How many kilometers should an AT transmission fluid be changed?
2 Answers
AT transmission fluid should be changed every 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers. More knowledge about AT transmissions is as follows: 1. An automatic transmission is a device that can automatically shift gears based on the vehicle's speed and engine RPM, as opposed to a manual transmission. It mainly includes four types: hydraulic automatic transmission, continuously variable transmission (CVT), electronically controlled mechanical automatic transmission, and dual-clutch transmission. 2. A hydraulic automatic transmission achieves automatic shifting through a combination of hydraulic drive and planetary gears. It generally consists of components such as a torque converter, planetary gear set, shift actuators, shift control system, and shift operation mechanism.
I've worked in a repair shop for many years and seen many car owners neglect transmission fluid changes, leading to major overhauls. The mileage for automatic transmission fluid changes generally ranges between 60,000 to 100,000 kilometers, depending on the vehicle model and usage habits. For example, frequent stop-and-go driving in city traffic accelerates fluid degradation, so an earlier change at around 60,000 km is advisable. If you mostly drive on highways, around 80,000 km should be fine. Always check the fluid color: if it turns black or has a burnt smell, it indicates contaminant buildup and requires immediate replacement. Delaying fluid changes causes excessive wear on friction components, rough shifting, and even transmission failure—repairs then cost far more than just fluid. During every service, I remind customers to consult their manuals, as recommendations vary by brand (e.g., Toyota vs. Mazda). Some vehicles advertise 'lifetime fluid,' but in practice, periodic checks are still best. Safety first—don’t invite big trouble by skimping on small expenses.