Does Transmission Fluid Need to Be Replaced?
3 Answers
Transmission fluid needs to be replaced, and the replacement cycle varies depending on the type of transmission in different vehicle models. For manual transmissions in passenger cars, it is generally recommended to replace the fluid every three years or approximately 100,000 kilometers. For automatic transmissions, the recommendation is usually every two years or around 40,000 kilometers, while continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) typically require fluid replacement every two years or about 60,000 kilometers. Signs that indicate the need for transmission fluid replacement include vehicle shaking, gear shifting hesitation, a transmission overheating warning on the dashboard, engine stalling, and unusual noises. The methods for replacing transmission fluid are as follows: 1. Loosen the drain plug at the bottom of the transmission to drain the old fluid before refilling. 2. Remove the transmission oil pan directly to drain and refill the fluid: This method is more thorough than the first one, as it also removes impurities from the bottom of the oil pan. 3. Use a circulation machine to replace automatic transmission fluid: A smart circulation machine can perform dynamic fluid replacement, filtering and cleaning sludge and impurities inside the automatic transmission. Hazards of not replacing transmission fluid for an extended period: 1. Damage to the transmission's gear shift control mechanism. 2. Abnormal wear of gears and clutch plates inside the transmission. 3. Impaired transmission operation, leading to damage to the transmission valve body.
The transmission fluid indeed needs to be replaced regularly. Over time, contaminants accumulate in the fluid, making it thinner or containing metal shavings, which reduces lubrication effectiveness and causes severe wear on transmission gears. Failure to replace it may lead to rough shifting, unusual noises, or even complete failure, and the repair costs can be quite expensive, ranging from thousands to tens of thousands. Modern vehicles generally recommend changing it every 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers or every 4 years, depending on your owner's manual and model. Automatic transmissions may require more frequent fluid changes. Fresh fluid improves shifting smoothness, extends transmission lifespan, and slightly enhances fuel efficiency. Don’t skimp on this cost—regular maintenance can prevent major issues. I often remind friends not to overlook this detail.
I remember the last time I changed the transmission oil was during the 50,000-kilometer major service, and the driving experience became noticeably smoother. If not changed for a long time, the oil will oxidize and deteriorate, turning darker in color or even developing a burnt smell, reducing its lubrication capability and potentially causing high-temperature damage to internal components. This is especially true for older models or vehicles frequently driven in congested urban areas, where problems are more likely to occur. The cost of changing it once isn't high, usually around 300-400 yuan, but it can prevent much more expensive repairs. My neighbor's SUV ended up needing a major transmission overhaul due to slipping caused by neglected oil changes, costing over 8,000 yuan. Paying attention to regular maintenance yourself saves both hassle and money.
