How to Change Transmission Oil?

If you want your car to run well, you should regularly change the transmission oil. Regularly changing the transmission fluid in any car ensures that gear shifts work smoothly, the engine is protected from overheating, and your vehicle remains at peak performance.

Steps of Changing Transmission Oil

Step 1: Prepare Your Vehicle

After parking your car, make sure the engine is cooled down before starting it again. Apply the parking brake to enhance your car’s safety. If required, elevate the car with a jack and fasten it to blocks or ramps so you can access the transmission pan.

Make sure to safeguard your eyes and hands with glasses and gloves.

Step 2: Locate the Transmission Pan and Drain Plug

Your service manual should have the location of the transmission pan and the place to unplug the drain. Many vehicles have their transmission pan in the space beneath the car, near the engine. Set the drain pan so it will collect all the liquid draining out of the plug.

Step 3: Remove the Old Transmission Oil

Make sure to use a socket wrench to take out the drain plug from the tank. All the old transmission oil should slowly go into the pan until there is none left. You might need to spend 5–10 minutes on this.

Some cars lack a drain plug and need you to remove and empty the whole transmission pan.

Step 4: Remove the Transmission Pan (If Required)

If your car needs it, remove the bolts that secure the transmission pan in place. When the tire is out, look for any bits of metal or debris inside, as they can point to wear or harm. Rub the pan with a cloth or brake cleaner to make sure it is clean.

Step 5: Replace the Transmission Filter

A filter in the automatic transmission must be changed whenever the fluid is exchanged. Replace the old filter with the new one and make sure to fasten it in place according to the guidelines.

Keep in mind that some car models do not come equipped with filters that drivers can clean or replace. Review the manual to learn for sure.

Step 6: Reinstall the Pan and Drain Plug

After you have cleaned everything and put in the new filter, reinstall the pan using a torque wrench to tighten the bolts according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure the drain plug is tight once you have placed it.

Step 7: Fill the Car With Transmission Oil

Pour the correct amount and right kind of fluid through a funnel and into the transmission by using the dipstick tube or the fill plug. Make sure not to put too much into your measuring cup.

Your owner’s manual tells you the type and amount of the fluid you need, such as ATF, CVT, or manual gear oil.

Step 8: Inspect the Fluid Level

Start your car and let it rest with the engine turned on for several minutes. Most cars have gears labeled P, R, N, D, and by shifting between them, the fluid is helped to distribute properly. After that, pull the transmission fluid dipstick and check the fluid level while the engine runs. Make changes to the amount of fluid in the mixture if needed.

Check that the fluid goes up to the “Full” or “Hot” section on the dipstick.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Make sure you have all the materials on hand before starting.

• The Jacks are configured for standing or ramp mode.
• Socket wrench toolbox
• Drain pan
• Check your vehicle’s owner manual for the right transmission oil to use.
• Funnel
• Jumperless ignition system
• Cloth towels or rags
• Gloves and protective goggles
• Torque wrench (recommended)

Why is Transmission Oil Important?

Transmission oil acts as a lubricant and a coolant for the gears within your vehicle’s transmission system. When the oil is no longer clean, it becomes less effective and can result in difficult gear shifting, overheating, and a defective transmission.

If you maintain your car and replace such things as the transmission oil from time to time, you can help your vehicle last longer and save money on costly repairs.

When Should You Change Your Transmission Oil?

You should check the manufacturer’s instructions to see how often you should replace the transmission fluid, but generally it should be done between 30,000 and 60,000 miles.

• Automatic transmissions need to be checked every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.
• Manual transmissions should be serviced every 30,000 to 50,000 miles

Make sure to check your owner’s manual to find out when the next service is due.

Transmission Oil Change vs. Transmission Flush

Transmission flushing is a method where a machine is used to clean out all the old and dirty transmission fluid. When you flush your system, it uses more fluid than a usual change, but not performing it properly may cause trouble for cars that have traveled a lot.

Replacing transmission oil by yourself is generally a safer and less complicated alternative because it does not force a lot of the liquid out.

Signs You Need to Change Your Transmission Oil

Are you questioning if a change is necessary? These are some warning signs to look out for:

• Slipping gears
• Slow or difficult gear shifting
• Transmission overheating
• Brownish or black fluid
• Burning smell

When you have any of these problems, you should check your transmission fluid or schedule an appointment with a mechanic.

Cost to Change Transmission Oil

Are you handling the task yourself? You should prepare your budget for:

• The prices for coming in and out of your car can be between $30 and $70 for fluids.
• A transmission filter kit can cost $15 to $25 when you purchase it.

The amount for a transmission oil change in a professionally run shop is typically $100 to $250, but it may vary by your car.

Final Thoughts

After learning how to change transmission oil, you can start taking good care of your car. If you fix your car or simply want to check, taking care of your transmission fluid is very important for your vehicle to function smoothly in the long run.

Make sure to consult your owner’s manual and add the proper type of fluid. Regular maintenance will ensure your transmission runs efficiently, lasts, and keeps you from having big repair costs.

FAQs

Can I Change Transmission Oil Myself?

You can do it, as long as you are using the right tools and following safety standards. But if the work near or under your vehicle makes you uncomfortable, call a professional mechanic.

How Often Should I Check My Transmission Fluid?

At the very least, once a month. If you get regular checks, you can see any issues right away and avoid shift-related problems.