Is it necessary to replace the filter when changing transmission fluid?

[ColemanFitz]

Replacing the transmission fluid filter is essential when changing transmission fluid. The steps for changing transmission fluid are: 1. Remove the drain plug at the bottom of the transmission to drain the old fluid; 2. Remove the inner and outer shells of the transmission; 3. Take off the transmission fluid filter; 4. Remove the oil pan gasket and clean the surrounding stains; 5. Wipe the cleaned transmission fluid filter with cotton yarn; 6. Add new fluid and complete the installation. The transmission consists of a gear transmission mechanism and a gear shifting mechanism. The functions of transmission fluid are: 1. Keeping the gear system clean; 2. Lubricating and prolonging the life of the transmission device; 3. Cooling and sealing.

[DiMalia]

When I worked at the repair shop, owners often asked about this. The transmission filter screen acts like the 'kidneys' of the transmission, specifically filtering out metal debris and impurities. If you don't replace the filter, the new fluid you add will quickly get contaminated by the dirt trapped in the old filter. Especially for vehicles with over 60,000 kilometers, the oil pan is full of sludge – changing just the fluid without replacing the filter is practically wasted effort. Many new cars now use long-life transmission fluid, but the filter can still get clogged. I recommend replacing the filter every time you change the fluid; spending an extra 200-300 yuan can keep your transmission safe. For CVT transmissions, you need to be even more careful – a clogged filter can cause insufficient oil pressure and lead to a complete breakdown.

[Bella]

I've changed the transmission fluid in my own car three times. The first two times, I tried to save money by not replacing the filter, and within three months, I could feel the gear shifts becoming rough. Later, the mechanic showed me the oil pan after removing it—the filter was as black as a lump of coal. It turns out that over time, the filter accumulates sludge, blocking half of the filtration holes, which severely hampers the circulation of new fluid. Now I've learned my lesson and replace both the fluid and the filter every time. For cars with built-in filters that require transmission disassembly, the labor cost is higher, but it's still much cheaper than repairing the transmission. Remember, the automatic transmission filter is especially crucial as it directly affects the hydraulic system's working pressure.

[StAlaina]

It depends on the car model. The transmission filter in my old Accord is located inside the oil pan, so it's replaced conveniently during oil changes—easy to remove and inexpensive. However, some German cars have built-in filters that require transmission disassembly, doubling the labor cost. The primary purpose of the filter is to prevent metal debris from gear wear from entering the valve body, as replacing a valve body can cost thousands. Modern transmissions are more precise and demand higher oil cleanliness. I recommend replacing the filter every 60,000-80,000 km during oil changes, especially for city-driven vehicles that endure frequent stop-and-go conditions, which are toughest on transmissions.