Does Transmission Fluid Need to Be Replaced?
2 Answers
Transmission fluid does need to be replaced. If it is not replaced after prolonged use, its viscosity will decrease, and its sealing performance will also be compromised. This can affect the lubrication effectiveness of the transmission fluid, thereby impacting the operation of the hydraulic system, leading to unstable pressure in the car's transmission, difficulty in shifting gears for manual transmissions, and a negative impact on the car's handling feel. Methods for maintaining the transmission include: 1. Regularly changing the transmission fluid; 2. Frequently checking the fluid level; 3. Avoiding coasting in neutral; 4. Skipping gears when upshifting; 5. Not forcing the transmission into neutral; 6. Minimizing the duration of idling to warm up the car; 7. Avoiding gear grinding when shifting; 8. Cleaning the transmission.
I was quite surprised when I first heard that the transmission fluid needs to be changed in the used car I bought last year. A friend suggested I get it checked at a maintenance shop, and it turned out the fluid had turned completely black. Not changing the fluid in an older car can affect lubrication and gear protection, making it prone to overheating and wear. The mechanic told me that automatic transmission cars generally require a fluid change every 40,000 to 60,000 kilometers, while manual transmissions might go longer, up to 80,000 kilometers. After the change, the car drove noticeably smoother, with no more gear shift sticking and quicker throttle response. I think of it like adding lubricant to a machine—regular maintenance can extend the transmission's lifespan and prevent sudden, costly repairs.
