How to Change the Transmission Fluid of a Grand Cherokee?
2 Answers
Grand Cherokee transmission fluid replacement methods are as follows: 1. Gravity Drain. Similar to the principle of changing engine oil, loosen the oil pan bolt to allow the transmission fluid to flow out by gravity. Although simple, this method cannot completely clean out the fluid, as residual fluid tends to remain in uneven and hard-to-reach areas. 2. Machine Flush. Store new transmission fluid inside the flushing machine, connect the transmission and the machine via pipes, and use the new fluid to push out the old fluid under the machine's operation. A machine flush requires at least 12L of transmission fluid or more, is more expensive, and takes longer—typically around 1 hour. 3. Oil Pan Removal. This method cleans more thoroughly by removing the source directly. It also allows for cleaning the transmission fluid filter, but the disassembly process is more complicated.
I've changed the transmission fluid on my Grand Cherokee myself before, and it's a job that requires some hands-on skills. First, lift the car with a jack and ensure it's stable on level ground—safety comes first. Then, loosen the small drain plug at the bottom of the oil pan, and the old fluid will flow into a large container. If it looks dark and dirty, it's definitely time for a change. After draining, replace the old filter with a new one specific to the Grand Cherokee to ensure compatibility. Next, slowly pour in new fluid using a funnel—ATF+4 is the recommended type, so don’t cheap out on the wrong grade. Once done, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the fluid, then check the dipstick to ensure there are no leaks or overfilling. Doing it yourself can save you a few hundred bucks in labor, but don’t forget gloves and goggles—fluid tends to splash. Regular fluid changes keep shifts smooth and extend transmission life. For the Grand Cherokee, every five years or 60,000 miles is ideal. Basic DIY tools like a wrench and a container are all you need.
