Why Does Transmission Fluid Need to Be Replaced?
3 Answers
Transmission fluid needs to be replaced for the following reasons: 1. The transmission requires gear oil for lubrication, cooling, cleaning, and corrosion prevention; 2. To reduce gear wear; 3. To maintain the cleanliness of the gear system; 4. To extend the lifespan of the transmission components; 5. To prevent the transmission fluid from becoming too thin and losing its lubricating properties. The steps for replacing transmission fluid are: 1. Remove the drain plug at the bottom of the transmission to drain the old fluid; 2. Remove the inner and outer transmission housing; 3. Take out the transmission fluid filter; 4. Remove the oil pan gasket and clean any surrounding stains; 5. Use a cotton cloth to wipe the cleaned transmission fluid filter dry; 6. Add new fluid and complete the installation.
I'm a seasoned transmission repair specialist, and I've seen too many gearboxes ruined by not changing the oil. Transmission fluid must be changed—it degrades just like engine oil. After 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers, the anti-wear additives in the oil are mostly depleted, causing direct metal-on-metal contact between gears. This generates metal shavings that mix with the oil, turning it into a grinding paste that accelerates wear. The hydraulic valve body is especially sensitive to dirty oil—sludge buildup leads to rough shifting. In summer heat, oil temperatures can exceed 120°C, drastically reducing lubrication performance. Last week, I repaired a Nissan Qashqai that hadn't had its oil changed for years—the steel belt was slipping, and the repair cost over 8,000 RMB. Regular oil changes are the most cost-effective solution; changing every 40,000 kilometers keeps transmissions running smoothly.
We office workers dread car troubles on the way to work the most. Last time my Golf 6 had gear shift jerks, the 4S shop said it was caused by not changing the transmission fluid for four years. The mechanic explained this fluid has three functions: lubricating planetary gears, transmitting hydraulic power, and cooling. Long-term neglect can form sludge that clogs the valve body, causing shift solenoid valves to stick and resulting in jerks. AT transmission fluid also affects torque converter lock-up; degraded fluid increases fuel consumption. Now I always remember the maintenance manual's recommendation to change it every 60,000 kilometers. A gravity fluid change costs just a few hundred yuan, much cheaper than repairing the transmission. Smooth gear shifts in automatic cars rely entirely on this fluid.