How many kilometers does transmission oil need to be changed?
2 Answers
Transmission oil generally needs to be changed every two years or every 40,000 to 60,000 kilometers, but it depends on the vehicle model. Different models have different requirements. For Japanese models, it is recommended to change the transmission oil every 40,000 to 60,000 kilometers. For vehicles that frequently drive on highways, it is recommended to change the transmission oil approximately every 40,000 kilometers. The reason for changing transmission oil is that over time, the oil becomes oxidized due to high temperatures, and sludge and impurities accumulate, which can accelerate damage to the transmission. All oils have a shelf life. If the oil is not changed for too long, more sludge and impurities will accumulate in the transmission, leading to damage to transmission components.
The replacement interval for transmission oil varies from person to person. After driving for over a decade, I've found that the key lies in consulting the vehicle manual and considering driving habits. Most manual transmissions recommend an oil change every 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers, while automatic transmission oil, which involves a hydraulic pressure system and is more prone to contamination, should ideally be inspected and replaced every 40,000 to 60,000 kilometers. If you frequently drive in congested urban areas with constant stop-and-go traffic, the increased oil temperature accelerates aging, necessitating an earlier change at around 40,000 kilometers. Conversely, if you do more highway driving, you can extend the interval slightly to 70,000 kilometers. Always use high-quality, specialized oil to avoid damaging transmission components with inferior products. Delaying replacement can cause the oil to thicken, leading to rough shifting or even slippage, with repair costs starting at several thousand yuan. Having a technician check the oil's color and condition during regular maintenance is a good habit to prevent potential failures.
