How Often Should the Oil in a Dry Dual-Clutch Transmission Be Changed?
2 Answers
Dry transmission oil is generally recommended to be changed approximately every 60,000 kilometers. Compared to automatic transmissions, the oil change interval for manual transmissions with dual-clutch plates and shifting mechanisms tends to be slightly longer. Regular Transmission Oil Changes: Dry and wet dual-clutch transmissions refer to the clutch part of the transmission. In dry dual-clutch transmissions, air serves as the medium for the clutch, while oil is the medium for wet dual-clutch transmissions. The rear structure remains consistent, requiring oil to lubricate the various gear sets and valve bodies. Therefore, regular oil changes are necessary for dual-clutch transmissions. Advantages of Dual-Clutch Transmissions: Dual-clutch transmissions can significantly save fuel due to the interruption of torque, which allows continuous utilization of the engine's power and ensures optimal performance.
I've had experience with quite a few dual-clutch transmission vehicles, and generally speaking, the dry-type ones are much more worry-free compared to the wet-type ones. Manufacturers like Volkswagen or Ford typically recommend inspections around every 100,000 kilometers, with no fixed oil change interval. Since dry clutches don't operate immersed in oil, the gear oil mainly lubricates the transmission components and doesn't degrade as easily. From my experience, it depends on driving habits—if you frequently drive in congested urban areas, the wear is greater, and you might need an earlier inspection, say around 7-8 years or 80,000 kilometers. Neglecting maintenance could lead to deteriorated oil quality, causing gearshift jerks or even transmission overheating and failure. It's best to refer to the user manual—some vehicles are even maintenance-free, but regular checks can prevent major repairs. In short, don't wait for problems to arise; find a reliable service center for periodic maintenance to keep your car in good shape.