Is a Transmission Fluid Flush Necessary?

[Evangeline]

Transmission fluid flush requirements depend on the situation. 1. Manual transmissions have lower demands on transmission fluid due to their simpler structure. Manual replacement is generally sufficient and more economical. 2. For automatic transmissions, a flush is recommended. Automatic transmissions have more complex structures and higher fluid requirements. Poor-quality fluid can easily cause issues. A transmission fluid flush ensures complete replacement, offering more thorough results and extending the maintenance interval. The specific steps for a transmission fluid flush using a machine are as follows: 1. Locate the transmission fluid fill and drain ports, then connect the machine's inlet and outlet hoses. 2. Fill the machine with automatic transmission fluid. 3. Start the machine and initiate the automatic replacement process, which requires starting the vehicle during the procedure. 4. When the old fluid in the viewing window appears clear, it indicates the old fluid has been fully removed, and the replacement is complete. 5. Typically, a machine-assisted flush uses over twice the amount of new fluid compared to manual replacement, requiring 9-12 liters of new fluid. Although the cost is higher, the results are significantly better, making it ideal for automatic transmissions.

[DiLucy]

With over a decade of auto repair experience, whether to use a transmission fluid exchange machine depends on your vehicle model. For modern automatic transmissions, a full flush with the machine is more reliable—it clears out old fluid from the torque converter, removing up to 90% of used oil, especially crucial for transmissions with electronic valve bodies. However, older cars should avoid it; loosened carbon deposits can clog passages—I've seen a 2006 Accord develop shift shudder post-flush. While machine flushing costs double in labor, gravity draining replaces just 60% but saves money. My general advice: perform a full flush every 60,000 km, supplemented by a gravity change midway for cost efficiency. Ignore 'lifetime fluid' claims—oil oxidizes and loses lubricity over time.

[DiAlessandra]

As a family car owner, there's no need to change the transmission fluid with a flush every time. From my experience, a simple drain-and-fill (gravity method) is sufficient for regular commuter cars - it costs about 300 RMB at dealerships, while a machine flush costs over 600. However, if you frequently carry heavy loads uphill or drive at high speeds, or own a CVT transmission, then a flush every 80,000 km is essential. Last time after towing a caravan with my Highlander, the gear shifts became rough - after the flush, it became smooth like new. Remember not to exceed 60,000 km between changes, as sludge buildup can damage the transmission. When doing gravity changes, always replace the filter for extra protection.

[DelHaley]

A veteran driver with 20 years of car experience tells you: Performance cars must have a flush oil change! My modified 3.5L Mark X engine puts heavy pressure on the transmission, and even after a gravity oil change, there was still gear shift lag. After switching to full synthetic oil with a flush machine, the redline shifts became crisp and precise. However, owners of older BMW Z4s should note that ZF transmission oil changes must be paired with a computer reset, or incorrect pressure parameters can cause slippage. Daily commuter cars don’t need such attention, but cars with paddle shifters are recommended for flush changes—after all, the precision valve body is more vulnerable to impurities.