What Are the Hazards of Not Changing Transmission Fluid?
2 Answers
The hazards of not changing transmission fluid are as follows: 1. Prolonged failure to change the transmission fluid can lead to abnormal wear and severe deterioration of the fluid. 2. Under high-speed and high-temperature conditions, old transmission fluid can deteriorate and evaporate, accelerating the wear of mechanical components. In severe cases, it may damage internal transmission parts and shorten the vehicle's lifespan. 3. Over time, the transmission fluid can become granular, clogging the oil passages and damaging the valve body, which directly affects system oil pressure and power transmission. This can result in delayed responses and gear-shifting shocks. Generally, the replacement interval for transmission fluid follows the same calculation method as the vehicle's maintenance cycle, based on mileage or usage time. If the vehicle's manual specifies these indicators, the earlier one should be followed. If the manual does not provide such indicators or does not clearly state the fluid change interval, it is typically recommended to replace the transmission fluid every 50,000 to 80,000 kilometers.
As a seasoned driver, let me tell you, neglecting transmission fluid changes is extremely dangerous! Last year, I forgot to change my car's transmission fluid, and while driving on the highway, the gear shifts suddenly became rough, and the car felt like it was slipping. Later, upon inspection, it was found that the fluid had deteriorated, filled with metal shavings, and the gears were severely worn, nearly ruining the entire transmission. The mechanic explained that old fluid loses its lubricating properties, increasing friction, leading to overheating and noise. Over time, this can cause gear slippage or complete failure, with repairs costing at least tens of thousands. Worse yet, a failure while driving can easily lead to accidents, such as sudden loss of power on the highway, which is more than just a financial issue. So, I recommend following the maintenance schedule in your owner's manual—usually every 40,000 kilometers or so—and using the right fluid for regular maintenance. It's a small expense to avoid a major disaster.
