Is Using a Flushing Machine to Replace Transmission Fluid Really Good?
2 Answers
It is not recommended to use a flushing machine to replace transmission fluid, especially for high-mileage automatic transmissions, as it carries certain risks. While using a flushing machine can remove impurities stuck in the torque converter, hydraulic valve body module oil passages, or deposited in the oil pan and transmission filter, these impurities may flow through the pipes and clog components such as the torque converter, hydraulic valve body, and transmission filter screen. This can lead to issues like poor oil flow and solenoid valve sticking. Below is additional information: Methods for replacing transmission fluid: one is the gravity drain method, and the other is the flushing method. Notes: For a car that has been used for a long time with high mileage and has not had its transmission fluid replaced for an extended period, the transmission will accumulate certain sediment impurities during operation. These impurities, carried by the transmission fluid, can stick to the torque converter, hydraulic valve body module oil passages, or deposit in the oil pan and transmission filter. The longer the time, the more these impurities accumulate.
Using a circulation machine to change transmission fluid, I think this method is really not bad. The conventional gravity drain method only removes the old fluid and adds new fluid, but due to the complex structure of the transmission, a significant amount of old fluid remains inside, along with incomplete removal of metal shavings or contaminants. The circulation machine flushes the system by cycling new fluid through it, replacing over 95% of the old fluid, making the process more thorough and clean. This is especially suitable for automatic transmission models, protecting internal components and reducing wear to extend lifespan. The downside is the higher cost, typically ranging from 200 to 500 yuan, which is considerably more expensive than a standard fluid change, and it also takes longer, usually over half an hour. From my perspective, if you drive a high-end car or frequently take long trips, the extra cost is worth it; but for economy cars used for city commuting, regular gravity drain changes are sufficient. The key is to stick to scheduled maintenance and not wait until the fluid deteriorates, causing major issues—transmission repairs can cost several thousand yuan.