Is Transmission Fluid Flammable? [When Heated]

There are many fluids you use for your car. Coolants, lubricants, wiper fluid, and transmission fluid. The only flammable fluid your car contains is fuel. 

All other fluids, including engine oil, are not considered flammable. For a fluid to be considered flammable, it should have a flashpoint of below 100°F.

Transmission fluid is not flammable since it has a higher flashpoint than 100°F. It should still be handled with caution because it could ignite when exposed to higher temperatures. 

This fluid is considered combustible and not flammable. The main difference is that flammable fluids burn at room temps and combustible fluids need higher heat sources to ignite.

Car Fluids and Function

The first important fluid in a car is engine oil. This is responsible for lubricating the moving parts of the engine.

It also cools these parts down and acts as a protective coating. Everything from pistons, gears, pumps, timing chains, and valves benefits from engine oil.

Transmission fluid has similar functions as engine oil but for your transmission. It helps the shifting process be smoother and easier. 

Engine coolant lowers the overall temperature of the engine. It prevents it from overheating, especially when put through heavy work. 

Brake fluid works as a lubricant for your vehicle’s brake system. It contributes to the hydraulic power needed for the system to perform well.

Other fluids include differential oil, window wiper fluid, power steering fluid, and hydraulic clutch fluid. Remember that none of these are flammable, but some are combustible.

Maintenance

These fluids need routine replacement to avoid damage to your vehicle. They should preferably be replaced every 6 months or when you hit 5,000 miles.

You can do this yourself or bring it to a mechanic shop and pay $135 to $300 for a complete fluid replacement. These fluids aren’t expensive; most of these you can buy per quart, around $50 to $100. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I change Air Filters?

Vehicle owners should change their engine’s air filters regularly. If engine filters get dirty, the air intake is compromised, negatively affecting the engine’s power. 

It should be changed or cleaned every 30,000 miles. It can also depend on how often you use your vehicle. 

When should I replace my car battery?

Today’s car batteries are built to last around three to five years. Their lifespan depends on alit of factors such as hot or cool climates.

If your headlights start to dim and your vehicle experiences trouble starting, it may be a sign to change the batteries. You can buy a battery for as low as $50, and it can go as high as  $350. 

How do I know if my car has problems?

Fortunately, modern cars have a bunch of signal lights on the dashboard. Each of these has a specific purpose. 

It is best to know the meaning of each icon, so you know which part of your vehicle needs fixing. Engine problems, oil changes, lack of water, and overheating are some of the icons you can find on the dashboard. 

When should I get my tires rotated?

Getting your tires rotated is important because it makes them wear out more evenly. It is when you switch your front tires to the back.

This is usually done for vehicles on two-wheel-drive or vehicles that go off-road. Their tires tend not to experience the same amount of wear and tear. 

The tire rotation process should be done every 5,000 to 7,000 miles. A good way to remember it is by doing it while you get the vehicle’s oil changed.