How many kilometers should I drive before changing the transmission fluid in my car?
Changing transmission fluid may seem simple, but neglecting it and changing it at the right time can cause unexpected and rapid damage to your car's engine.
According to experts, there are two types of automatic transmissions equipped in cars: automatic transmissions with a dipstick (open transmissions) and automatic transmissions without a dipstick (closed transmissions).
Automakers recommend changing the automatic transmission fluid every 50,000 km for vehicles with open transmissions. For sealed transmissions, experienced users advise changing it after approximately 120,000 - 150,000 km.
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Automakers recommend changing the automatic transmission fluid every 50,000 km for vehicles with exposed transmissions. |
Automatic transmissions use a special type of fluid called ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) which is responsible for transmitting engine power, lubricating gears, bearings, etc.
Therefore, gearbox oil has some very strict requirements such as anti-foaming properties, maintaining fluidity at low temperatures, and minimal viscosity changes… So, when changing it, the appropriate type of oil must be selected.
Additionally, each manufacturer has different requirements for transmission fluid change schedules. Therefore, it's best to first check the information in the owner's manual that came with your vehicle.
Technically, draining automatic transmission fluid is more complex than draining engine oil, so it's necessary to completely drain the fluid from the bottom of the oil pan and in the torque converter.
Before draining the oil, the engine needs to be warmed up. Then, remove the automatic transmission fluid drain bolt at the bottom of the oil pan to allow all the oil to drain out. Next, drain the torque converter fluid. During the draining process, the engine must be running and the vehicle in gear to ensure all the remaining fluid in the torque converter is expelled.
