Question:
I was hoping you could give me some guidance. My vehicle is currently at 125k miles and never had a transmission fluid flush or exchange. I went to the dealership to have this repair done at 100k miles but was told that since I hadn’t done the flush sooner, it was best to not do it now to avoid causing a problem. I was given different advice from my local mechanic and read various opinions online. I was hoping for the input of a reputable transmission company. Would you recommend a first time transmission flush on a 2016 Kia Sedona minivan?

Thank you!

Answer:
Short answer is as long as the trans is working correctly there is very little evidence to suggest that this would cause a failure. In fact it should make the transmission last longer based on the fact that new fluid will have better hydraulic, cooling and lubricating properties.

Not to mention all of these fluids have very specific friction modifiers. That can and will overtime begin to fade as moisture accumulates in the fluid. You may ask how does moisture get in my transmission fluid? The answer is simple but often overlooked. When the transmission fluid heats up it expands. This forces air out of the atmospheric vent. Then the fluid cools it contracts drawing air back into the transmission. This air has a lot of humidity in it especially in the summertime. 80-90% humidity

This humidity (moist air) then condenses releasing its moisture (water) into our transmission fluid.

Sometimes the breakdown of the friction modifier can cause a shudder when the torque converter lock up clutch is applied, or possibly at a shift transition from one gear to the next. Most commonly see around 40-50 MPH at light throttle.

My best advice is to have the transmission checked and evaluated prior to the service. This will insure you do not waste money if it is not going to help you.

At Cottman this check is called the Transcheck21Plus
For more details Give us a call at
919-471-2506

Regards
Cottman Transmission of Durham
General Manager
Jody Preston