How to Change the Transmission Fluid for an Accord?
2 Answers
The method for changing the transmission fluid of an Accord is as follows: 1. Unscrew the transmission fluid drain plug at the bottom of the engine to drain the transmission fluid from the engine, using a pan to catch the drained fluid below; 2. Open the driver's side door of the car; 3. Pull the hood release lever located on the left side of the car; 4. Lift up the car's engine hood; 5. Use the support rod to secure the car's hood to prevent any hazards; 6. Unscrew the plastic cover of the car's transmission and add transmission fluid; 7. Ensure the fluid level is between the upper and lower marks on the dipstick. Taking the 2021 Accord as an example, it is a mid-size sedan with body dimensions of: length 4893mm, width 1862mm, height 1449mm, and a wheelbase of 2830mm.
I once changed the transmission fluid of my Honda Accord by myself and found it quite interesting but safety is crucial. I would first lift the car or use ramps to ensure stability, otherwise it's easy to get injured. Then, wearing gloves, I locate the drain plug on the oil pan, loosen it, and let the old fluid drain into a container—usually takes about ten minutes until it's completely drained. After that, I tighten the drain plug back, measure the required amount of new fluid with a measuring cup, strictly following the manual's specifications—never overfill or underfill. Next, I open the fill port under the hood and slowly pour in the new fluid using a funnel, being careful not to spill any, as it can corrode parts. Once filled, I start the engine, shift through the gears for a few minutes to circulate the fluid, and check for leaks. The whole process takes about an hour, requiring just basic tools like a wrench, drain pan, and dipstick. The key is using the correct OEM transmission fluid, such as ATF DW-1, as the wrong type can affect shifting. Periodically, I also check the fluid level and color to maintain smooth gear changes, saving money on mechanic visits. However, I recommend beginners watch tutorial videos first if they lack experience.
