Your car’s transmission is a set of gears that transfers power from the engine to the wheels. As these gears turn, they generate a tremendous amount of heat. Over time, the fluid responsible for lubricating and cooling the transmission will degrade and lose its effectiveness. To ignore the condition of this fluid is to increase the risk of expensive repairs. Generally, a transmission fluid change cost is relatively inexpensive compared to repairing or replacing the entire system.
Think A Transmission Fluid Change Cost Is Too Expensive?
When your transmission fails, it can cost thousands of dollars to replace or rebuild it. Yet, performing routine maintenance can extend the life of this system. One of the easiest ways to keep your transmission running properly is to replace the fluid. For an automatic system, most experts advise every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. However, check your vehicle owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
Usually, transmission fluid replacement is a fairly easy job taking about 30 minutes. However, It can be very messy. Generally, the average cost to replace the fluid runs between $80 and $250.
Typically, the price difference is due to the type of fluid required by the automobile manufacturer. First, automakers build either manual or automatic transmissions. Furthermore, automatic transmissions have increased from just 3 gears in older cars to as many as 10 in modern vehicles. Thus, today’s transmission systems have become quite complicated and require specific base oils and additives.
At any rate, choosing the correct fluid is critical for the health of your transmission. Moreover, the big 3 American automakers created their own specific designations for their systems: Dexron VI, Mercon V, and ATF+4. Additionally, cars require different amounts of fluid. You’ll find the specifications for your vehicle in your owner’s manual.
Signs You Need A Transmission Fluid Change
Brand new transmission fluid is a translucent red. As it ages and deteriorates, the color will change to dark brown or black. While older cars have dipsticks, many modern cars have sealed transmission systems preventing you from checking the fluid. As the fluid ages, you may notice these signs indicating you need to replace it:
- Difficulty shifting gears
- Slipping out of gear
- Whining noise
- Can’t shift reverse gear
- Engine running hot
- Grinding noise
- Poor acceleration
- Dashboard indicator light illuminated
If you notice any problems, you should bring your car in for servicing as soon as possible. Driving with a malfunctioning transmission can be extremely dangerous. For instance, your vehicle could jerk when shifting gears making it difficult to control your car. Also, the transmission could cause your engine to overheat or the system could completely fail.
Dealership, Independent Auto Repair, Or Transmission Shop
When it’s time to replace your transmission fluid, where is the best place to bring your vehicle? Is it better to bring your automobile to the dealership, auto service center, or transmission shop?
Typically, you can find many good mechanics at both dealerships and service centers. Generally, it’s the methods of training that differ between technicians. Furthermore, a transmission shop is just another type of independent auto repair shop specializing in this system.
For example, dealership mechanics undergo factory training specific to their brand. While independent technicians use an independent non-profit organization (ASE) for certification of an individual’s knowledge and skill. However, independent shops usually have lower overhead costs and can charge less than a dealership.
Transmission Fluid Change Cost FAQs
Many car owners worry about a transmission fluid change cost. More importantly, you should consider the expense of what happens when you don’t replace this fluid. If you need some expert advice about your transmission, call Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville at 336-993-7697. Below, we answer a few commonly asked questions about transmission fluid.
Does A Quoted Price Include The Cost Of Replacing The Filter?
Typically, when you bring your car in for a transmission fluid replacement, the service station will also change the filter. Filters are generally inexpensive ranging in price from about $15 – $50. If you’re not sure what’s included, ask before the technician begins working on your car.
Is It Necessary To Flush The Transmission System?
Unfortunately, many experts don’t agree on the benefits of a transmission flush. This process involves using a high-pressure machine and a cleaning agent to completely remove all the old fluid. Sometimes, a transmission flush can loosen and disturb deposits without removing them from your system. Then, these contaminants can move to places where they can cause harm to your system.
However, the alternative, a transmission fluid replacement, leaves some old fluid in the system. To drain old fluid, you need to either drop the pan or pull the plug. Usually, after draining, you’ll still have a significant amount of old fluid in the system. Adding fresh fluid will improve performance, but not as much as a complete fluid replacement.
Which is best for your vehicle? Bring your car to us and we’ll be happy to discuss the best course of action.
Where’s The Best Place To Get My Transmission Serviced?
For over 25 years, Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville has been providing high-quality automotive services:
- Oil change
- Transmission servicing, repair, and replacement
- Brake repair and replacement
- Air conditioning charge and repair
- Tire repair and replacement
- Wheel alignment
- Exhaust system repair
- Fuel system repair
- Electrical diagnostic
- State safety and emission inspection
- And more!
Our shop is well known for its family-friendly atmosphere, fast service, and competitive pricing. Why not call us right now at 336-993-7697 to make an appointment? You can also schedule a time slot by using our online form.