Transmission and Differential Care: Protecting Your Gearbox

While vehicle owners rarely forget engine oil changes, transmission and differential systems are often neglected until expensive mechanical noise starts. These assemblies handle massive rotational forces, transferring torque from the engine to the wheels. Over time, internal heat degrades transmission fluids and gear oils, leading to gear slippage, solenoid failure, or teeth wear.

Automatic & CVT Transmission Fluid Service

Modern Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) are highly sensitive to fluid contamination. CVTs use a steel belt running on variable pulleys under extreme pressure. If the CVTF fluid loses its friction coefficients, the belt slips, destroying the transmission. We recommend changing CVT fluid every 40,000 km.

Standard automatic gearboxes (torque converter type) require ATF changes every 40,000 to 60,000 km. If you experience shifting delays or jerks, your fluid may be burnt or depleted of crucial cleaning additives.

Differential and Transfer Case Gear Oils

For SUVs, trucks, and rear-wheel-drive cars, the differential contains heavy hypoid gears that operate under extreme pressure conditions. The gear oil (typically SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 GL-5) must be replaced every 40,000 km.

If you drive through deep flooded water during monsoon season, water can enter the differential vents, turning the oil into a milky, non-lubricating emulsion. A quick differential oil flush at TDC after heavy flooding is essential to prevent bearing failure.