Changing the oil in an automatic transmission - how to do it yourself?

An automatic transmission is an extremely complex system, and it is very costly to replace it. That is why many car owners with such a solution prefer to play it safe in order to avoid all sorts of problems. One of the most important actions in this matter is changing the oil in the automatic transmission.. This ensures the durability and reliability of the system. Can you do it yourself? When should it be done? How to change the oil in an automatic transmission? Look at yourself!

Changing the oil in an automatic transmission - why is it necessary?

Changing the oil in the automatic transmission, as well as in the engine, is mandatory. During the operation of these systems, the liquid itself is consumed. Consequences of this:

• deterioration of lubricating properties;
• degradation of antiwear additives;
• decrease in fluid viscosity;
• an increase in acids. 

Untimely oil change in automatic transmission will lead to:

• significantly accelerated wear of all mechanisms of this system;
• shut-off valves;
• clogging of channels in the hydraulic control system. 

Then find out how to change the oil in an automatic transmission.

How to change the oil in an automatic transmission - choose the right fluid

Before you check out how to change automatic transmission oil, you should focus on choosing the right product. The fluid must meet the manufacturer's specifications. In the case of the described system, most often you will have to rely on ATF oil with specific viscosity parameters.

We must not forget that automatic transmission oil changes differ between models. Therefore, it is extremely important to choose the right fluid for your car. The wrong choice of agent will result in an incorrect response, which can result in the destruction of the transmission itself. You will find all the necessary information on how to change the oil in an automatic transmission in the car manual.

Automatic transmission oil change - what you need to know?

Can I change the oil in an automatic transmission myself? The answer is yes, but this activity will require you to have some knowledge in the field of mechanics.

If the system in your car has a classic drain plug, then the operation will not be too complicated. In these cases, changing the oil in the automatic transmission will be similar to the same procedure in other gearboxes. 

However, we must not forget that in some cars the process will be somewhat more complicated. Some cars are built in such a way that it will be possible to change the oil in the automatic transmission only halfway. What to do with the rest of the liquid? It can only be removed by suction or pouring after the entire gearbox has been dismantled.

Oil change - automatic transmission and filter

In response to the question of how to change the oil in an automatic transmission step by step, the filter of this system should also be mentioned. In some cases, it will also need to be replaced. Unfortunately, this operation sometimes requires disassembly of the entire transmission. This is because some manufacturers assume that their component will last the lifetime of the vehicle. The reality, however, is quite different and the oil filter should also be replaced from time to time. Otherwise, the transmission may not operate properly, resulting in serious and costly problems. You already know the theoretical foundations. Check now how to change automatic transmission oil.

Oil change in automatic transmission - stages of work

What steps need to be taken to change the oil in the automatic transmission? The work steps are as follows:

1. Start by draining the fluid through the drain hole, and only then remove the oil pan. In some models, after removing this element, it will be possible to get to the filter.
2. The next step is to thoroughly clean the contact between the oil pan and the gasket. 
3. Once you've done that, it's worth replacing the old gasket with a new one. As a result, automatic transmission oil changes will be more efficient. 
4. Collect all this and fill the tank with the appropriate liquid. 
5. Start the engine and check the oil level. Older models are equipped with a special dipstick, and slightly newer cars will allow you to check the amount of fluid using sensors. 

How often do you need to change the oil in the automatic transmission?

You already know how to change the oil in an automatic transmission. However, be aware that all your work will be in vain if you do not adhere to the recommended replacement period. Gears of this type are much more susceptible to damage than their manual counterparts. Therefore, changing the oil is an activity that will allow you to take care of this system. 

First and subsequent oil changes

The first time the oil should be changed after about 100 thousand kilometers. After that, you need to repeat this action approximately every 40 thousand kilometers. Also, we must not forget that driving over rough terrain or towing a trailer requires a lot of effort from the transmission itself. That is why in such cases the fluid should be changed every 25 kilometers. 

As you already know, you can change the oil yourself. However, you don't have to. Ask a mechanic how much it costs to change the oil in an automatic transmission.

Oil change in automatic transmission in the workshop - cost

Despite the fact that you know how to change the oil in an automatic transmission, it is not at all necessary to decide to do it yourself. The alternative is an experienced mechanic. Thanks to him, you will be sure that the whole process was carried out correctly and the oil change in the automatic transmission brought the expected effect.

The cost of such a service ranges from 300 to 60 euros. The specific price of changing the oil in an automatic transmission in a workshop depends on the model of your car and the reputation of the workshop itself.

Changing the oil in an automatic transmission is an extremely important event. This will allow you to use your car without problems for many years. Therefore, if you want to avoid serious problems with your vehicle, remember about prevention and system maintenance.