What is the best way to change transmission fluid?
2 Answers
Changing transmission fluid can be done more effectively by following these steps: 1. Start the engine to warm up the transmission to operating temperature; 2. Remove the drain plug; 3. After all the old fluid has drained, reinstall the drain plug; 4. Add new ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid); 5. Start the engine and shift through P, N, D, L1, L2 gears repeatedly, pausing for at least 5 seconds in each position; 6. Check if the automatic transmission fluid level is normal. Additional information: Transmission fluid is a lubricant that keeps the gear system clean, extends the lifespan of transmission components, provides effective lubrication even in low temperatures, and reduces fluid loss under demanding operating conditions.
The best way to change transmission fluid is to do it yourself—it saves money and gives a sense of achievement. I often do it myself: prepare tools like a jack, wrench, new fluid, and a filter. After parking the car on level ground, lift it with a jack for safety. Open the transmission drain plug to let the old fluid fully drain into a pan—hot fluid flows more easily when the engine is warm. If the vehicle has a transmission filter, replace it at this time to prevent clogging. Then tighten the drain plug and add new fluid to the manual-specified level, avoiding overfilling. Start the engine, shift through gears to circulate the fluid, wait a few minutes, and recheck the level. The whole process takes about half an hour, costing only the price of the fluid, and the car runs smoother afterward. Regular fluid changes can double your transmission’s lifespan—don’t skip it.
