Leaks, Noise and Slipping? The Right Oil Fixes Everything!

September 19, 2025

One of the most common problems car drivers face is noticing strange noises, oil leaks, and slippage from the gearbox. Often, these issues are considered major technical failures. But in reality, the cause is often simply the wrong transmission oil being used or not being replaced on time. Automatic transmission oils are not only designed to reduce friction but also to extend the life of the equipment, prevent leaks, and eliminate slippage. Main Causes of Automatic Transmission Problems 1. Oil Leaks Old or poor-quality oil can cause leaks. Poorly tightened seals and worn rubber rings during installation cause oil to escape. As a result of leakage, the transmission runs dry and metal-to-metal contact begins. 2. Noise from the Mechanism Dry-running gears and friction noises mainly indicate that the oil level is low or the oil has lost its quality. When the oil is dirty, metal particles increase friction noise. 3. Slippage Issue When shifting gears, if the car moves “as if in neutral,” it indicates insufficient transmission fluid. Without proper oil pressure, clutch discs slip. How the Right Oil Fixes These Problems 1. Prevents Leaks High-quality transmission oils protect rubber seals and maintain their elasticity. This prevents oil leaks. 2. Reduces Noise Oil reduces friction, preventing metal parts from “dry” operation. This makes the gearbox quieter and the driver more comfortable. 3. Stops Slippage Oil with the correct viscosity ensures proper pressure in the clutch discs. This prevents slippage and maintains stable power transmission. What to Consider When Choosing Automatic Transmission Oil Type of Oil ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) – specially made for automatic transmissions. Each car manufacturer recommends oil according to its standards (DEXRON, MERCON, ATF+4, etc.). Viscosity and Temperature Stability Choose oil that doesn’t thicken in cold weather and doesn’t thin out in hot weather. Composition and Quality High-quality synthetic oils provide long-term protection. Additives (antioxidant, anti-wear, anti-slip) extend transmission life. Importance of Changing Transmission Oil on Time Manufacturers usually recommend changing every 60,000–80,000 km. If not changed, dirt, metal shavings, and oxidation disrupt transmission function. Timely replacement saves you from costly repairs and preserves vehicle value. Practical Tips for Drivers Check transmission oil level every 10,000 km. If you notice leaks, consult a mechanic immediately. Always use the oil recommended by the manufacturer. If you smell a “burning odor” from the transmission, it means it’s time to change the oil. Conclusion: Small Cost, Big Benefits Leaks, noise, and slippage are not always major transmission failures. In most cases, the root cause is simply not using the right transmission oil. By using quality oil, your car will: Run more quietly, Reduce leaks, Eliminate slippage, Significantly extend the transmission’s lifespan. Remember: The right oil fixes everything!