Should the Filter Be Replaced When Changing Transmission Fluid?
3 Answers
When changing the transmission fluid, it is essential to replace the filter as well. This is because the filter continuously cleans the transmission fluid as the vehicle operates. Over time, metal shavings and sludge accumulate in the filter. If the filter is not replaced along with the transmission fluid, the cleaning effect will be compromised. Additionally, accumulated contaminants may break free from the filter, potentially clogging oil passages and affecting transmission performance. Here is more information about transmission fluid: 1. Transmission fluid serves multiple purposes, including cooling, lubrication, and power transmission. Many transmission shift control mechanisms rely on the fluid to function. Prolonged neglect of fluid changes can lead to failures in these control systems. 2. In torque converter transmissions, the torque converter—which connects to the engine—is filled with transmission fluid. In such transmissions, the fluid also plays a role in power transfer. 3. There are two methods for changing transmission fluid: the gravity drain method and the flush method using a specialized machine. The flush method is recommended despite its higher cost, as it removes more old fluid and ensures a cleaner, more thorough replacement. 4. When purchasing transmission fluid, opt for the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) fluid. OEM fluids undergo rigorous testing by manufacturers to meet the transmission's requirements under various operating conditions.
With twenty years of transmission repair experience, I've found that the filter should never be skipped during an oil change. The filter acts as a garbage collector, trapping metal shavings and debris shed during transmission operation. If not replaced, the new oil gets contaminated quickly. For automatic transmissions, a clogged filter can cause unstable oil pressure, leading to rough shifting, and in severe cases, complete transmission failure. I've seen too many cases—one Volkswagen owner saved on the filter, only to need a major repair within 10,000 km, costing over ten thousand yuan. Owner's manuals usually recommend replacing the filter with each oil change, typically adding a few hundred yuan to the cost but ensuring 50,000 km of safe operation. Always check that the oil type matches the filter—some manual transmission filters are simpler, but automatics require frequent replacement. Proper maintenance ensures smooth driving and better fuel efficiency.
I've been driving my own car for fifteen years, and every time I go for maintenance to change the transmission oil, I always insist on replacing the filter. A few years ago, I tried skipping it once to save a few dozen bucks, but within six months, I noticed sluggish gear shifts and a lack of power when accelerating. I regretted it so much that I had to spend more money to redo the job. The filter acts like a sieve, and over time it gets clogged with debris—not replacing it means the new oil is wasted. After putting in a new filter, the car ran much smoother, and fuel efficiency improved slightly. The filter is even more critical for automatic transmissions, typically needing replacement every 60,000 kilometers, while manual transmissions can go a bit longer. The money spent is worth it to avoid major repair costs. Always consult with experienced mechanics—don’t make the same mistake I did.
