Does a car transmission need an oil change?
2 Answers
Yes, a car transmission requires regular oil changes. If the transmission fluid is not replaced for an extended period, it can accelerate transmission wear and potentially damage the gear shift control mechanism. Repairing a damaged gear shift control mechanism can be quite troublesome, so it is recommended that car owners adhere to a regular transmission fluid replacement schedule. When changing transmission fluid, the use of a circulation machine for oil replacement is encouraged, as this method can remove over 90% of the old transmission fluid. In contrast, using the gravity drain method only removes about 60% to 70% of the old fluid. It is crucial to use the manufacturer-recommended transmission fluid during replacement, as these fluids have undergone rigorous testing by the manufacturer to ensure they meet the transmission's requirements under all operating conditions.
After driving for so many years, the transmission fluid definitely needs to be changed! The operation of gears and clutch plates inside the transmission relies entirely on the fluid for lubrication and cooling. Over time, the fluid gets dirty and deteriorates, reducing its protective effect. It's more noticeable in automatic transmission cars—delaying fluid changes can lead to rough shifting or even complete failure. My old car suffered from this and cost me thousands at the repair shop. Now I’ve learned my lesson and change it every 40,000 kilometers or two years at a professional shop. Manual transmission fluid is more resistant to contamination, but changing it every 60,000 kilometers is safer. Make it a habit to check the fluid level regularly; if the color changes from pink to dark, it’s time for a change—don’t wait for trouble to strike. A small maintenance step ensures smooth driving and saves money—totally worth it!
