What is a transmission filter for?
A transmission filter prevents dirt and debris from getting into the gears and other parts of the transmission system. 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. 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.
How does a transmission filter work?
How a transmission filter works is a relatively straightforward process with few parts involved. Sometimes a transmission filter change involves more than just replacing the filter. 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. These parts include:
- Transmission filter – The filter looks like a metal plate with slats. Inside the slats is a fibrous material that collects contaminants before the fluid goes into the transmission.
- Gasket – A rubber gasket ensures a tight seal between the transmission filter assembly and the transmission pan. This ensures that no fluid escapes while it is moving through the filter.
- Pickup Tube – A tube that connects the transmission filter assembly to the oil pump.
- Seal – A rubber o-ring that seals the fit between the pickup tube and the transmission case. This ensures no loss of fluid or pressure.
When do you change the filter?
Over time, tiny bits of metal and other grit and dirt build up in a transmission filter. 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. 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. Changing the fluid and filter can be a messy and time-consuming job because few transmissions are equipped with a drain plug. That means the transmission pan must be removed in order to reach the transmission filter and allow old fluid to drain. This is often in a hard-to-reach area and requires special tools.
What are signs that the transmission filter needs to be changed?
If you experience any of the following symptoms, schedule an appointment with your locally owned and operated AAMCO Colorado transmission repair shop. We’ll do a thorough inspection and run a Vehicle Courtesy Check to find out what is wrong and what needs to be done.
Noise
If you hear clunking or rattling, or if the transmission shifts hard with a jarring affect, you might want to check the transmission filter. By checking the filter, you also get a look at the transmission fluid itself. If the filter or the fluid show signs of excessive dirt and wear, bring your car to AAMCO for a transmission flush. We’ll replace the fluid, filter, and inspect your car for any other potential issues.
Leaking
If the transmission filter is not fitted properly or there is a malfunction in the transmission itself, it could result in leaking fluid. There are a number of seals and gaskets throughout the transmission that can develop cracks and cause a leak. If those gaskets become loose or misaligned, fluid can leak. Signs of leaks will be noticeable on the ground when you park your car for a while (overnight, for instance), then move it.
Related: Why is my Transmission Fluid Leaking [INFOGRAPHIC]
Contamination
The purpose of the transmission filter is to keep contaminants out of the transmission fluid. If the filter fails to do its job properly, the transmission fluid will become too dirty to do its job efficiently. If dirt and sludge reach a critical level, it can burn and even lead to costly transmission repairs. Check the transmission fluid regularly, both for correct level and for color. If it’s not reddish in color and fairly clear or clean looking, it’s time to consider a transmission fluid flush.
Can’t Change Gears
If you’re unable to change gears easily (from park into drive, reverse, etc.), or the transmission struggles to change gears either while you are moving or parked, there might be a problem with the transmission filter. If the gears grind for no reason or the vehicle surges when the gears are changed, the problem may be a result of a dirty or malfunctioning transmission filter. This is something you want to have checked out immediately by a certified transmission technician. Schedule an appointment now.
Burning Smell or Smoke
When the filter has become blocked with particles, dirt, and sludge, it can result in a burning smell – especially if the transmission fluid itself needs to be change. In extreme cases, a clogged filter that is causing a burning smell can result in smoke coming from the engine.
Related: When Good Cars Smell Bad
AAMCO Colorado Keeps You Informed
At AAMCO Colorado we take great care to keep you informed about your car and all its systems, as well as keep your car on the road with scheduled maintenance services and repairs, including full transmission repairs and rebuilds.
If you are experiencing any problems with your car, bring it to your local AAMCO Colorado Transmission and Total Car Care center for a complete Vehicle Courtesy Check. We’ll help you keep your car running reliably and safely through all seasons, all weather.
If you have questions about your car’s transmission, road readiness, or about car repair and maintenance topics, AAMCO Colorado can help. You can also go online and use the AAMCO Colorado Ask a Mechanic feature to submit your auto repair questions. They will be answered by a real AAMCO Colorado mechanic as soon as possible.
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Take Care of Your Transmission
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My Jeep Lexus 330 blink maint” 7times after I changed transmission oil, what could have gone wrong?
Olagoke,
Unfortunately, we can not diagnose your vehicle without seeing it in one of our service centers. If you are local to Colorado stop by one of 14 Colorado AAMCO Service centers and we can perform a free diagnostic check on your vehicle where we can access any repair needs your vehicle may have. You can also contact one of our mechanics directly by using our Ask A Mechanic feature.
Thanks,
AAMCO Colorado
Thank you, I had a problem with my premio. Could not engage gears from parking or could move for about 10m and loose acceleration. After replacing the filter it worked well.
My Honda pilot 2007 model can no move with the right gear. It starts with the D blinking always and moves with third gear.
Can it be the fault of the transmission filter ?
Richard,
Unfortunately, we can not diagnose your vehicle without seeing it in one of our service centers. However, any issue where your car is not going into gear can certainly be indicative of a larger transmission issue. If you are local to Colorado stop by one of 14 Colorado AAMCO Service centers and we can perform a free diagnostic check on your vehicle where we can access any repair needs your vehicle may have. You can also contact one of our mechanics directly by using our Ask A Mechanic feature.
Thanks,
AAMCO Colorado
I have a premio 2003 model, my problem Is when I engage D or R I makes a huge shake move I replaced all the engine mounts but still didnt solve the problem and am being advised to replace a new gearbox.. Can someone pls help… Thank you
Is it normal if the engine and transmision vibrates at the same time even the car is parked
It would be best to talk to a trusted mechanic about whether or not this is a normal amount of vibration. Unfortunately, we can not diagnose your vehicle without seeing it in one of our service centers. If you are local to Colorado stop by one of 14 Colorado AAMCO Service centers and we can perform a free diagnostic check on your vehicle where we can access any repair needs your vehicle may have.
Thanks,
AAMCO Colorado
My nissan Altima 08 find it hard to move on hills, but moves very smoothly on a level ground…the gear changes very good.what could be the problem
Endy,
Trouble moving up hills could indicate a number of problems, within your transmission system or elsewhere. We suggest finding a trusted mechanic to run a diagnostic for you. Unfortunately, we can not diagnose your vehicle without seeing it in one of our service centers. If you are local to Colorado stop by one of 14 Colorado AAMCO Service centers and we can perform a free diagnostic check on your vehicle where we can access any repair needs your vehicle may have.
Thanks,
AAMCO Colorado
Thadeo,
Shaking or jerking can indicate an issue within your transmission system. Unfortunately, we can not diagnose your vehicle without seeing it in one of our service centers. If you are local to Colorado stop by one of 14 Colorado AAMCO Service centers and we can perform a free diagnostic check on your vehicle where we can access any repair needs your vehicle may have.
Thanks,
AAMCO Colorado
Please my Honda CRV 2008 transmission can stop after few meters when hot even though the engine would be running, I have not changed the transmission oil for a year and half and it becomes noisy in engaging and make hard noise in reverse transmission. Could it be the oil and filter or the gear is bad?
Hello,
If you think you are having an issue with transmission fluid, it is best to see a trusted mechanic for a diagnostic test. Unfortunately, we can not diagnose your vehicle without seeing it in one of our service centers. If you are local to Colorado stop by one of 14 Colorado AAMCO Service centers and we can perform a free diagnostic check on your vehicle where we can access any repair needs your vehicle may have.
Thanks,
AAMCO Colorado
My question is:
The transmission filter on my 2004 Isuzu Diesel NPR w4500HD becomes so hot you can barely touch it. In a short amount of time. The color looks a little dark so going to change it. Because it was running low I topped it off with some transmission oil. Need to double check if it was the correct one. I specifically asked when purchasing the oil at my local napa. Going to change it and my filter before I continue. What’s up?
Jay,
Thanks for your question.
If your transmission fluid color looks dark, this could indicate a problem within your transmission system. If you think you have put the wrong transmission fluid into your car, we highly suggest seeing a qualified mechanic to diagnose this, and they will likely suggest a full fluid flush. Unfortunately, we can not diagnose your vehicle without seeing it in one of our service centers. If you are local to Colorado stop by one of 15 Colorado AAMCO Service centers and we can perform a free diagnostic check on your vehicle where we can access any repair needs your vehicle may have. If you have additional questions, be sure to check out our “Ask a Mechanic” feature, where you can email in your question to one of our AAMCO Colorado mechanics.
Thanks,
AAMCO Colorado