When Should the Transmission Fluid Be Changed?
2 Answers
Different types of transmissions have vastly different maintenance intervals. Manual transmissions using mineral oil require a fluid change every 2-3 years or 40,000-60,000 kilometers, while those using synthetic oil only need a change every 150,000-200,000 kilometers. Most automatic transmissions require a fluid change every 60,000-80,000 kilometers, with only a few models labeled as maintenance-free. Typically, automatic transmission fluid should be changed every 3-4 years or when the mileage reaches 60,000-80,000 kilometers. Dry dual-clutch transmissions share the same structure as manual transmissions and also use synthetic transmission fluid, with a lifespan exceeding 200,000 kilometers, essentially making them maintenance-free. Wet dual-clutch transmissions require a fluid and filter change every 60,000 kilometers, while CVT transmissions need a fluid change every 80,000-100,000 kilometers. During the replacement process, it is crucial to note that transmission fluids of different brands and models cannot be mixed. If you want to switch to another brand of transmission fluid, you must completely drain the original fluid before adding the new brand to avoid significant damage to the transmission. Automotive transmissions are generally divided into two types: manual and automatic. The replacement cycles for their respective transmission fluids are as follows: For manual transmission fluid, it is recommended to inspect every 10,000-15,000 kilometers and replace every 50,000-80,000 kilometers under normal conditions. For automatic transmission fluid, inspect every 10,000-15,000 kilometers and replace every 60,000-80,000 kilometers under normal conditions. Hazards of long-term failure to change transmission fluid: If transmission fluid is not changed for a long time, the vehicle may experience delayed starts when cold. Prolonged failure to change transmission fluid can cause the fluid to thicken, potentially blocking the transmission cooler, leading to overheating, increased wear, and in severe cases, damage to internal transmission components. Long-term neglect of transmission fluid changes may result in slight slipping sensations during driving. Precautions for changing transmission fluid: It is best to have automatic transmission fluid changed at a 4S shop to avoid potential damage from unqualified repair shops. Never use inferior transmission fluid: Low-quality or counterfeit fluids have poor heat resistance, oxidize easily, and can form sludge or debris, clogging filters and reducing fluid pressure. This significantly affects shift quality, may cause air pockets leading to unstable pressure, and damages friction materials, seals, and metal parts, ultimately causing transmission malfunction.
I think when to change transmission oil depends on how you drive. If you often get stuck in traffic in big cities with frequent stop-and-go driving, the transmission oil heats up quickly and wears out faster, so you might need to change it every 30,000 kilometers or so. If you do a lot of highway driving, the interval can be longer, around 40,000 to 50,000 kilometers. Automatic transmission cars are more sensitive to the oil, and delaying the change can lead to slipping or shaking, increasing repair costs. I use my car frequently and always ask the mechanic to check the oil color during maintenance. If it turns black or smells burnt, I change it immediately. Delaying it can cause rough shifting or even damage the entire transmission, which is costly and dangerous. In short, following the owner's manual recommendations and regular maintenance is the safest approach.
