It may be hard to keep track of the costs to keep your car in good health.
Not only do you have to consider that, but you also have to consider the cost to have your transmission fluid changed by an auto mechanic in a shop, an auto dealer, a service center, or an independent mechanic, which can cost anywhere from $80 to $250.
The average cost for either automatic or manual transmissions is roughly $100.
In this post, we will dive into the costs surrounding a transmission fluid change, determining whether or not a transmission flush is necessary, among other things!
What is a Transmission Fluid Change?
A transmission fluid change is the removal of a large amount of buildup within your system.
Although changing the fluid replaces old with new, it is a service frequently recommended by many mechanics.
Many auto professionals recommend having a transmission fluid change every 30,000 miles.
What do the experts say?
For a basic transmission fluid change, expect to spend around $100 for manual and automatic transmissions.
According to several articles, auto experts believe that you should change your filter and clean your pan each time your mechanic changes your fluid.
Over time, contaminants build up in the filter and pan, and this can reduce the efficacy of new fluid if they are allowed to remain.
Although your mechanic does not have to do this each time, it will help the transmission last longer and save away repair bills.
There is a statistic that states that modern cars use a specialized type of transmission fluid. Fluid ATF+4 or SP4 (a common one) can run between $8 to $20 per quart, and a fluid change will take 5 to 15 quarts of fluid.
You also pay $15-$30 for a new filter if an auto technician tells you that you need one. In some instances, drivers need to buy a pan gasket too. So then it can range from $75 – $150 for drivers of average car models.
What Factors Affect the Cost?
- Where the flush is performed: is it done by you, or done by a mechanic or service shop?
- Your car’s make and model. You can expect to pay more for high-end models.
- What type of automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is used to flush the system?
- The flushing amount of fluid that your car requires.
- Lastly, what is the labor cost?
Transmission fluid change prices at Jiffy Lube?
We searched around, and we came across the AutoServicePrices.com website. According to this website, Jiffy Lube’s prices for an “Automatic Transmission Fluid/Filter Change” is $155.00.
They also provide the following services that this reputable national chain offers:
- Automatic Transmission Fluid/Filter Change for $155.00
- T-TECH Transmission Service (100% full synthetic fluid change) for $140.00
- T-TECH Combo (with Filter Change) for $170.00
- Transmission Drain and Fill (does not include oil) for $50.00.
We took a moment to call the nice agents at the Valvoline location in Redford Township, Michigan. The average cost of a transmission fluid change is $169.00.
As a trusted leader in auto maintenance, Valvoline also states, “Help keep your gears shifting smoothly — with transmission fluid replacement services from Valvoline Instant Oil Change. Our certified technicians can perform this service in about 20 minutes, while you wait in the convenience of your vehicle.”
What is Transmission Fluid Anyway?
Transmission fluid is simply a moving liquid that serves as a lubricant and is especially slippery. This important liquid allows for the performance of the many moving parts in your vehicle’s transmission.
For vehicles with an automatic transmission, transmission fluid also performs the additional function of cooling and transmitting power from the engine to the transmission.
And for cars with an automatic transmission, you will be using automatic transmission fluid.
If you have a manual car, you have a manual transmission and a variety of oils.
These may come as heavyweight hypoid gear oil, motor oil, or even automatic transmission fluid.
Your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic can help with identifying what fluid goes in your car correctly.
Should I Change the Transmission Fluid Based on My Owner’s Manual?
Yes, the answer to this question is yes, whether you have a manual transmission or an automatic.
For Manual: It is recommended by the majority of auto experts and manufacturers to change your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. If you are using your vehicle for any heavy-duty purposes, some manufacturers recommend you change it every 15,000 miles.
For Automatics: Automatic transmission service intervals range from every 30,000 miles for basic maintenance to almost never; most car manufacturers say just have it serviced if needed.
Most car manufacturers recommend a service interval between 60,000 and 100,000 miles.
There is no harm in changing it sooner and more often if you feel the need.
What happens if I do not change my transmission fluid?
If you allow your car to sit low on transmission fluid, it can cause improper shifting or possibly won’t shift at all.
Low transmission fluid levels can also damage the internal parts of the transmission.
How often should I change my transmission fluid?
The most reliable way to decide how often to change your transmission fluid would be to follow the manufacturer’s suggestions or recommendations.
Or you could also ask your trusted mechanic. Changing your fluid is generally dependent on the year, make, and model of your car, so this will be very different for everyone.
Can I change the transmission fluid myself?
If you have an automatic transmission, changing the automatic transmission fluid is best service at an auto shop. They use proper training and equipment to ensure you get your transmission fluid change done effectively and properly. Using the proper equipment will allow for a complete fluid exchange.
What are the signs of low transmission fluid?
Now you know that transmission fluid for the transmission system is important. It keeps all the parts of the system lubricated and functioning well. Low transmission fluid can also damage some car parts.
And you don’t want that damage. Damage could create significant repair costs for you! Check out a few indicators of low transmission fluid that you should be aware of.
You are driving and have trouble shifting gears.
One of the reasons for these types of issues is debris in the transmission fluid. The transmission fluid must be clear and clean at all times, whether you are driving a manual transmission or an automatic transmission vehicle.
Polluted or dirty fluid will cause the vehicle to respond slowly when you struggle to shift gears. If you notice you are low on transmission fluid (and you definitely don’t want to be low on it), then you can expect to have trouble changing gears.
You feel unusual shifts.
You will also be low on transmission fluid if the gear change you made in your automatic vehicle happens faster or slower than you expected.
You may even hear a knocking sound if you are experiencing a problem with low transmission fluid. The hydraulic pressure has to be exactly right in order for the gear change to be smooth. If you have very little fluid or no fluid, you will disrupt the process of shifting time.
Surging movement occurs.
Seeing surging movement when the car is moving is another symptom of low transmission fluid. Surging means the car will bolt and jerk, rather than just continue at normal driving speed.
Delayed gear engagement.
Have you ever had a delay in shifting gears, such as three to four seconds? That is a sure sign that your transmission fluid may be low.
Slipping gears.
If your gears are having a hard time staying in gear, then it is more than likely that you are experiencing low transmission fluid. Or, you have a buildup of debris or particles that are obstructing the fluid from flowing.
Should I change the Transmission Fluid if it has never been changed?
There are a number of fluids that help keep your car in great condition and running smoothly. However, one of the most important of these fluids to maintain is your transmission fluid.
There is much debate about how many services for your transmission fluid you should do and why. Some automotive experts may even say you need to, while others say it will depend on your vehicle.
You can’t go wrong if you follow your manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for your vehicle’s transmission fluid changing intervals.
As with many automotive fluids, the transmission fluid can break down over time. This will be greater if you use your vehicle for stop-and-go city driving.
Further, if you regularly carry heavy loads or equipment, you will likely need to change the transmission fluid far more often than a driver who conveys lighter loads.
OK- How do I check my transmission fluid?
Here are the steps!
- Pull your car onto level ground. You may want to utilize your parking brake!
- Start your engine.
- Make sure to leave your car in park or neutral.
- Allow it to warm up, and keep the engine running for the duration of the operation unless the owner’s manual instructs otherwise.
- Some automatic transmission fluid levels are checked with the engine off.
- Locate your automatic transmission fluid dipstick or fill tube around where the transmission or transaxle meets the back of the engine. The automatic transmission dipstick may look like an oil dipstick!!
- Remove your automatic transmission liquid dipstick.
- Wipe it clean.
- Then reinsert the automatic transmission fluid dipstick all the way, and remove it again.
- BE CAREFUL!! THAT FLUID MAY BE HOT!!
- Now look at the markings that are at the end of the dipstick.
- You may see two markings on your dipstick, “full” that indicate one warm and one cold.
- If the automatic transmission fluid does not come up to the “warm” line, you will need to add Automatic Transmission Fluid.
- Grab a long funnel, and insert it into the automatic transmission fluid dipstick hole.
- Carefully add automatic fluid in small increments.
- Take your time!
- Remember to also check your level each time you add fluid until your level is up to the “warm” line.
- PLEASE DO NOT OVERFILL OR GET AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID ON HOT ENGINE PARTS!!
- Then take your time, and fully insert the automatic transmission fluid dipstick back the same way that you removed it.
- Now you’re done!!
- Be sure to deposit your containers with fluid either in a recycling bin or in your trash.
- You don’t want to let fluid drops hit your driveway or the street.
4 Secrets to Preserve the Life of Your Transmission Fluid
#1. Always regularly check the fluid level.
Most vehicles depend on their transmission fluids. Ongoing maintenance with this fluid can extend the life of the transmission.
You or someone competent should check the fluid level every so often. Especially if your vehicle is older. Remember, heat is the enemy.
Always keep your vehicle out of a heated state, and check your fluid levels regularly, like once a month.
#2. Synthetic fluid is best if your vehicle allows for it.
Synthetic fluids seem life the rage right now, because they only elevate the fault of most vehicles. Studies show these fluids also provide better performance.
They resist heat shear breakdown and oxidation! You should check with your mechanic or dealership to see if you can use synthetic fluid for your vehicle.
#3. Service your transmission every 30,000 miles.
If you have an older car or do a high volume of driving in a city, consider servicing the transmission every 30,000 miles. This is preventive maintenance that will also help save on expensive repairs down the road.
#4. Check and service your vehicle’s cooling system.
Since heat is bad for your transmission, your vehicle has a radiator that helps with the cooling process as well. So, ensure you have a chance to service your vehicle’s cooling system at least every 1-2 years.
Take the time to check your vehicle’s coolant levels, replace the coolant/antifreeze, check for leaks, and check for any damage.