What is a Transmission Flush
A transmission flush is the process of all the old fluid from your vehicles automatic transmission and replacing it with new fresh ATF
Why flush your automatic transmission?
Much like your engine oil, transmission fluid breaks down over time, losing viscosity and the ability to properly lubricate the transmission. This can lead to harder shifting, transmission slippage, and poor fuel economy
How often should a transmission be flushed?
This really varies on your personal driving style but most garages recommend every 3 years or 30,000 miles
Can a transmission be flushed at home?
No. While a simple drain and fill can be performed at home the flush procedure must be performed at a repair shop. the flush process requires special equipment and chemicals that are cost prohibitive for the home mechanic
Does the transmission filter still need to be replaced?
No. while the old drain and fill procedure requires replacing the filter to remove sludge. the flush process cleans the filter as well as the rest of the transmission
Where can I get my transmission flushed?
Many dealers and independent repair facilities perform this service, and mat recommend it when you go for an oil change.always be sure to ask for a sample of your old fluid before authorizing the work, a trust worthy mechanic will be more than happy to show you, some shops may escort you into the service bay so that you may observe the process. If they refuse to show you a sample and/or let you observe the process take your vehicle somewhere else
How is the flush performed?
In order to flush your transmission the mechanic will separate one of the transmission cooling lines at the easiest point of access and hook the machine to the line and the point where the line was unhooked from the vehicle. For this explanation we will say it was unhooked at the radiator. After hooking the machine to the transmission line and the radiator (in-line) a Cleaning agent in added to the transmission through the dip stick tube, the vehicle is started and allowed to warm up as the cleaner circulates through all the fluid passages. The machine is then allowed to process the old fluid and replace it with new. this process can take from 10 - 20 minutes at which time the vehicle is shut off and the machine is unhooked. After the transmission line is reattached to the radiator the fluid level is checked and topped off if needed some garages also put an additive in at this time to help improve and smooth shifting
