When performing a transmission fluid change, which component must be checked for proper operation?

When performing a transmission fluid change, checking the oil filter is crucial because it plays a vital role in maintaining the cleanliness and proper function of the transmission fluid. The oil filter captures contaminants and debris that accumulate in the transmission fluid over time, ensuring that the fluid remains clean and can effectively lubricate and protect the internal components of the transmission. If the oil filter is clogged or malfunctioning, it may not adequately filter the fluid, leading to poor transmission performance and potentially causing damage.

Other components, although important in their own context, do not directly relate to the immediate need during a fluid change process. The governor assembly, for instance, is responsible for controlling the transmission's shift points based on the vehicle speed but does not directly affect the fluid's cleanliness or flow at the time of a fluid change. Similarly, the radiator is crucial for engine cooling, and the transfer case deals with power distribution in four-wheel-drive vehicles, neither of which are directly connected to the specific task of ensuring that the transmission fluid is clean and flowing properly during a fluid change. Thus, focusing on the oil filter ensures that the transmission operates smoothly after the fluid change.