Transmission Filter and Fluid Change
How are automatic transmission fluid and filter issues diagnosed?
Transmission fluid and filter changes normally do not require a diagnosis. They are most often completed as scheduled maintenance, or as part of a repair that requires draining the transmission fluid. If the transmission is being diagnosed for other issues, the fluid and filter may be replaced as a step in the diagnosis, or the transmission may require flushing.
How are the transmission fluid and filter replaced?
For many transmissions, the transmission oil pan must first be removed in order to change the fluid and filter. The transmission pan gasket, which is the most common source of a transmission leak, is replaced as part of the service. The filter typically has only a few screws at most, and the transmission pan can be replaced and filled with transmission fluid.
RepairPal recommendations for transmission fluid and filter issues
We recommend using replacement transmission filters that original equipment manufacturer-quality or better. Inferior filters can let through small particles that can quickly damage internal components. By using a quality filter, the transmission is protected from these particles.
What to look out for when dealing with transmission fluid and filter issues
There are many types of transmission fluids, and they are not typically interchangeable. Check your owner's manual to ensure you have the correct fluid for your transmission. If the wrong transmission fluid is added, the resulting damage could be severe.