How Often Should the Transmission Fluid in a Grand Cherokee Be Changed?
2 Answers
The transmission fluid in a Grand Cherokee is generally recommended to be changed every 2 years or approximately 60,000 kilometers. Different vehicle models have varying change intervals. Below are the recommended change intervals for transmission fluid: Manual Transmission: Manual transmission fluid is typically recommended to be changed every 3 years or approximately 100,000 kilometers. Automatic Transmission: Automatic transmission fluid is generally recommended to be changed every 2 years or approximately 40,000 kilometers. Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT): CVT fluid is usually recommended to be changed every 2 years or approximately 60,000 kilometers. The methods for changing transmission fluid are as follows: 1. Loosen the drain plug at the bottom of the transmission to drain the old fluid before refilling. 2. Remove the transmission oil pan directly to drain the old fluid and refill: This method is more thorough than the previous one, as it removes impurities accumulated at the bottom of the oil pan. 3. Use a circulation machine to change automatic transmission fluid: A smart circulation machine enables dynamic fluid exchange, filtering and cleaning sludge and impurities inside the automatic transmission.
I drove a Grand Cherokee for many years, and the transmission fluid change interval really depends on the situation. The manual typically recommends changing it every 40,000 to 60,000 miles or every 4 years, but this isn't set in stone. If you frequently go off-road or tow heavy loads like I did, you should consider changing it earlier, around 30,000 miles. As the fluid ages, it thickens and turns black, which can damage internal transmission components. If it fails, repairs can cost thousands of dollars. A friend of mine waited until 70,000 miles to change it, and ended up with delayed shifting and clunking noises, requiring a major overhaul. I recommend checking the dipstick regularly—if the fluid looks dark or has a burnt smell, act immediately. Safety first—don’t skimp on this expense and compromise your vehicle’s reliability.
