Transmission fluid is used to lubricate the internal components of the transmissions. It also helps to maintain fluid pressure, cooling and preventing rust and oxidation. Just like all other fluids, the transmission fluid does eventually breaks down.

It is estimated around 90% of all transmission failures are due to excessive heat, but what exactly causes transmission overheating? It is often related to the transmission fluid itself such as low, dirty, burnt, or contaminated fluid.

Each manufacturer has different service intervals for their transmission fluid. It is best to check with your vehicle’s owners manual to see when the service is required, and what type of fluid is required. All transmission fluids are not the same. If the wrong fluid is used, it could lead to total transmission failure (very costly repairs). Generally, most vehicle manufacturers recommend to change the transmission fluid every 60,000 – 100,000 km.

Changing a car’s transmission fluid can take roughly 1 – 1.5 hours to complete.