Do you have to change the transmission fluid?

Do you have to change the transmission fluid?

The dealer may argue that the transmission is “sealed” and never requires a fluid change. Even “sealed” components, aren’t actually sealed. The dealer wouldn’t change the entire transmission for a rear seal leak would they? And they still have to add fluid after that seal change, right? Or they may say, sure, we can do that, it costs $XXX.00.

When to do a ” drain and fill ” transmission fluid?

With a drain and fill, you are only removing about half of the fluid from the transmission via the drain bolt, replacing it, and then adding the same amount of new fluid that came out. Then, drive the car for a day or two, drain the fluid again, and replace with new fluid. The idea here is that you’re weening the car off the old fluid.

Why is it risky to change transmission fluid in high mileage cars?

Why is it risky to change transmission fluid in high-mileage cars? If the fluid has never been changed, it might be contaminated by products of wear. In a worn-out transmission, these products of wear can temporarily “seal” various pistons and O-rings. Once all the dirt is flushed out, the transmission may start slipping or shifting differently.

How long does a transmission last with new oil?

Most any transmission will last at least 200,000 with the oil that came from the factory. Just leave it alone and drive it. If you’ve gone close to 100,000 or more and change it at this point you’ll do more damage than good. Most transmissions with new oil at that point die shortly after.

Do you really need to change the transmission fluid?

There are many fluids that run throughout your vehicle, but one of the most important to keep track of is the transmission fluid. Whether or not you should change it is not a matter of debate: Yes, you should.

What causes transmission fluid to deteriorate over time?

Like other vital automotive fluids, transmission fluid deteriorates over time. Hard use — such as frequent stop-and-go city driving, hauling heavy loads and trailer towing — will accelerate the deterioration. That kind of driving raises the transmission’s operating temperature, and heat puts more strain on the transmission and the fluid.

Most any transmission will last at least 200,000 with the oil that came from the factory. Just leave it alone and drive it. If you’ve gone close to 100,000 or more and change it at this point you’ll do more damage than good. Most transmissions with new oil at that point die shortly after.

What’s the best way to check your transmission fluid?

1 Use your owner’s manual to find the recommended procedure for checking your transmission fluid. 2 Park the vehicle on a level surface for the most accurate reading. 3 Be cautious of engine cooling fans that may continue to run after the engine is off, as well as hot engine components; many cars recommend that the engine and