How many kilometers does the Ford Focus transmission oil need to be replaced?
2 Answers
Generally, the automatic transmission oil of a car needs to be replaced every two years or every 40,000 kilometers. Here is some information about automatic transmission oil: 1. The replacement interval varies depending on the vehicle model. For Japanese models, it is recommended to replace the oil every 40,000 to 80,000 kilometers. Vehicles that frequently drive at high speeds should consider replacing the oil around every 40,000 kilometers. 2. Automatic transmission oil cannot be completely drained using atmospheric pressure; this method only removes about half of the used oil. 3. Over 99% of automatic transmission failures are caused by overheating and prolonged use of ATF oil without replacement, leading to contamination. It is also important to check whether the transmission oil pan is deformed or if there are any oil leaks in the transmission lines. 4. Excessive frequency of gear oil replacement can sometimes be counterproductive, so timely replacement is best.
I haven't been driving my Focus for long, but I've researched this issue. Generally, Ford recommends changing automatic transmission fluid every 60,000 kilometers, while manual transmissions may go longer to around 80,000 kilometers. However, this depends on your driving habits. For example, frequent traffic congestion or heavy loads can accelerate fluid degradation, possibly requiring an earlier change at 50,000 kilometers. When I last had my fluid changed, the mechanic mentioned that overly aged fluid can wear internal components, cause rough shifting, and may even lead to major transmission repairs. So it's best to have regular inspections rather than waiting until problems arise, as that would incur higher costs. Remember to check your owner's manual for specific recommendations when you have time, and don't forget to put reminder notes in your maintenance records to keep your car running smoothly and safely.