Cottman Transmission & Total Auto Care in Durham, NC

How to change transmission fluid Durham

 

Changing the transmission fluid is an essential part of vehicle maintenance that helps ensure the longevity and smooth operation of your transmission. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to change transmission fluid, specifically for vehicles in Durham, North Carolina, where you may encounter varying driving conditions.

Tools and Materials Needed

  • Transmission fluid (check your owner’s manual for the correct type)
  • Transmission filter (if applicable)
  • Drain pan
  • Funnel
  • Ratchet and socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Rags or paper towels
  • Jack and jack stands (if necessary)
  • Safety goggles and gloves

Steps to Change Transmission Fluid

  1. Gather Information
  • Consult the Owner’s Manual: Before starting, refer to your owner’s manual for the specific type of transmission fluid required and the recommended change intervals.
  1. Prepare the Vehicle
  • Park on a Level Surface: Ensure your vehicle is parked on a flat surface. Turn off the engine and set the parking brake.
  • Gather Tools: Collect all necessary tools and materials to make the process smoother.
  1. Lift the Vehicle (if necessary)
  • Use a Jack: If your vehicle has low ground clearance, use a jack to lift it. Secure it with jack stands for safety.
  1. Locate the Transmission Pan
  • Find the Pan: Underneath the vehicle, locate the transmission pan. It’s usually a large metal pan that’s rectangular or square and is located near the bottom of the transmission.
  1. Drain the Old Fluid
  • Place Drain Pan: Position the drain pan under the transmission pan.
  • Remove the Drain Plug: If your transmission pan has a drain plug, remove it to allow the fluid to drain. If there is no drain plug, you will need to remove the pan itself.
  • Let It Drain: Allow all the fluid to completely drain out into the pan. This may take several minutes.
  1. Remove the Transmission Pan (if necessary)
  • Unbolt the Pan: If you don’t have a drain plug, remove the bolts holding the transmission pan in place using a ratchet and socket.
  • Carefully Remove the Pan: Once unbolted, gently pull the pan away from the transmission. Be cautious, as there may still be some fluid left inside.
  1. Replace the Filter (if applicable)
  • Remove the Old Filter: If your vehicle has a transmission filter, remove the old filter. It may be held in place by screws or clips.
  • Install the New Filter: Install the new filter, ensuring it is secured properly.
  1. Clean the Pan and Gasket Surface
  • Clean the Pan: Wipe down the inside of the transmission pan to remove any debris or old gasket material.
  • Inspect the Gasket: If the pan has a gasket, inspect it for wear. Replace it if necessary. If there is no gasket, use a gasket maker to ensure a good seal.
  1. Reattach the Transmission Pan
  • Position the Pan: Place the transmission pan back onto the transmission.
  • Bolt It Down: Secure the pan with bolts, using a torque wrench to tighten them to the manufacturer’s specifications (check the owner’s manual for the correct torque settings).
  1. Add New Transmission Fluid
  • Locate the Dipstick Tube: Find the transmission dipstick tube under the hood of the vehicle.
  • Use a Funnel: Insert a funnel into the dipstick tube and pour in the new transmission fluid. Check your owner’s manual for the correct amount to add.
  • Check Fluid Level: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Shift through all the gears to circulate the fluid. After a few minutes, check the fluid level with the dipstick. Add more fluid as necessary.
  1. Check for Leaks
  • Inspect for Leaks: After adding fluid and running the engine, check under the vehicle for any signs of leaking around the pan.
  1. Dispose of Old Fluid Properly
  • Recycle Old Fluid: Take the old transmission fluid to a recycling center or an auto parts store that accepts used oil.

Tips and Considerations

  • Frequency of Change: It’s generally recommended to change transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, but this can vary based on driving conditions. Check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
  • Consult a Professional: If you’re uncomfortable performing this procedure yourself or lack the necessary tools, consider taking your vehicle to a transmission specialist in Durham for service.
  • Regular Maintenance: Regularly check the transmission fluid level and condition to catch potential issues early.

By following these steps, you can successfully change the transmission fluid in your vehicle, helping to maintain its performance and extend its lifespan.

For all your transmission repair and service needs contact the experts at Cottman Transmission in Durham, NC today.  To schedule your appointment visit us https://www.durhamtransmission.com/appointment/

Cottman Transmission Total Auto Care gets you back on the road faster, visit us at https://durhamtransmission.com/ or check us out on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/CottmanofDurham

For fastest response:

Call your Durham transmission repair center at (919) 372-0133 today

How to change transmission fluid Durham

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