How often should the automatic transmission fluid be changed in a Volkswagen?
2 Answers
It is recommended to change the automatic transmission fluid in Volkswagen vehicles every 50,000 kilometers. The hazards of not changing the transmission fluid for a long time are as follows: 1. Failure to change the transmission fluid for an extended period can lead to abnormal wear and severe deterioration of the fluid in the transmission. 2. Prolonged neglect of transmission fluid changes can cause the fluid to age and degrade, not only increasing fuel consumption but also shortening the service life of the transmission. 3. Not changing the transmission fluid for a long time can cause the fluid in the transmission to form particles, blocking the oil passages and damaging the valve body, which directly affects the system's oil pressure and power transmission, resulting in sluggish response and gear shift shocks in the transmission.
I think the frequency of automatic transmission fluid changes depends on the vehicle model and driving habits. My Volkswagen Passat has been running for almost 7 years, and the manual recommends changing it every 60,000 kilometers or 5 years, which is the standard I follow. When the fluid deteriorates, its lubrication effect weakens, causing increased wear on the transmission, and repairs can cost thousands. Some newer cars now use long-life fluid, which might only need replacement every 80,000 kilometers. During every maintenance check, I ask the mechanic to inspect the fluid's color and smell—if it turns black or has a burnt odor, it should be changed early. In areas with heavy traffic, higher fluid temperatures accelerate degradation, so regular changes extend the car's lifespan and save money.
