How Often to Change Transmission Fluid

When it comes to car care, a lot of attention is paid to oil, and rightfully so; it greatly affects engine performance. It’s not the only vital fluid in a vehicle, however. Your car’s transmission also requires clean fluid to function properly. If you’re wondering how often to change transmission fluid, this guide from Pacific Honda will clue you in.

What Does Transmission Fluid Do?

The main job of transmission fluid is to keep the moving parts in the system well-lubricated. With an automatic transmission, the fluid also works to keep things cool. Over time, the fluid in the transmission becomes thick and dirty, which hinders the lubrication it can provide — this is why it needs to be changed.

When Should Transmission Fluid Be Changed?

The good news with transmission fluid is that it isn’t generally something you need to worry about too often. The general recommendation with a manual transmission is to change it every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. With an automatic, that can increase to between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. If you do a lot of heavy-duty driving — such as towing and hauling — the fluid may need to be swapped out earlier.

How Do I Know How Often to Change Transmission Fluid?

Aside from the number of miles you rack up, there are other indications telling you that a fluid exchange could be necessary. If your fluid is dark — instead of the bright red it starts off as — this is a warning sign. Other red flags include difficulty shifting gears, a grinding sound while shifting, or unexpected surging.

Get the Transmission Service You Need in San Diego, CA

Because the transmission is such a vital part of a car, it always needs to be in good condition. If you suspect something is wrong with yours, get in touch with the service center at Pacific Honda. We’ll figure out the issue and make sure you get the right fix.