What Happens If You Don't Change Automatic Transmission Fluid?
3 Answers
Hazards of not changing automatic transmission fluid: 1. It may cause transmission slippage in the vehicle; 2. The fluid particles in the transmission may clog oil passages and damage valve bodies, directly affecting system oil pressure and power transmission, leading to delayed response and gear shift impacts; 3. It not only increases fuel consumption and slows down acceleration but also accelerates wear on mechanical components. In severe cases, it can damage internal transmission parts, shortening the vehicle's lifespan. Besides its conventional roles in lubrication, cleaning, and cooling, transmission fluid also transmits engine power in the torque converter and conveys working pressure in the hydraulic system, ensuring proper operation of shift actuators.
Not changing the transmission fluid can lead to serious problems. A friend of mine once told me he drove for five years without changing the fluid, and the car ended up with severe gear-shifting jerks on the highway—it was terrifying. When he took it for repairs, the technician said the fluid had oxidized, its viscosity had dropped, and the gears weren’t lubricated enough, causing the clutch plates to wear and overheat. The repair cost over 8,000 yuan, nearly half the price of a whole new transmission. In fact, transmission fluid needs regular replacement, typically every 30,000–40,000 kilometers or every three years, to keep it clean and prevent debris from clogging the valves. Ignoring this may initially just cause rough shifting and increased noise, but if left unchecked, the transmission could fail completely. Now, I always change the fluid on schedule and use the manufacturer-recommended fluid, ensuring smooth and worry-free driving. Regular maintenance is much cheaper than repairs and also ensures safe driving. Remember, the condition of your fluids directly affects your car’s performance—don’t slack off.
As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience, I've witnessed numerous transmission failures stemming from neglected oil changes. Over time, the oil deteriorates, accumulating metal shavings and contaminants, which diminishes its lubrication and cooling capabilities. This leads to delayed gear shifts or shuddering, and in severe cases, causes internal slippage, overheating, and damage to seals and transmission components. Once the transmission burns out, repair costs can easily exceed tens of thousands, sometimes necessitating a complete replacement. I advise car owners to adhere to the maintenance manual, changing the oil approximately every 40,000 kilometers using professional equipment for a thorough replacement. Additionally, monitor the oil's color; if it appears murky or emits a burnt odor, address it promptly. Regular maintenance not only extends the transmission's lifespan but also enhances fuel efficiency—a small investment to prevent major losses. Don't wait for problems to arise before regretting; safety comes first.
