside — it can harm soil, plants, and water.
Q6: What if I accidentally used the wrong ATF?
If you used the wrong fluid, get a professional to flush it out and add the right one. This helps protect your transmission from damage.
Q7: Can I tow a trailer right after changing ATF?
It’s better to drive your car for a short time first. This helps the new fluid spread properly and lets you check for leaks before towing anything heavy.
Editor-at-Large
A passionate writer in the lubricant industry, Awais Iqbal has been covering oils, greases, and industrial fluids since the start of his career. At 25, he’s already written for blogs, catalogs, and brand guides across the UAE. Awais’s insights help companies connect with their audience, and his clear, helpful writing style is trusted by brands in the region.
