How many kilometers should the transmission be serviced?
3 Answers
The transmission should be serviced every 40,000 kilometers. The functions of the transmission are: 1. To change the transmission ratio, meeting the traction needs under different driving conditions and allowing the engine to operate under favorable conditions; 2. To enable the vehicle to move in reverse; 3. To interrupt power transmission, allowing the engine to idle during startup, gear shifting, or parking, thus cutting off power to the drive wheels; 4. To engage neutral gear, stopping power output from the transmission when the clutch is engaged. Transmission maintenance methods: 1. Regularly check the fluid level; 2. Avoid skipping gears when upshifting; 3. Do not force the transmission into neutral; 4. Do not shorten the warm-up idling time; 5. Avoid gear grinding when shifting.
As an ordinary car owner with 15 years of driving experience, let me talk about transmission maintenance. My experience is that you should check the transmission fluid every 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers, especially if you drive an automatic transmission car, such as AT or CVT transmissions. It's best to change the fluid every 60,000 kilometers. For manual transmissions, you might be able to stretch it to every 80,000 kilometers, but this depends on your driving habits and environmental factors. For example, I drive in city traffic every day with constant stop-and-go, which causes more wear on the transmission, so I maintain it earlier. Friends who drive mostly on highways might extend the interval a bit. An important point is not to forget to check the vehicle's manual—different manufacturers have very different recommendations. Toyota might say 100,000 kilometers, while Volkswagen may suggest changing the fluid every 50,000 kilometers. If you notice rough shifting or unusual noises, don’t delay—get it checked by a professional shop right away. Spending a few hundred bucks on maintenance saves you hassle, money, and ensures driving safety.
I pay special attention to transmission maintenance because it affects the lifespan of the car. I get my transmission checked, including an oil change, every time I accumulate 50,000 to 70,000 kilometers of driving. Manual transmission cars are relatively durable, and changing the oil every 70,000 kilometers is generally fine. However, due to the complexity of automatic transmission systems, it's safer to change the oil every 50,000 kilometers. If you drive on bumpy roads or in dusty areas, it's best to shorten the maintenance intervals. Degraded oil can lead to increased wear—if the oil turns black or has a burnt smell, change it immediately. Don't wait until major problems arise, like transmission slipping or gear jumping, as the repair costs can be shockingly high. Develop a regular maintenance habit—my Ford has been running smoothly for over a decade, just like new.
