Does the Transmission Oil Filter Need to Be Replaced?
2 Answers
The transmission oil filter needs to be replaced, and the replacement depends on the transmission oil change interval. Different vehicle models have different replacement cycles. Below are the recommended transmission oil change intervals: Manual Transmission: Manual transmission oil is generally recommended to be replaced every three years or approximately 100,000 kilometers. Automatic Transmission: Automatic transmission oil is generally recommended to be replaced every two years or approximately 40,000 kilometers. Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT): CVT transmission oil is generally recommended to be replaced every two years or approximately 60,000 kilometers. The methods for changing transmission oil are as follows: 1. Loosen the drain plug at the bottom of the transmission to drain the old oil, then refill with new oil. 2. Remove the transmission oil pan directly to drain and refill the oil: This method is more thorough than the first one, as it removes impurities from the bottom of the oil pan. 3. Use a circulation machine to replace automatic transmission oil: A smart circulation machine can perform dynamic oil changes, filtering and cleaning sludge and impurities inside the automatic transmission.
You must change it! The transmission oil filter is the scavenger of the transmission. Over time, it gets filled with metal shavings and sludge. Last time I changed the oil without replacing the filter, and after 30,000 kilometers, the gear shifts started to become jerky. The mechanic opened it up and found the filter screen completely clogged with metal debris. Replacing it isn't expensive, but neglecting it can have serious consequences: clogged oil passages lead to insufficient lubrication, causing abnormal wear on the planetary gears and potential valve body sticking. Especially for older cars, it's recommended to replace the filter every 60,000 kilometers when changing the transmission oil. Make sure to have it done at a professional shop—replacing the filter requires removing the oil pan, and doing it yourself can easily lead to oil leaks.
