What about transmission fluid?

**rabbi** · 02-28-2005, 04:24 PM

Since oil changes were brought up how about the changing of automatic transmission fluid. How often do you change it and does anyone use synthetic transmission fluid?

**Scott P** · 02-28-2005, 04:32 PM

I change transmission fluid (drain pan and replace filter) every two years. I run regular Valvoline ATF. I`ve heard good and bad with synthetic, so I stick with the more economical option. I ran Mobil 1 ATF in my previous transmission, but it was replaced a few years later. Personally, I don`t thnk there was a problem with the tranny, but it was a warranty claim, so I didn`t put up much of a fight.

**Bob** · 02-28-2005, 04:41 PM

Not sure on automatics. I would go with what the manufacturer tells you to and then stick with a good brand name. I know for manual transmissions I love GM`s syncromesh stuff.

**MS22** · 02-28-2005, 04:46 PM

Changed mine this past summer and replaced with Redline MTF. As for the timeline my mechanic says to check it every six months and when it turns a brownish color opposed to the reddish it started it is time to replace. This is all of a manual though so . . .

**Bill D** · 02-28-2005, 05:59 PM

Bobistheoilguy has outstanding info on any automotive fluid you`d want to know about

**ernman** · 03-01-2005, 06:42 PM

your manual will tell you when to change it. My nissan is 60,000 and my subaru is 30,000.

**Freyguy** · 03-09-2005, 09:03 AM

I`ve always kinda stuck with 50,000 miles, but now I realize it should have been more like 25-30,000. I was lazy with my current truck and just changed it at 68,000 to Amsoil ATF. I was planning on taking it to Jiffy Lube because they have an exchange machine that makes sure all the fluid is changed, but they couldn`t use my synthetic. I then read up on how to do a full system flush and did it myself. It wasn`t too bad, but was definitely a mess. The old fluid was still in good condition, but the tranny is running cooler now and the shifts seem to be a bit firmer. Possibly since the oil is a bit lighter. Now that I have synthetic, I`ll prob just drop the pan and change the filter/screen and the 7 quarts in there more often.

**klnyc** · 03-09-2005, 09:13 AM

Ah, you gotta love Honda/Acura, theres no stinky filty filter and gasket to deal with. Just drain and fill and you done

**Corey S.** · 03-09-2005, 04:17 PM

30,000-40,000. And I take it to the dealer to get it flushed, not just drained.

**Rub it out** · 03-26-2005, 07:43 AM

Freyguy,I also used the Amsoil ATF. Did you drain the TC as well? When I did my F-150 it took 16 Qts.

**pappy** · 03-26-2005, 10:03 AM

if u do it or anyone else in that matter make sure its right on the mark for how full they get it. if its to full somethings may start leaking....never had it happen but ive heard stories..

**John Styrnol** · 03-26-2005, 10:34 AM

Just had my tranny flushed, fluid replaced (Mercon), and filter changed yesterday on the X. They recommend to do the same every 30,000. I will most likely wait to 40,000.

Boss_429 · 03-26-2005, 12:03 PM

Any fluids that cool, lubricate and/or clean should maintained according to the manufacturers specs... doing it sooner than those specs require sure won`t hurt.

I love synthetic lubricatants and use them where ever I can!