Why Should Transmission Fluid Be Replaced?
4 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 keep the shifting system clean; 4. To extend the lifespan of the transmission components; 5. To prevent the transmission fluid from thinning 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. Remove the transmission fluid filter; 4. Take off the oil pan gasket and clean surrounding stains; 5. Wipe the cleaned transmission fluid filter with cotton cloth; 6. Add new fluid and complete the installation.
Changing the transmission fluid is really important. From my own driving experience, if you don't change it in time, impurities in the fluid will accumulate, wearing out the gear components, and over time, shifting will become less smooth. Once, my old car went too long without a fluid change, resulting in slipping and jerking, and the repair cost me several thousand dollars. In fact, transmission fluid is just like engine oil—it needs regular maintenance to ensure proper lubrication and prevent overheating. I recommend changing it every 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers, or as specified in the maintenance manual, and never delay it. This will make driving smoother and also extend the life of the transmission, saving you money and hassle.
I consider transmission fluid replacement a fundamental part of vehicle maintenance. In the repair cases I've encountered, when the fluid becomes dirty or deteriorates, the hydraulic system tends to fail, affecting shift responsiveness. Under high-temperature conditions, the fluid degrades faster, producing carbon deposits that lead to transmission slippage or unusual noises. Simply put, the freshness of the fluid directly impacts driving safety, especially during long-distance trips where risks are higher. I recommend regularly checking the fluid's color and consistency - if it turns black or thickens, it's time for a change. Using the specified fluid type yields better results, preventing minor issues from escalating into major problems.
As a daily commuter, I've found that changing transmission fluid makes the car more reliable. When the oil gets old, its lubricating ability declines, causing noticeable jerking when starting or accelerating/decelerating, especially when driving on mountain roads where overheating is more likely. Regular fluid changes reduce failure rates and prevent roadside breakdowns, which is crucial for family trips. Additionally, fuel consumption may improve slightly after replacement. Don't underestimate this small matter - it affects the whole system. Proper maintenance can save on repair costs.
