Does Transmission Fluid Need to Be Changed at a 4S Shop?
3 Answers
Transmission fluid does not necessarily need to be changed at a 4S shop. The steps for changing transmission fluid are: 1. Remove the drain plug at the bottom of the transmission to drain the old fluid; 2. Remove the inner and outer shells of the transmission; 3. Remove the transmission fluid filter; 4. Take off the oil pan gasket and clean surrounding stains; 5. Wipe the cleaned transmission fluid filter with cotton thread; 6. Add new fluid and complete the installation. The reasons for changing transmission fluid are: 1. The transmission requires gear oil for lubrication, cooling, cleaning, and corrosion prevention; 2. To reduce gear wear; 3. To maintain cleanliness of the shifting system; 4. To prolong the lifespan of the transmission components; 5. To prevent the transmission fluid viscosity from thinning and the lubrication performance from declining.
When I changed my transmission fluid, I felt it was completely unnecessary to do it at a 4S dealership unless the car was still under warranty. The charges at 4S shops are outrageously high, often costing over a thousand yuan, but I found that local professional repair shops can do the job just as well for less than half the price. The key is to find a reputable shop and use the right fluid—transmission fluids are divided into ATF and CVT types, and they must match the vehicle's specifications in the manual. Otherwise, using the wrong fluid could cause slipping or even damage the transmission. I went to a small shop recommended by my neighbor, where they used genuine branded fluid, and the hundreds I saved could even fill up my tank for a long trip. As long as you confirm the shop is reliable and avoid sketchy roadside stalls just to save a few bucks, the risk is minimal, and you can genuinely save money on car maintenance. Saving on maintenance costs allows you to set aside funds for new parts, which is a much more practical and cost-effective approach.
As a seasoned driver, I consider transmission fluid replacement a serious matter. While 4S shops are undoubtedly professional with their genuine fluids and trained technicians, they're not the only option. The transmission is too precise - even slight errors in fluid selection can cause issues like jerking or leaks, so I only trust reputable service points. Local transmission specialists often have knowledgeable technicians charging half the price, but what matters most is whether they use proper tools to completely drain old fluid and replace filters. I once learned the hard way when a small shop used substandard fluid, causing transmission issues that cost me dearly to fix. My advice: compare price lists and reviews from multiple shops, and choose certified professionals for a worry-free job. Never skip this step for convenience - your peace of mind comes with a smoothly running car.
