Should the Filter Element Be Replaced When Changing Transmission Fluid?

[ThomasMarie]

Changing transmission fluid requires replacing the filter element. There are three main reasons for this: 1. Over time, transmission fluid accumulates increasing impurities: The filter can become clogged, reducing its effectiveness and allowing contaminants to enter the transmission directly, accelerating wear and significantly shortening the transmission's lifespan. 2. During vehicle operation, friction between mechanical metal components inside the transmission can generate impurities and metal debris: The transmission fluid filter's role is to filter out iron particles, sediment, and other impurities from the transmission fluid, supplying clean fluid to all components for lubrication and cleaning. 3. Some vehicle models lack a separate transmission fluid drain hole, requiring the oil pan to be removed for fluid changes: This includes the filter element, which must also be replaced. Models with a separate transmission fluid drain hole may have maintenance-free filter elements that do not require replacement.