Does a Manual Transmission Need Transmission Fluid Replacement?
2 Answers
Manual transmissions do require transmission fluid replacement, typically every 3 years or after driving approximately 80,000 to 100,000 kilometers. There isn't a fixed interval for changing manual transmission fluid because manual transmissions have a simpler structure and more mature technology compared to automatic transmissions, resulting in lower requirements for the transmission fluid. Automatic transmissions, on the other hand, usually need fluid replacement every 2 years or around 40,000 to 60,000 kilometers, depending on the transmission's usage. If you experience issues such as rough shifting, jerking, poor acceleration, or unusual noises from the transmission, it may be due to insufficient or overly viscous transmission fluid, indicating the need for a fluid change.
Yes, manual transmissions do require gear oil changes. I've driven manual cars for many years, and when I was younger, I neglected this, resulting in a noisy transmission and difficult gear shifts. The mechanic said the oil had turned black with metal shavings and impurities, greatly reducing lubrication. Transmission oil lubricates the gears, and if not changed for a long time, it thickens and degrades, increasing gear wear and even damaging the synchronizer, leading to scary repair costs. Now I change it every 60,000 km or two years, which costs just a few hundred bucks, and the car runs much smoother afterward. Remember to check your vehicle's manual for specific recommendations—Japanese cars usually have shorter intervals, while European cars can go longer. Don't skimp on this small expense and risk major damage.
