How Many Liters of Oil Should Be Added to the Transmission?
3 Answers
The amount of oil required for a transmission depends on the vehicle model and the replacement method. Manual oil replacement requires 4 to 6 liters of oil, while using an oil changer requires approximately 9 to 12 liters. Transmission oil is categorized into automatic transmission oil and manual transmission oil. Automatic transmission oil should be replaced every two years or after driving about 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers; manual transmission oil should be replaced every three years or after driving about 80,000 to 100,000 kilometers. When replacing transmission oil, the old oil must be drained. This can be done by unscrewing the drain plug at the bottom of the transmission oil pan, allowing the old oil to drain out by gravity. Due to the internal structure of the transmission, this method only removes about 70% of the old oil, resulting in a lower oil replacement rate.
The amount of oil to add to the transmission varies by vehicle. My old manual compact car usually takes just over 3 liters, while some SUVs with automatic transmissions may require seven or eight liters. From my own experience tinkering with cars, I've found that factors like oil tank size and hydraulic system design affect the required amount—always check the owner's manual or search online for specific model data first. Remember to wear gloves as spilled oil is messy to clean; pour slowly using a funnel to avoid mistakes that could damage gears. Changing the oil every few thousand kilometers extends transmission life—measure the capacity and prepare sufficient materials before DIY oil changes.
As a new car owner, I was also confused at first. The transmission fluid volume usually ranges between 3 to 10 liters. From my experience, manual transmissions generally require less, while automatic transmissions - especially in larger vehicles - may need more. The first thing to do after buying a new car is to check the recommended volume and brand in the maintenance manual - don't make random guesses. Overfilling can cause leaks and overheating, while underfilling damages the machinery. I recommend using a measuring cup when adding fluid. Regular fluid level checks can prevent major repair costs, as transmission repairs can be quite expensive.
