How Many Kilometers Should Gear Oil Be Replaced?
3 Answers
For new cars, it is generally recommended to replace the gear oil every 40,000 kilometers. Transmission oil is a lubricant that keeps the gear system clean, ensuring the normal operation of the transmission and extending the lifespan of the transmission components. Failure to replace the transmission oil regularly can lead to: impurities forming due to chemical changes in the transmission oil, causing blockages in the oil passages and affecting gear-shifting functionality. Prolonged high-temperature operation reduces the lubricating properties of the transmission oil, increasing the risk of clutch plate wear and causing stalling. Below is relevant information about gear oil: 1. Gear oil is used in the transmission and provides power to the gears through oil pressure while also lubricating and cleaning the transmission. Its quality directly affects the transmission's performance. Transmissions are divided into manual and automatic transmissions, and the corresponding transmission oils can be categorized as automatic transmission fluid (ATF) and manual transmission fluid (MTF). ATF is specifically designed for automatic transmissions, while MTF is for manual transmissions—they must never be mixed. 2. Whether it's a manual or automatic transmission, all transmission oils have a certain shelf life. Once the vehicle reaches a certain mileage or the maintenance cycle is due, the oil must be replaced immediately. Over time, transmission oil becomes dirty, and its viscosity decreases, making it unable to protect the transmission effectively. This can lead to symptoms such as rough gear shifts, abnormal acceleration, loud noises, and, in severe cases, premature transmission failure, significantly shortening the transmission's lifespan.
When I first started driving, I always thought changing the gear oil too early was a waste of money. It wasn't until I drove more that I understood its importance. Manual transmission oil usually needs to be changed every 80,000 to 100,000 kilometers, but automatic transmissions require more frequent changes, around every 60,000 kilometers. Don't just rely on the mileage—if you often drive in traffic jams or on mountainous roads, the oil degrades faster, so check it at around 40,000 kilometers. I once drove an SUV and didn't change the transmission oil on time, which made shifting difficult and caused strange noises. The repair cost was ridiculously expensive. Remember to check the owner's manual—most manufacturers recommend changing it between 50,000 to 80,000 kilometers. Depending on your driving conditions, pay attention to the oil's color and smell. If it deteriorates, change it immediately to avoid major repairs.
I usually drive to and from work, and the gear oil change is something you can't take lightly. Based on my experience, it should generally be changed every 40,000 to 60,000 kilometers, especially in cities with frequent stops and starts where the oil tends to accumulate dirt. Automatic transmission oil should be changed more frequently, around 50,000 kilometers; manual transmissions are less critical, and 80,000 kilometers is acceptable. The key is to check it often—have the technician take a look during each maintenance service. If it's black or burnt, deal with it immediately. My car went over the mileage without a change, and the transmission slipped several times, which scared me into rushing to a professional shop. Don't skimp on the small cost—changing the oil on time maintains vehicle performance, ensuring a smooth and safe drive.
