Change or Flush Car Automatic Transmission Fluid

Introduction

Your car’s automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is essential for the smooth and efficient operation of your transmission. It lubricates the moving parts, prevents wear and tear, and helps to dissipate heat. Over time, ATF can become contaminated with metal shavings, dirt, and other debris. This can lead to decreased transmission performance and, in severe cases, transmission failure.

It is important to change or flush your ATF on a regular basis to keep your transmission in good working condition. The frequency with which you need to change or flush your ATF will depend on your driving habits and the type of transmission in your car. However, most experts recommend changing or flushing your ATF every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.

Changing Your ATF

Changing your ATF is a relatively simple process that can be done at home with a few basic tools. Here are the steps involved:

1. Gather your materials. You will need:
* New ATF (check your owner’s manual for the correct type and amount)
* A new ATF filter
* A funnel
* A wrench
* A pan to catch the old ATF
2. Locate the ATF drain plug. The ATF drain plug is typically located on the bottom of the transmission pan. It is usually a 17mm bolt.
3. Place the pan under the transmission pan. Make sure that the pan is large enough to catch all of the old ATF.
4. Loosen the drain plug. Use the wrench to loosen the drain plug, but do not remove it completely.
5. Allow the ATF to drain. The ATF will drain out of the transmission pan into the pan below.
6. Remove the drain plug. Once the ATF has stopped draining, remove the drain plug completely.
7. Remove the ATF filter. The ATF filter is located inside the transmission pan. Use the wrench to loosen the filter and remove it.
8. Install the new ATF filter. Place the new ATF filter into the transmission pan and tighten it with the wrench.
9. Replace the drain plug. Thread the drain plug back into the transmission pan and tighten it with the wrench.
10. Add new ATF. Use the funnel to add new ATF to the transmission. Add the amount of ATF specified in your owner’s manual.
11. Check the ATF level. Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes. Then, use the dipstick to check the ATF level. The ATF level should be between the “full” and “add” marks on the dipstick.
12. Road test your car. Once you have added new ATF, take your car for a road test to make sure that the transmission is shifting smoothly.

Flushing Your ATF

Flushing your ATF is a more thorough process than changing your ATF. It involves using a machine to circulate new ATF through the transmission to remove all of the old ATF and debris. Flushing your ATF is typically more expensive than changing your ATF, but it is a good option if your transmission is in need of a deep clean.

Here are the steps involved in flushing your ATF:

1. Locate a transmission flush machine. Transmission flush machines are available at most auto repair shops.
2. Connect the flush machine to your car. The flush machine will be connected to the transmission cooler lines.
3. Start the flush machine. The flush machine will circulate new ATF through the transmission to remove all of the old ATF and debris.
4. Monitor the flush process. The flush machine will typically have a sight glass that allows you to monitor the progress of the flush.
5. Stop the flush machine. Once the flush machine has removed all of the old ATF and debris, stop the machine.
6. Disconnect the flush machine from your car. Once the flush machine has been disconnected, start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes.
7. Check the ATF level. Use the dipstick to check the ATF level. The ATF level should be between the “full” and “add” marks on the dipstick.
8. Road test your car. Once you have checked the ATF level, take your car for a road test to make sure that the transmission is shifting smoothly.

Conclusion

Changing or flushing your ATF is an important part of maintaining your car’s transmission. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can help to keep your transmission in good working condition for many years to come.