Like regular oil changes, transmission service to change the fluid is equally important to maintain a properly operating vehicle and avoid a potentially serious transmission repair. There are two commonly used methods for doing this: A fluid flush and a fluid refill. An explanation of both is helpful to make an intelligent decision as to which method is preferred.
- "Drain and Refill" Method
The 'drain and refill' method involves draining the fluid from the drain plug. If there is no drain plug, then the pan must be removed before refilling with new fluid. In many makes of vehicles, there is also a fluid filter that should be replaced at the same time.
- "Flush" Method
The 'transmission flush' is usually done with a special flushing machine that is connected in series to one of the fluid cooler lines. With the engine running the flushing machine gradually pumps out the old fluid and replaces it with new fluid at the same time.
Which One is Better?
What is the major difference between the two methods? The 'drain and refill' method only allows about 40%-50% of fluid to be changed at once because a large portion of fluid remaining in the torque converter, valve body, and other parts of the transmission cannot be drained. However, using the flush machine to change transmission fluid allows the replacement of approximately 90-95% of the fluid at once.
As to which method is best remains mostly opinion. Using a flush machine is obviously quicker and more efficient and it is successfully used in many auto repair shops. However, many mechanics advise that it is better to repeat a 'drain and refill' method a few times. Some vehicle manufacturers do not recommend using flush machines.
All in all, the flush method, if approved by a car manufacturer, might work well for low-mileage cars, while the 'drain and refill' method is typically safer for high-mileage vehicles. Regardless of which method is utilized, only have a qualified auto technician perform the needed transmission service in order to avoid a serious or major transmission repair in the future.
Need expert advice on transmission repair? Contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Rebel Automotive for more information. We will be pleased to take care of your vehicle and provide you with honest and professional transmission service and other maintenance issues. Our auto repair shop serves vehicle owners in Henderson, NV, Las Vegas, NV, and North Las Vegas, NV.
Like regular oil changes, transmission service to change the fluid is equally important to maintain a properly operating vehicle and avoid a potentially serious transmission repair. There are two commonly used methods for doing this: A fluid flush and a fluid refill. An explanation of both is helpful to make an intelligent decision as to which method is preferred.
- "Drain and Refill" Method
The 'drain and refill' method involves draining the fluid from the drain plug. If there is no drain plug, then the pan must be removed before refilling with new fluid. In many makes of vehicles, there is also a fluid filter that should be replaced at the same time.
- "Flush" Method
The 'transmission flush' is usually done with a special flushing machine that is connected in series to one of the fluid cooler lines. With the engine running the flushing machine gradually pumps out the old fluid and replaces it with new fluid at the same time.
Which One is Better?
What is the major difference between the two methods? The 'drain and refill' method only allows about 40%-50% of fluid to be changed at once because a large portion of fluid remaining in the torque converter, valve body, and other parts of the transmission cannot be drained. However, using the flush machine to change transmission fluid allows the replacement of approximately 90-95% of the fluid at once.
As to which method is best remains mostly opinion. Using a flush machine is obviously quicker and more efficient and it is successfully used in many auto repair shops. However, many mechanics advise that it is better to repeat a 'drain and refill' method a few times. Some vehicle manufacturers do not recommend using flush machines.
All in all, the flush method, if approved by a car manufacturer, might work well for low-mileage cars, while the 'drain and refill' method is typically safer for high-mileage vehicles. Regardless of which method is utilized, only have a qualified auto technician perform the needed transmission service in order to avoid a serious or major transmission repair in the future.
Need expert advice on transmission repair? Contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Rebel Automotive for more information. We will be pleased to take care of your vehicle and provide you with honest and professional transmission service and other maintenance issues. Our auto repair shop serves vehicle owners in Henderson, NV, Las Vegas, NV, and North Las Vegas, NV.
