If your car struggles with gear shifting and leaks a dark red liquid, your transmission fluid needs to be changed.
But remember, transmission fluid replacement costs may vary for manual and automatic cars.
So, let’s break down the potential costs of replacing the old transmission fluid. We’ll also share tips on buying and maintaining new fluid to keep your transmission system running smoothly.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a Transmission Fluid Replacement Cost?
- Is It Worth Replacing the Transmission Fluid?
- Signs You Need a Transmission Fluid Change
- How Long Does Transmission Fluid Last?
- How to Choose the Right Transmission Fluid for Your Car
- Is It Easy to Perform a Transmission Fluid Replacement?
- Should You Get a Fluid Flush Instead of a Fluid Exchange?
- How to Prolong the Use of Transmission Fluid in Your Car
How Much Does a Transmission Fluid Replacement Cost?
Here’s what you’ll likely pay for changing the transmission fluid:
A. Range
The average cost of replacing old fluid depends on your vehicle’s transmission system — manual, automatic, or continuously variable transmission (CVT). Let’s look at the price range for each.
1. Manual transmission fluid (MTF) replacement can cost $120 to $230. This includes:
- Parts cost: $50 to $60
- Labor cost: $70 to $170
2. Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) replacement ranges between $300 to $510 and covers:
- Parts cost: $150 to $280
- Labor cost: $150 to $230
3. Continuously variable transmission fluid (CVT) replacement may cost around $340 to $370.
- Parts cost: approximately $200
- Labor cost: $140 to $170
Note: If your mechanic notices discolored liquid or thick sludge, they’ll suggest a transmission flush instead of a fluid replacement. Depending on your vehicle’s size, this service will likely cost around $150 to $400.
B. Factors Affecting Cost
Some other factors that influence your expenses include:
- Vehicle make and model: Automatic transmission cars typically use specially formulated synthetic fluids. Moreover, luxury vehicles like McLaren require high-end transmission fluids for better performance.
- Fluid type: Based on your transmission system, you can purchase manual, automatic, or continuously variable transmission (CVT) fluid. You’ll also find full-synthetic and semi-synthetic variants of these liquids. Amongst these, ATF and CVT variants are costlier.
- Local service plans: Many car repair shops offer packages that include fluid exchange and a free inspection of transmission parts like the hoses and gaskets. Depending on your budget and car’s requirements, you can choose a suitable package.
- Extra repairs: Old transmission fluid can clog the filter in automatic cars. To replace the fluid and transmission filter together, you’ll have to pay around $430 to $510.
Is It Worth Replacing the Transmission Fluid?
Certainly!
Transmission fluid lubricates and cools system parts, helping them last longer. In automatic systems, this fluid creates hydraulic pressure to shift gears smoothly.
If the fluid level reduces, the transmission won’t work, and you’ll experience gear-shifting issues. Once it runs out completely, the transmission system parts will overheat and become damaged.
Eventually, you’ll witness a complete transmission failure, requiring expensive repairs. To avoid extensive damage, replace the fluid when you notice the red flags.
Signs You Need a Transmission Fluid Change
If your car is running on low or dirty transmission fluid, you’ll notice:
- A lit Check Engine Light
- A puddle of dark red fluid pooling under the car near the transmission area
- Burning smell from the transmission
- Grinding or knocking noises
- Gear shifting issues
- Slipping gears
- Slow acceleration
- The car surges and lunges unexpectedly
How Long Does Transmission Fluid Last?
Your car’s transmission fluid lasts about 30,000 to 60,000 miles or 2 to 5 years.
However, the fluid can deteriorate faster if you:
- Drive frequently in the city: Stop-and-go driving in the city traffic can put pressure on the transmission, aging the fluid.
- Overload the car: Carrying heavy loads can strain the transmission, wearing out the fluid quickly.
How to Choose the Right Transmission Fluid for Your Car
Here are some tips to help you with your purchase:
- Check the transmission type: Buy a fluid that suits your transmission type. For instance, manual cars need a thicker fluid to lubricate and cool the system. So, you shouldn’t add a thin ATF to a manual transmission car.
- Refer to the owner’s manual: Your car’s manual will recommend a fluid that works best for your vehicle, depending on its size and design.
- Research fluid brands and their quality: Several brands offer high-quality transmission fluid variants. By researching and comparing options, you can choose the best fluid for your car.
- Consider the weather conditions: Extreme hot or cold weather can adversely affect your vehicle’s transmission. So, ensure the fluid you purchase can withstand your local climate.
Is It Easy to Perform a Transmission Fluid Replacement?
Not at all!
Replacing the fluid requires raising the vehicle and handling complex transmission system components underneath it. That’s why you should always let an auto repair mechanic perform the transmission fluid exchange.
But if you’re still curious, here’s a general know-how:
- Drive the car for 5 to 10 minutes to warm up the fluid.
- Switch off the engine and park the vehicle.
- Raise the car using jack stands and find the transmission pan.
- Remove the drain plug or unscrew the pan’s bolts to collect the fluid in a container.
- Inspect the transmission filter (in case of automatic transmission) and replace it if it’s clogged.
- Detach and replace the transmission pan’s gasket.
- Reinstall the pan and tighten the new gasket’s bolts as per the manufacturer’s recommendation.
- Refill the system with new fluid.
- Start the engine to circulate the fluid and shift gears into drive, reverse, and park mode.
- Check the fluid level with the dipstick and refill if needed.
Should You Get a Fluid Flush Instead of a Fluid Exchange?
It depends.
A fluid flush is needed when your transmission fluid is discolored or filled with metal shavings. During the service, the mechanic will drain 100% of your old fluid from the system using a flushing machine. Once the system is clean, they’ll use the same machine to add fresh fluid.
However, if the fluid is mildly contaminated or low in level, they’ll replace it. The replacement involves switching 70% of the liquid with fresh fluid and inspecting the filter.
Typically, your mechanic should decide whether you need a transmission fluid flush or replacement.
How to Prolong the Use of Transmission Fluid in Your Car
To maintain your car’s transmission fluid, follow these tips:
- Check your transmission fluid level once a month or at every oil change.
- Get a transmission flush once a year to remove the debris and grime.
- Use the correct fluid recommended by your owner’s manual, as incompatible liquid damages the system.
Transmission Fluid Exchange Made Easy with AutoNation Mobile Service
Transmission fluid ensures smooth driving by keeping transmission components well-lubricated. But, if the fluid is contaminated, you’ll need a transmission fluid exchange immediately.
Can’t drive to the garage?
Call expert mechanics from AutoNation Mobile Service for help.
We’re a mobile car repair solution available seven days a week. We offer upfront pricing and a 12-month | 12,000-mile warranty on every transmission maintenance service.
Contact us for a transmission fluid replacement right from your driveway.