Should Transmission Fluid Be Changed During Maintenance?
4 Answers
When performing maintenance at 40,000 kilometers or every two years, it is recommended to change the transmission fluid. The following two items should be replaced during car maintenance: 1. The essential items to replace are engine oil and the cabin air filter. 2. At 40,000 kilometers or every two years, it is advisable to change the transmission fluid, and clean the throttle body every 20,000 kilometers. Additional information: 1. Car maintenance, also known as vehicle upkeep, refers to the regular inspection, cleaning, replenishment, lubrication, adjustment, or replacement of certain parts as preventive measures. It primarily includes maintenance of the engine system, transmission system, air conditioning system, etc., aiming to keep the vehicle clean, ensure normal technical conditions, eliminate potential hazards, prevent malfunctions, and extend the service life. 2. Not all vehicle models are suitable for owners to change the engine oil themselves, but they can learn to check the oil dipstick to determine if the oil needs replacement. Additionally, the oil filter must be replaced whenever the engine oil is changed.
As someone who has been driving for ten years, I can confirm that transmission fluid really needs to be changed. It's like the blood in your body—over time, it gets dirty and thin, affecting the transmission's lifespan. I've seen many friends try to save money on this, only to end up with rough gear shifts or even a completely ruined transmission, costing thousands to repair. Generally, automatic transmission cars should have their fluid changed every 40,000 to 60,000 kilometers, while manual transmissions can stretch to around 80,000 kilometers. Regular fluid changes also make gear shifts smoother and save you some fuel costs. Remember, don't slack off—especially with older cars. Have the mechanic check the fluid level and color during every maintenance visit. If the color darkens or smells bad, change it immediately. The fluid change process is simple and doesn’t take much time, but it can save you from the embarrassment of breaking down on the road.
As a driver who frequently takes long-distance trips, I believe transmission fluid must be changed regularly. When the fluid ages, its lubrication effectiveness deteriorates, making gear components prone to damage under high temperatures. Based on my experience, it should be replaced every 50,000 kilometers or every 3 years—otherwise, gear slippage during long drives can be particularly dangerous. Automatic transmissions are even more sensitive; degraded fluid can cause jerky shifts, making the car feel like it's bumping. Cost-wise, a fluid change costs a few hundred yuan, which is far better than a transmission overhaul costing tens of thousands. You can also monitor it yourself: after starting the car, listen for unusual noises when shifting—any odd sounds may indicate fluid issues. When changing the fluid, choose the correct type and avoid mixing different brands, ensuring reliable after-sales service. In short, maintaining a car is like maintaining health—details determine safety.
I'm a car enthusiast who loves tinkering with vehicles, and transmission fluid changes are a must. Over time, the fluid accumulates metal shavings and contaminants, which can clog the pump and valves. For automatic transmissions, the fluid change interval is more frequent, while manual transmissions have slightly more leeway but still require maintenance. Generally, you should inspect it every 40,000 kilometers. If the fluid appears dark or has a burnt smell, it's a clear sign it needs replacing. Neglecting this can lead to minor issues like increased fuel consumption or severe consequences like transmission overheating and failure. I've tried DIY fluid changes before, but I recommend going to a professional shop—they use specialized tools for a more thorough job. After a fluid change, you'll notice smoother gear shifts and extended vehicle lifespan. Don't underestimate this maintenance task; it's just as crucial as engine oil.
