Should the transmission fluid be replaced by gravity or circulation when changing it in the Sylphy?
3 Answers
The transmission fluid in the Sylphy only needs to be replaced by gravity. Below is a detailed introduction about the Sylphy: 1. Overview: The Sylphy is a mid-size car under Dongfeng Motor Co., Ltd., and is one of the most typical mainstream family sedans in the Chinese market (alongside models like the Octavia PRO, Sagitar, Lavida, Corolla, and Bora). Its fuel consumption ranges from 4.9 to 6.1L/100km, with a displacement of 1.6L. 2. Other features: It is equipped with a 1.6L naturally aspirated engine that meets the China VI emission standards, delivering a maximum power of 99kW (135 horsepower) and a peak torque of 159Nm. The transmission system is paired with a CVT gearbox. It also features the new Nissan-Connect super-smart connectivity system and an external 8-inch high-definition capacitive touchscreen.
For changing the transmission fluid in a Nissan Sylphy, after driving for almost ten years, I believe the gravity method is the most practical choice. It's simple to perform, can be done quickly at a repair shop, and is cost-effective, usually costing just a couple hundred yuan—saving more than half compared to the flush method. The gravity method involves draining the old fluid naturally and then adding new fluid. Although it only replaces about 50-60% of the old fluid, for a daily driver like the Sylphy, the transmission is unlikely to encounter major issues, and a fluid change every 60,000 kilometers is generally sufficient. Unless your car frequently travels at high speeds or tows heavy loads, causing the transmission fluid to degrade due to high temperatures, then the flush method might be worth considering. The flush method requires specialized equipment to pump new fluid in and flush out the old, replacing about 80-90% of the fluid. While it sounds effective, it's time-consuming, expensive, and may even damage components if not done properly. For a regular commuter car, it's unnecessary. My advice is to find a reliable mechanic to inspect the transmission's condition. If everything is normal, regular gravity changes are sufficient and help avoid wasting resources.
From a cost-saving perspective, using the gravity method to change the transmission fluid for the Sylphy is more economical. A gravity change costs around 300 yuan, while a flush can run you 800 to 1,000 yuan—several times more expensive. I've seen many people opt for the flush hoping for a more thorough result, only to spend extra money without significant improvement. The Sylphy's transmission design is stable, and the gravity method can remove most impurities. Unless your car has experienced slipping or gear-shifting hesitation, upgrading isn't necessary. Additionally, a gravity change can be done during regular maintenance without extra downtime, and repair shops often offer package deals. Although a flush cleans more thoroughly, the additional cost and risks aren't worth it, especially for those who mainly drive in the city or take it easy with family. If you're on a tight budget, I highly recommend the gravity method, paired with a check every 50,000 kilometers—this approach is both hassle-free and extends component lifespan.
