What are the reasons for regularly changing transmission fluid?
2 Answers
Prolonged use of transmission fluid can lead to unstable pressure, and failure to replace it in a timely manner will shorten the lifespan of both the fluid and transmission components. The transmission is a crucial part of the vehicle's drivetrain and one of its most precise components. Once issues arise, repair costs can be extremely high. Therefore, timely replacement of transmission fluid is a wise decision. Below are the reasons for replacement: 1. Prolonged use of transmission fluid affects performance: Over time, the lubricating properties of transmission fluid degrade, causing unstable pressure and impacting the accuracy of the hydraulic system, further reducing the lifespan of the fluid and transmission components. 2. Replacement interval for automatic transmission fluid: Automakers generally recommend replacing automatic transmission fluid every 60,000 kilometers or approximately 4 years. Delaying replacement can directly affect vehicle performance, fuel consumption, and even the lifespan of the automatic transmission.
My car previously had gear shifting issues too, and the technician told me transmission fluid is like the lifeblood of an engine – it needs regular changes. Over time, old fluid oxidizes and deteriorates, reducing lubrication effectiveness, accelerating gear and bearing wear, and accumulating metal debris that clogs oil passages. Automatic transmissions require extra attention because fluid pressure controls gear shifts – degraded fluid directly causes jerky shifts or slippage. Prolonged neglect can burn out clutch plates, with repairs costing thousands. I now change factory-approved fluid every 60,000 km – preventive maintenance is far more economical than transmission overhauls.
