Last Updated on October 17, 2022
Cleaning transmission fluid off of an engine can seem like a daunting task, but it can be done relatively quickly with the right tools and instructions.
This guide will walk you through the steps necessary on how to clean transmission fluid off engine and get it running like new again.
What Is Transmission Fluid, And What Does It Do?
Transmission fluid is a lubricant that helps transmit power from the engine to the wheels. It also cools and cleans as it goes, transferring heat away from vital components.
The most important thing about transmission fluid is that it does not mix with engine oil, so if you have transmission fluid leaking into your engine or vice versa, then there is a severe problem with your vehicle.
It is essential to get this problem fixed right away, as it can cause permanent damage to the engine and make the car undrivable.
Step-by-step Instructions on How to Clean Transmission Fluid Off Engine?
Listed below are our steps for cleaning up transmission fluid that is leaking onto the motor:
Step 1: Get Rid of Excess Fluid
You will need to get rid of all the excess fluid to avoid making a bigger mess while cleaning your engine. Transmission fluid is not great for rubber or paint, so you want to prevent it from getting onto any of these surfaces.
To dispose of the excess fluid, you will want to use a wet/dry vacuum or a bucket and sponge. You can also find some specifically designed products for this purpose in most auto shops.
Step 2: Drain the Engine Oil
It is essential to drain the old engine oil to prevent contaminating the new fluid. If you don’t drain out the old oil, there is a chance that it could mix with the new transmission fluid and make your problem worse.
To access the engine oil, remove the oil cap (located on top of the engine where you would typically check your oil level) and drain it out using a suitable container.
Step 3: Remove The Transmission Drain Plug
Once you have exhausted the engine oil, you will need to drain all of the rest of the fluid that is still in your car. To do this, locate your transmission and remove the bolt/plug on it (this is where you would normally drain your transmission fluid).
Step 4: Fill The Engine with New Fluid
After you have drained out all of the old fluid, it’s time to pour in some new. Transfer the new transmission fluid into another bucket and put it next to your car. Then, remove the cap on top of your transmission and attach the hose on your new bucket to it.
Step 5: Flush Out the Old Fluid with New Fluid
Startup your engine once you have done this and turn on “Drive.” This will cause the transmission to flush out most of the old fluid from the engine. Keep flushing until there is no more draining from the bucket you have placed near where your transmission is.
Step 6: Fill Up the Rest of the Engine with New Fluid
Once you have emptied out most of the old fluid, it’s time to fill up the rest of your engine with brand new fluid. To do this, remove the hose on top of the transmission and replace it with the hose you used to pour in new fluid. Then, please turn on your car and let it run for a few minutes so the engine can get friendly and full.
Step 7: Replace the Drain Plug and Dispose of Oil Properly
Once you have poured all the new fluid into your engine, replace the drain cap/plug where you removed it from and make sure to dispose of your old engine oil at a nearby auto shop (you can find many places that will collect and recycle your oil for free).
Step 8: Test Drive
Once you’ve replaced the plug/cap and disposed of the fluid, it’s time to test drive. You should take your car for a spin to check if everything is running smoothly before you head home.
How Long Will This Process Take?
This process should take about an hour, depending on how much fluid you have to pour in and how many times you need to flush it out until the engine is full of new fluid.
Tips for Keeping Your Engine Clean in The Future
Here are a few tips to keep your engine clean in the future:
- If you are checking your oil on top of the engine, be careful not to let any droplets fall down on the motor.
- It’s best to park over an area that can easily get rinsed off if there is any transmission fluid on it (such as a grassy area)
- Always check your transmission fluid level and add more to it if necessary.
- Never service your car when it is hot, as the liquid will be much harder to handle and dispose of.
- Make sure to dispose of your waste in an eco-friendly manner.
What Mistakes Do People Make During Its Cleaning?
When you try to clean your transmission by yourself, people make a few common mistakes.
- It is essential to dispose of old fluid properly. If you don’t, it could cause problems for the environment or even people that work in the industry.
- Never use engine oil instead of transmission fluid as it is not designed for this purpose.
- If you pour too much fluid in one go, it may overflow and start to drip down the engine and potentially damage other parts of your car.
- If you flush the old fluid out too quickly, it will not allow all of the old fluid to be flushed from your engine.
- If you don’t have a car stand, make sure to put something sturdy under your car to keep it upright while you service it.
- Always wear gloves and goggles to protect your hands and eyes during the process.
Conclusion
Cleaning your transmission fluid is necessary to ensure that your engine runs smoothly.
Not only is it essential to clean the transmission fluid regularly, but you should also use the correct fluids and take caution when pouring in new fluid so that you don’t damage any other parts of your car. By following these simple steps, you can easily clean your transmission without making any costly mistakes.