Replace the old spark plugs? Check.
Swap out the dirty air filter? Done.
Change the transmission fluid? What?
This is one of those tasks that must never be overlooked. Luckily, it’s a cheap process, and if you have a basic understanding of mechanics, you can perform it in your own house.
What does it cost to alter transmission fluid? It depends on where you take it. At a mechanics shop or dealer, the price will likely range between $80 to $250.
However, if you’re willing and able to do it yourself, it should fall between $50-$100.
Thankfully, in this detailed guide, I will cover everything you need to know about transmission fluid, including what it is, how often it needs to be changed, and what you can expect to spend for the service.
Finally, I will provide a step-by-step guide on changing your transmission fluid at home.
Let us commence!
Table of ContentsShow
What Is Transmission Fluid, And How Often Does It Need To Be Changed?
Transmission fluid is analogous to engine oil in that it provides lubrication for the transmission – but it also acts as a hydraulic fluid.
It helps maintain the transmission at a safe operating temp, facilitates gear shifts, and lubricates the moving parts.
Most transmission fluids contain:
- Lubricants
- Corrosion inhibitors
- Detergents
- Dispersants
- Surfactants
- Anti-wear additives
- Viscosity improvers/modifiers
- Seal swell additives
- Anti-foam additives
- Anti-oxidation compounds
- Cold flow improvers
- High-temperature thickeners
- Gasket conditioners
- Petroleum dye
When you are talking about a part that costs between $1,500-$3,500 to replace, does it really make sense to skip changing the one thing that keeps it working? Especially when the list of beneficial ingredients is as long as the one above.
Most transmission fluids last between 30,000-60,000 miles, though some claim to last as long as 150,000 miles. The idea is not to see how long yours can last.
It is to keep it as streamlined as possible to protect the transmission.
What are the signs that you need new transmission fluid? A few of the most prevalent signs include:
- Gear slipping
- Inability to shift
- Irregular shifts
- Overheated transmission
- Delayed gear shifts
Now that you know how crucial transmission fluid is and how often it needs to be changed. Let us now look at how much you might expect to spend on the service.
How Much Does Changing Transmission Fluid Cost?
The first element influencing the cost is where you have it done – at a dealer or mechanic/service center. The next contributor is the make and model of your car. This determines the kind of transmission fluid you need and how much.
Most transmission fluids range from about $8-$20 per quart, and most cars take between 5-15 quarts ($40-$300).
When you change your transmission fluid, you should also replace the filter and sometimes the pan gasket. Filters range between $15-$30, and pan gaskets between $75-$150.
Add these all together, and you get a total cost of between $130-$480, with the average price ranging from $80 to $250.
If you have the service performed at a mechanics shop or service center, expect it to be towards the lower end. Otherwise, be prepared to spend more at a dealer.
If you’re willing to get your hands dirty, you can always change your transmission fluid for between $50-$100.
Not sure how?
Great news, we will cover that below.
How To Change Your Transmission Fluid At Home
Step #1: Jack The Front Of The Car Up
Start by sliding a jack under the front of your car and positioning it so that it sits under the frame. Next, place a jack stand in place to ensure it’s stable.
Step #2: Drain The Transmission Fluid Into A Drain Pan
Locate the bottom of the transmission. Next to it should be the drain bolt, which you will loosen using a hexagonal head.
You may want to wear some rubber gloves because, once it’s loose, it will start pouring out. Finish by removing the bolt by hand.
Step #3: Remove The Pan And Change The Filter
If your vehicle is equipped with a filter, you’ll have to swap it with a fresh one.
You will see several bolts around the pan. Remove them to free it so you can change the filter and return the pan to its original position.
Step #4: Tighten The Drain Bolt And Refill
Grab your hex head and fasten the drain bolt back in position. Then, you will need to determine how much fluid to add back in.
You can do this by taking the drain pan (that is now full of dirty transmission fluid) and pouring it into empty quart bottles. The number you need is how much to add back in.
The final step is to locate the transmission fluid cap and pour the new fluid in.
If you prefer visual instructions, watch this video guide.
Why Take The Risk? Instead, Maintain Your Transmission Fluid
As we mentioned earlier, the expense to replace a transmission usually ranges from $1,500 to around $3,500.
Which would you rather spend your money on, a fresh transmission or an $80-$250 fluid change every 30,000-60,000 miles?
We would certainly choose the latter.
