How Many Kilometers to Change Transmission Oil for a Car?
2 Answers
Car transmission oil should be changed every two years or 40,000 kilometers. Here is the relevant information: 1. The frequency of changing transmission oil varies for different car models. For manual transmission cars, the transmission oil is only used for lubrication, and the gear precision requirements for manual transmissions are not high, so slightly inferior transmission oil has little impact. 2. Automatic transmission cars have more complex transmissions with higher operational requirements. Here, the transmission oil serves more purposes than in manual transmission cars. Therefore, if the transmission oil becomes dirty and impurities increase, it will accelerate transmission wear and reduce shifting speed.
I'm a driving enthusiast, and there's no one-size-fits-all mileage for changing transmission fluid. It mainly depends on the car model, transmission type, and your driving habits. Generally, automatic transmissions are recommended to have their fluid changed every 40,000 to 50,000 kilometers because their complex internal structure makes the fluid prone to deterioration; manual transmissions can go up to 60,000 kilometers. If you frequently drive in city traffic or haul heavy loads, changing it as early as 30,000 kilometers is better. Not changing the fluid on time poses significant risks: degraded fluid can lead to gear wear, rough shifting, or even major repairs, which can cost tens of thousands. I recommend regularly checking the fluid color—if it turns black or has a burnt smell, it's time for a change. Also, don’t forget to check the owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s specific recommendations. Good habits can extend your transmission’s lifespan by several years.
