Must Transmission Fluid Be Replaced According to the Model?

[MacAlyssa]

When it comes to car maintenance, whether it's major or minor servicing, attention is often paid to the renewal and replacement of engine oil and the three filters. However, many car owners tend to overlook transmission maintenance. In fact, transmission fluid also needs to be replaced regularly, except for certain brands that specifically claim to be maintenance-free for life. Long-term neglect of replacement may lead to issues such as gear shifting impact, occasional failure to move, and in severe cases, the generation of debris that can block oil passages and damage the valve body. Compared to engine oil changes, replacing transmission fluid is more complex because the transmission contains numerous fine oil pipes for various hydraulic valves, and the transmission has high requirements for oil quality. It's not necessarily better to choose higher-end products; usually, original or equivalent-grade fluids are sufficient. Overall, similar to how engine oil protects the engine, transmission fluid serves to protect, lubricate, cool, and remove impurities from your car's transmission. Unlike engine oil, which is typically replaced every 5,000 or 10,000 kilometers, transmission fluid must be replaced according to the specific transmission model! Currently, there are three mainstream methods for replacing automatic transmission fluid. The first method is similar to changing engine oil, where the transmission's drain plug is loosened to drain and refill the fluid. The second method involves directly removing the oil pan for draining and refilling. The third method, which is more advanced, uses a circulation machine to replace the automatic transmission fluid. The first two methods are widely used today because they are cost-effective (requiring less fluid) and do not require repair shops to purchase additional equipment. However, they have drawbacks: traditional gravity drainage cannot "completely" replace the transmission fluid, leaving old fluid residues in the valve body, cooling lines, and various components, which can contaminate the new fluid when added directly.

[Edgar]

Every time I change the transmission fluid, I believe it's crucial to select the right type based on specifications. I own an older car, and last time I didn't pay attention to the type, just grabbed a universal fluid. After driving for a while, the transmission started slipping and shifting became rough. I ended up towing it for repairs, costing me thousands to fix the transmission. The mechanic explained that different transmissions—automatic, manual, or CVT—have unique internal designs. Some require thinner fluids to lubricate delicate components, and using oil that's too thick or thin can accelerate wear or even damage gear sets. Since then, I always check the vehicle manual or look up specs online to ensure I buy the correct fluid. While universal fluids might be cheaper upfront, using the right one saves on long-term repair costs and keeps the car running smoothly. Making it a habit to verify fluid compatibility helps avoid unexpected headaches.

[HaleyAnn]

You must change the oil according to the specified model, that's the basic rule. For automatic transmission fluid, it's not just about lubrication—it also interacts with the control computer and valve body. Using the wrong fluid can lead to delayed shifting, shuddering, or overheating. Manual transmissions are slightly more flexible, but you still need to choose the right viscosity; otherwise, gear engagement may become rough, and noise levels can increase. I've seen a friend try to save money by using the wrong oil, only to end up with a prematurely ruined transmission and costly repairs. Before changing the oil, I recommend checking the user manual—it lists the recommended oil specifications—or consulting a professional shop, as they can help confirm the right brand and grade. Don't underestimate this step; ensuring oil compatibility is crucial for extending transmission life, making your driving experience smoother and safer.

[RichardAnn]

It's essential to use the correct oil specification for your transmission. Each transmission design differs, and the oil serves critical functions like lubrication, cooling, and corrosion prevention. Using incompatible oil will cause issues. For example, my CVT transmission started making strange noises after I once used the wrong oil, and the subsequent repairs were quite troublesome. The manual specifies the exact oil type, which must be strictly followed. Otherwise, it may lead to oil pump wear or seal failure, doubling your repair costs. Always develop the habit of verifying the oil specification before purchasing.