Image via Larsen Auto Center. When you get a transmission fluid service from your Chevy dealer, you can expect your vehicle to run more smoothly. Here's what goes into that service and how to know it's time. more What It Does Transmission fluid performs a similar function to motor oil in general. It's viscous and thick, and it lubricates all the gears within the transmission so they don't grind against each other. Over time, that fluid breaks down under the heat and friction of use, and that's why you sometimes have to get your transmission fluid changed out. Transmission Service Fluid Change The most basic service for your transmission is just to change its fluid. The drain plug is removed, the old fluid is drained out, we check the plug to make sure that there are no leaks, and then we refill your transmission with fresh, clean transmission fluid that meets your Chevy's specs. Fluid and Filter Replacement Your transmission also has a filter for the fluid to run through, and this is meant to prolong the life of the fluid by removing dirt, debris, and metal shavings. Naturally, this eventually fills up, so we will sometimes need to replace the filter for you and possibly replace the material in the gasket. Comprehensive Service Sometimes you need a more comprehensive service, and when that happens, not only do the fluids and filters get changed, but also each individual component of the transmission is inspected to make sure everything is working as it should. How to Tell You Need Transmission Service You Have Gear Slippage If you notice that your car seems to slip out of gear, especially when it's going up a hill, you need us to take a look at your transmission. You've Reached the Right Maintenance Interval Your Chevy owner's manual will have maintenance intervals for everything in the vehicle, including the transmission. Don't neglect these, as keeping up with maintenance is the best way to ensure you never have any issues with your transmission. You're Not Able to Smoothly Shift If your car is an automatic, you should barely even notice the shifts from gear to gear. If you're starting to feel a clunk, or it becomes very noticeable when the car changes gears, there's a problem. If you're driving a manual, you may notice that it feels hard to get into the required gear. For transmission service you can count on, come visit our Service Department here at Larsen Auto Center in Frederic, WI today.