How often should the transmission fluid in a manual transmission be changed?
2 Answers
Manual transmission fluid should be changed approximately every 3 years or 80,000 kilometers. The interior of a manual transmission consists entirely of gears and bearing structures, all of which require oil lubrication. Over time, the meshing and wear of these components generate a significant amount of iron powder. Excessive powder can cause the transmission fluid to thicken and become cloudy, thereby reducing its lubricating capability. Hence, it is necessary to change the fluid once the recommended mileage is reached. The functions of transmission fluid are: 1. To keep the gearshift system clean; 2. To lubricate the transmission components. Signs that indicate the need for a transmission fluid change include: 1. Vehicle shaking and jerky gear shifts; 2. The dashboard displaying a transmission overheating warning; 3. The engine stalling; 4. Unusual noises.
When I first started driving a manual transmission car, I didn’t know much about it either. Later, I asked a mechanic and learned that the timing for changing transmission oil depends on the specific condition of the car and driving habits. For example, for the city family car I drive, it’s recommended to change the oil every 30,000 to 40,000 kilometers or every 3 years. The main reason is that over time, the oil oxidizes and deteriorates, its viscosity decreases, and its lubrication effect diminishes, which can lead to strange noises or even jerks when shifting gears. Once, I delayed changing it for too long, and the low-speed gear shifts became particularly rough. Upon inspection, the oil had turned black and sticky. So now, I always check the maintenance manual regularly and shorten the interval if I drive long distances frequently in summer to avoid severe internal wear in the transmission. You can also check the oil dipstick yourself: if the oil is clear and bright, it’s good; if it’s darkened or cloudy, it’s time for a change. Don’t try to save a little money now, or you might end up spending a lot more on transmission repairs later.
