How Many Liters of Oil Should Be Changed in a Transmission at One Time?
2 Answers
Most car transmissions require 6-10 liters of oil for a single change. The exact amount of transmission fluid needed depends on the vehicle model and the replacement method. Typically, when changing transmission oil, the screw at the bottom of the transmission oil pan is removed to drain the old oil before adding new oil. This method only replaces about 70% of the old oil. For a more thorough replacement, a circulating machine can be used to replace over 90% of the oil. Additional Information: 1. Generally, automatic transmission fluid should be changed every two years or every 40,000 kilometers, while manual transmission fluid should be changed every 60,000 kilometers. If shifting becomes noticeably stiff, less smooth than before, or if transmission noise significantly increases after driving more than 100 kilometers, the transmission fluid should be replaced immediately, regardless of whether the mileage is 20,000 or 40,000 kilometers. Failure to do so may intensify friction between transmission gears, leading to premature major repairs. 2. When changing transmission oil, it's important to select the appropriate viscosity. If the viscosity is too high, it can cause overheating of friction surfaces and unnecessary power loss. Conversely, if the viscosity is too low, centrifugal force may cause the oil to be thrown off the gear surfaces, leading to oil seal leaks. This can result in insufficient lubrication on the gear surfaces, increasing wear and potentially causing sintering.
I've driven quite a few cars, and the transmission fluid change usually requires between 4 to 8 liters, depending on the vehicle size and type. For example, my old sedan only needed 4 liters for a fluid change, but my neighbor's SUV required 7 liters because larger vehicles have bigger transmission capacities. Each time you change the fluid, you need to completely drain the old oil before adding new fluid—this helps remove debris and protect the gears. I recommend changing it roughly every 50,000 kilometers; delaying it can lead to rough shifting or even internal damage. Checking the vehicle manual will give you the exact amount, or you can consult a reliable repair shop for peace of mind. Choosing high-quality ATF fluid during the change is crucial—it extends the lifespan and saves costs.
