How Many Kilometers to Change Transmission Fluid?
2 Answers
Transmission fluid is generally replaced every 50,000 to 80,000 kilometers driven. The replacement interval for transmission fluid follows the same calculation method as the vehicle's maintenance cycle, based on either mileage or time in use. If the vehicle owner's manual specifies both criteria, the one that comes first should be followed. Hazards of not changing transmission fluid for a long time: 1. Failure to change transmission fluid for an extended period can lead to abnormal wear of the transmission and severe deterioration of the fluid quality; 2. Prolonged lack of transmission fluid changes can cause the fluid to age and degrade, not only increasing the vehicle's fuel consumption but also shortening the transmission's service life.
As an experienced driver with years of car ownership, I believe the transmission fluid replacement interval shouldn't be generalized. For manual transmissions, I usually change it around 80,000 km, while automatic transmissions require earlier replacement at about 60,000 km. This must also consider the vehicle manual - Japanese cars may last until 100,000 km, whereas German cars often need changing at 60,000 km. My neighbor's SUV frequently drives on mountain roads and started experiencing gear shift hesitation at just 50,000 km, with tests showing the fluid had oxidized and turned black. Don't forget to consider driving conditions - prolonged city traffic with frequent stops can raise fluid temperature, making it advisable to replace 10,000 km earlier. Oil selection is also crucial - only OEM-spec fluids can properly protect gear sets. I once used aftermarket oil and experienced slippage after just 30,000 km.
