Can Changing your Transmission Fluid Cause Damage?
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- Опубликовано: 27 май 2024
- Changing your automatic transmission fluid can leave you with many questions like: how do you check your transmission fluid, when should you change transmission fluid, how often should you change it, should you do a fluid flush, and what about sealed transmissions? I cover these questions and many more so you can get your transmission questions answered. Plus I put the myths to rest once and for all!
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Due to factors beyond the control of ChrisFix, I cannot guarantee against improper use or unauthorized modifications of this information. ChrisFix assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Use this information at your own risk. ChrisFix recommends safe practices when working on vehicles and or with tools seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of ChrisFix, no information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or from the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not ChrisFix. 
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I am a 20 year veteran on car maintenance and repair and I am really impressed with the content and correctness of his information. Shout out to knowing your stuff and giving out good info.
Thanks a lot
@@chrisfix I clicked on this video SPECIFICALLY to make sure you explained how flushing can cause loss of function in cases with no prior transmission service. You nailed it. Awesome job.
@@ItsDrillz So maybe you can answer a question from me if you know things about transmission.
I thought my car shifted abit weird (I have a sealed transmission) so when I had it at my usual shop for service they told me I should get it flushed and they refered me to another shop that had a machine for it, so I did.
At the time my car had done about 180200 miles(I know quite abit) and serviced according to the book, and since it is a sealed transmission I don't know if the previous owner had ever changed fluid on it before.
Anyway to the problem: Right after they flushed the transmission the car shifted kind of weird when it was warm, say if you drive 10-20 miles highway and then go into city traffic it shifts hard and when accelerating on highway it is like it shifts 1,5 times per shift if that makes sense, first a shift and then another small jump that changes like 200rpm. After like 100 miles of driving it stopped doing that and it shifted super smooth and it was great, but now after another 8000 miles it has started again. When the car is cold it shifts nice and crisp but still smooth.
Could it help to change oil again or is it just done and ready for the scrap? Or maybe there is something else one could do? Could they have put the wrong kind of fluid in? Thanks for answers :)
@@guseks8413 I don't think there is a way to for me to know the full extent of the condition of the transmission over the internet. As you stated, we also cannot know the previous owner's treatment of it either.
This is where I wrote a big long explanation with the possible causes of the issue but I decided instead to just sum it up with recommending you take it back to the shop that did the flush and have them diagnose it. It is much too complicated for me to make a recommendation of a fix without being able to see or test the car.
If you'd like the full explanation, reply to this comment and I'd be happy to write it for you but the short answer is to take it to the place that's had the car because they would know more about your car or at least be able to test it and verify the issue.
I worked mainly with GM products in the past and don't recommend flushes on cars over 120,000 miles unless they are already losing function.
It is too much of a liability to flush it and end up with a slipping transmission.
@@ItsDrillz Yeah obviously you're right, why am I bothering someone in the YT comments. Ill take it back to a shop that can run the diagnostics. Thanks for taking the time to respond. Have a good one!
I've been a mechanic for 27,000 years and Chris is speaking all the truth.
Hi, I recently purchased honda accord 2009. Transmission works great, but the previous owner (only 1 since 2009) has never changed it, 200k miles on the car. Is it reasonable to change or flush, or just leave it be (I was told by a mechanic that transmission might get worse if I change it at this point) please give an advise. Thank you!
If it has never been changed, I would just leave it alone
Your about 5 years late to this video buddy
@@nikitaglushkov7591: Definitely change it, I have a 2006 Honda with 190k miles and the owner never changed it, black fluid with metal shavings on the magnet plug. Changing the fluid made it start shifting smoothly
My Mazda 3 2014 has 74k miles on it. I’m assuming the previous owner never changed the atf. Would it be ok if I did so myself?
I may only be 26 but I’ve been a mechanic for 52 years, and Chris has all the good info.
You have one like for every year you've been a mechanic, so I won't spoil it.
😂
Huh?
You are 26 but you have been a mechanic for 52 years?
Jajajajajja
I have read/ watched many recommendations about trans fluid change. This is absolutely the best I have seen. Only been working on vehicles since 1958
It seems his main audience is old people who think they know what they know, but actually suck.
@@twerktospec We are all dumber because of that comment.
"MAIN audience"??? Is there a secondary audience?
"old people who think they know what they know" - How can one NOT think they know, what they know???
Better than young people that are A-holes.
OLD people might "actually suck" - But young people like to toss a salad.
@@twerktospec 👍👍👍
I held the flashlight while my dad yelled at me, and I can confirm that all this information is absolutely correct 👍🏻
lol
🤗 used to hold it for husband
You shine the light where dad is working, not where you are looking!!!!
😅 my 11yr old daughter had that job 10 p.m as I swore at the rear drum brake spring lol
Bahaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
Been working on my own vehicles for 45 years, and Chris is putting out some good stuff here. Listen and learn. Wish we had the internet back in the 70's LOL. Thanks Chris.
Thanks a lot Jack!
@@chrisfix EPIK
@fung whyou lol
@fung whyou ? bad joke... dont think his stuff isnt fixed.. im sure he would have given up long ago if that were the case... kids these days..
It's because you didn't have internet in the 70s your life was simple and pleasant. Now the internet has made everyone so smart that everyone gets offended very easily. 70s 80s 90s are the golden years.
I've said it before and I'll say it again. Guys like Chris should be up for awards. Likes of Chris and a few others (not that many, really) who fully know their stuff. Should be recognized for their generosity to share skills and knowledge. My own car, a 61 Connie is in great shape largely because I've followed Chris from the start. Chris is no bs, no antics, no quirky shit, just show's "clearly" how to keep Connie in top shape. Max thanks dude.
I rarely leave comments....0001% of the time. This is one of the best tutorials I've seen. Literally answered every question I had on this topic before I proceeded.
Out of my 19 years of life I’ve been a mechanic for 50 of those years and I can guarantee Chris is correct 👍🏻
Jajajajaj
19- 50
I had to read this twice
What????
@@xslayer14 it was a joke! Irony.
I've been a mechanic for 15 of my last 17 reincarnations and let me just tell you something, based on centuries of experience, Chris here is telling nothing but the truth! I just wish we had access to this information back in the middle ages!
Hey quick question. I drive a manual transmission, I’ll be checking the fluid when I get back home. But am I supposed to be hearing the gears shift? Like when I go from first to second and so I on I can clearly hear the gears changing. Sounds like a dumb question and maybe is, I’ve just never noticed it before but it could’ve been doing it the entire time. Just wanted to know if I should get something checked out. I don’t have any slippage or jolts when going into a gear I just feel like I shouldn’t be hearing it like that but maybe I should. Any thoughts would help. Thanks
@@Ricehatasian non-expert here: I always "heard" when I manually shifted in my old Saturn, but it was normal sounding and not grindy or forced
@@bowlbboy thanks for the reply Brandon, ngl didn’t think anyone would reply. Yea it’s nothing forced or grindy, so if you’ve had the same thing I’m just gonna go with it and pray it’s nothing serious lol
🤣 ROFLMAO
Hey mechanic friend. I have a issue but cant find a answer yet. Ok fluid is kinda old, brown pink like middle he showed. So anyway if car is cold it will not shift. Once warmed up shifts perfect. All winter in far north 0 issues. Once spring i went out on cooler morning and it would not move. A few days later hot out and it worked perfect. I found if cold outside and i let it run 15 min it shifts perfect. Maybe a experienced mechanic may have advice to the issue.
I changed my transmission oil for the first time in 440000 miles. Thanks to you video. I was expecting my transmission to give up. 2014 Toyota Camry.
44,000 or 440,000???
I've got a 2000 Sienna with 265k that I'm about to change
2006 scion tc 255k, running like a champ.
@@bgood213It’s a camry… probably 440k lol. It’s just breaking in.
Are you serious?
I’m surprised to see Chris is so dedicated to his older videos, one day old comments getting likes from him. Chris, you seem like a genuinely great guy.
I try my best. I answer 4hrs of comments every day!
I work in the service industry and I would love to show my customers this video. For some reason people don’t believe that there is fluid in their transmission and that it needs to be serviced at specific intervals, and when I tell them it’s time, they just think I’m trying to rip them off. This video is very accurate and breaks down pretty much everything you need to know. Great job and great video.
A lot of them don't want to pay the cost for it to.
That’s because there are to many mechanics that do rip people off on a regular basis by selling them services they don’t need. I know, I’ve experienced it first hand.
Too many rippoffs out there.
@@ronb9901 same here. I've seen documentaries of it. Currentky work at a preventative maintaining shop and my own coworkers admitted to me that they sell people services they don't actually need. Can't blame people for not taking people serious. I try to teach customers about their vehicle so they can learn and know for themselves and get ripped off less often.
@@ronb9901 yeah, ruins it for the real mechanics
Next time I'll just share your link with customers. I get tired of explaining this to just about every other customer.
Great job sir
Thank you so much. I used to do my own engine oil and filter change. Now as a senior citizen woman, I am not sure if I can do this transmission fluid flush, but I certainly appreciate all the helpful information presented so simply that I can even understand it. Now to find a mechanic I can trust for this service. This is the hardest part.
I used my friends mechanic and he is the only other person i trust to work on my car besides myself. Had a burnt out washer fluid pump when i bought my first car and wanted to get it fixed and the Driver side wiper arm bearing wore out. His computer said it would be 1.5 hours of labour but he said that's not right it will be no where near 1.5 hours to do both. took him less that 45 mins and only charged me for less than a hours labour. Saved me $80. He has not seen my Civic yet but i might get him to change the brakes soon.
I usually do all the work for my family. Maybe there's someone you can ask.
Best way to find a good, trustworthy, and honest mechanic is by word of mouth. If you have a friend or someone you know who can vouch for them, that's usually a really good start. Also look at Google or Yelp reviews. Don't let 1 star reviews turn you completely off, though. Sometimes people who don't know anything about cars will complain about prices, or they went in for one service and declined another service the mechanic told them they really needed, but they declined, and then they broke down, and then they blamed the mechanic who tried to warn them. My rule of thumb is to weigh the number of 5 star reviews against the 1 stars. But referrals plus these reviews should land you at a really reliable and honest place more often than not.
Man! You leave no stone unturned! You cover every question anybody could have.👍👍👍
His engine is cleaner than my car's interior.
4Stanzas cleaner than the food McDonald’s serves
C4 Corvette engine bays are really easy to keep clean. And they look awesome with the hood up and exposed.
I wish I was as clean 😔
@Sean Steele lol cheers, good sir!
Lol for real
So conclusion: Always keep good maintenance of your fluid, never leave your fluid unattended.
Pretty much!
A 7 years old video, ans still new and useful! Unfortunately not so many people spreads these kinds of content/knowledge. Thank you very much! Regards from Brazil.
I've been a mechanic for about 40 years and I am very impressed with the way you explained the process and handled the myths. Great job!
If you’ve been a mechanic for 40 years you’ve seen all kinds d apc systems’ new Mazdas sky active engines say n book it’s a “life time” auto Tran fluid doesn’t even have a dip stick’ book says most Mazdas last 200k miles
Do u by that …? Or should u change a/T fluid at like 100k?
@@joshymcdaniel9233 - That is a ' Marketing Gimmick ': change the transmission fluid and filter, every one hundred thousand kilometres. Note, I have mentioned a filter change, as well. All The Best!🙂 Roland Singh, Canada 🇨🇦
@@rolandsingh So, if Mercedes states a check at 30,000 km and if it is OK, then at the latest the replacement with flushing including the filter at 60,000 km. If the car was driven in a sporty way, or with a trailer, in the field, shorten the replacement by half a km. Is Mercedes lying? If yes, explain the reason.
@@joshymcdaniel9233 There is a simple answer to that. If the manufacturer claims that the filling in the automatic transmission is for life, you do not need to change the oil. The transmission should last 150,000 km = that's the guarantee of new Mazda cars. 6 years or 150,000 km. This means that the lifetime of the Mazda is 150,000 km. If the transmission dies at 160,000 km, everything is OK = it's only your problem.
If you plan to keep the car longer, you must service it accordingly. My Mercedes had 1,603,xxx km when it was taken out of service due to massive body corrosion. The engine has been in the home tractor for 6 years and I gave the automatic transmission to a friend because his had died.
That dipstick has more information than the car's manual! Cars with life-time fluids mean that the car makers want you to buy new one asap!
Yes, "life-time" means "warranty period"
Or maybe, just maybe it's designed for the lifespan 9f the rest of the Trans. And that when the oil is old, everything else is too and its time for a rebuild.
@@Yaboidavey How naive
The detail on the dipstick really impressed me too.
@@inspectahgex1910 He's never had a transmission fall out on him before.. Make a wise man out of ya
I learned all of these things piecemeal across a number of different forums in the early 2010s. My 1989 Cadillac Brougham was having noisy shifts and I decided to keep half the fluid in the drain pan and replace the other half. Considering I didn’t flush the cooler or the torque converter, I probably bought it another year… which is exactly how long I kept driving it.
Wish this video existed back then, because 20 year old Martin would’ve been thrilled to have all this info in one place! Great work!
As a mechanic who had to ensure Noah's Ark was fit for seaworthiness I can confirm after more than 4,000 years Chris knows what he is talking about.
😂😂
Thanks, my daughter now at 28 finally understands what I've been trying to explain about her Chevy Cruz for quite awhile.You should really consider teaching, if you aren't doing it already.
he's teaching right now!
+AirSoftMaverick3232 exactly
Christo Benno yes. My wife' chevy Cruze model 2010 manufactured in Korea by former Daewoo company is the version that is sold her in Egypt (Africa). All the cruze models 2009 & 2010 had a problem in the AT gearbox and all thos gears had failed and changed by the retailer at our expenses (unless you raise your voice and then you may get 50-75% discount)!!. It is a shame since the gear fails after 30000-50000 km and a brand new car will need to change the transmission completely (which I did) after only 3-4 years of modest service. Anyway we were told by the retailer that same problem may occur again in the newly replaced transmission and that there is always the same risk of failure transmission just after the oil change. So, yes sometimes just doing the normal timed oil change will bust you transmission, ask 2009 k 2010 Korean made chevy Cruze owners
Paul H Driving my second Toyota now will never have anything else.
Hey man, you dont have to explain this much. Just grab the keys, go to repair service and change oil. That's all.
Jaguar already knows it's going to break, so why bother with a dipstick.
That jag was made by ford......fix or repair daily. Ford.
Same with MINI and their Coopers. I had one, but the transmission broke...
Manufacturers put sealed transmissions in because they want it to wear out so u can buy a new car
@@codybarrett4672 Mini vehicles are made by bmw. There's your problem
That Jag is a Ford.
Built on a Ford chassis and coupled to a Ford motor
I have service my own vehicles for over 40 years and knew all of what you went over in the video, but this is the first video I have found that puts it all in one place. Great video!
I think we will be the same age, actually young :)... you will be a few years older - 40 years even though I bought 1 car when I was 14 (my parents almost had a stroke) :) so I miss a few years.
That's why I'm surprised that I don't share your enthusiasm.
Almost 2023 and you are always coming in clutch with these videos, great work man!
What is there to "dislike" in this video? Are there "people" who just travel from video to video and hit the "thumbs down" icon for their own amusement? Uggghhhh. Another great demonstration video packed with useful information! Kudos, Chris.
To answer your questions, unfortunately, I think there are. Some people like to F with others for "fun". Sad.
Gordon Warlow They are sad little people with no lives...
What does it matter? Likes or dislikes both equally give credit to the owner of the video. So he gets paid no matter if it is a like or a dislike.
Gordon Warlow idiots hate the TRUTH
"What is there to "dislike" in this video?" ==> Let me count the ways!
A. Fer-ners!
B. Commies!
C. Pinkos!
D. Queers!
E. Socialists!
F. Knowledge to destroy the capitalist fortunes of profit-seeking transmission repair shops!
Finally, someone that knows what the hell they are talking about.
Well i need this information
“Their” -2019
@@howaboutno4586 They're*
They're* their they're there, please know the difference and when to use them.
they are
Couldn't believe how young you sound and how correct you are! Good on you, it's about time someone knows whats what!
This is something I let go a little bit longer than the manual recommends. 😊 Chris’s videos prompted me to perform this maintenance on my cars.
I don’t need to change or flush my transmission fluid, my car leaks it out, I add more
Bryan Chavez lol May we recommend a new gasket and filter while you’re at it?
Haha I'm in the same situation. It's a blessing in disguise till I can afford the parts to do a complete rebuild. Lol
Maybe because the plug needs to be replaced, is loose or it's too tight!!
PJ 73 im in the same situation but with oil lol only leaks at certain points so hey free oil changes ig🤦🏻♂️😂
My last two Hondas it was leaks on both engine and transmission. I only remember a vtec filter, oil cover and spark plug hole, and just tran fluid everywhere.
I have worked in a transmission shop for 30 years. if you service your transmission every 12 to 15 thousand miles with a simple pan drop service it should last indefinite. Transmissions rely very strongly on the viscosity of the fluid, and when it gets old and wears out is when you have problems. as for flushing cars that have not had regular maintenance. ATF is the highest detergent fluid there is at 180 degrees. It tends to break years of sediment that has trapped behind the clutches, behind the apply pistons, and in the crevices of the valve bodies loose all at once. this is why people say that a flesh is not a good idea. if you had regular maintenance on your vehicle you won't need a flush. when the flush machines came out we bought one. I've seen cars drive in the shop. get a full system flush. and then not want to move back out. the new fluid broke all the debris loose that fast. our $7,000 machine now sets in the corner collecting dust. chrisfix gave the right advice when he said regular maintenance. I've always recommended that you change it once a year right before your busy time. just the simple pan drop service and change the filter. that will keep your viscosity of the fluid up to good level.
When it comes to transmissions, whether automatic or manual, only use the fluid / lubricant that it calls for in your owner's manual.
Good points! I do a drain/refill every time I change my engine oil (about 10k with the synthetic) on my Honda. There's also an in-line filter that is easy to change, but hard to get to because of the all the objects in the way. I have heard too many horror stories about Honda autos so do not want to be a victim when it can be avoided cheaply.
I'm just happy to know there's someone in the world who changes their ATF at 12k miles. If I do mine at 75k I feel like a rock star.
I’m a baby, haven’t been born yet, but I’ve been a mechanic for about 6,000 years, and Chris kinda knows what he’s talking about in terms of clarification. Guuguugaagaa 👶🏼 🍼
Best comment here lol
😂😂😂
Great video Chris! Thank you for helping us "Amateurs'" understand the difference between a transmission fluid change and a fluid flush, which as I have now learned could affect how the transmission performs. This was a most helpful video to clear the air on how to work with a transmission that may not have been serviced, since I bought it used. BTW, all the videos I have watched that are on automotive topics have been from you. Thank you again for providing us with a wealth of knowledge that is reliable, well-presented and cleanly edited. Great job and keep up the good work! Thank You So Much!
Have you flushed or changed your transmission?
Chris Fix: Thanks for explaining the transmission oil and parts. After watching your video I did fix my 2009 BMW 750li the problem it had was the transmission line rubber hose at radiator return line will burst , some time at transmission I went to dealer they said we don't fix 750li anymore it's too much work they refused. They said you will need full assembly cooler lines $ 1500.00 plus labor and taxes. they charge $120 per hour it all came up to $3500 which I said no and towed the car back home. watching your video help me a lot all working fine I did buy transmission cooler kit with 3/8 fittings Castrol transmission oil at part source, the car has 140 km the service manual says it should be changed every 57000 km I drained the transmission oil it was very burnt like Coffee, I filled up with the new one 24qt no leaks running fine I went back to dealer with same car they were surprise I'm still driving no more dealers service. Thanks to your videos which are very well explained I saved a lot of money with you. keep it up excellent work thanks
Awesome! This is exactly why I make my videos! I am glad that you found my video helpful and were able to repair your car and save money!
Chris Fix : Thanks do you have any video on Mercedes Benz S500 (2008) it's has a door lock problem can't open with the remote fob when it gets -20 degrees cold that's the time it stops working if it's + side then it's working fine , Opening it with mechanical key it's hard to open all the doors from inside .Going to dealers its useless they don't serve wright away you need appointment it can some time a week if you are lucky . For me you are my first choice and I know your videos are well explained and you have beautiful voice thanks .
Bashirsz Darz late reply, but if I were to guess I'd say that either some kind of grease is thickening in the cold, or a small amount of water is getting in there and freezing, making it so it takes more force than the actuator can apply... But I can't be at all sure about that
BD- Do not forget that cold weather affects battery strength, which may contribute to your problem. I also weatherize my car locks by getting a graphite oil and applying it to my keys and run them in and out as well as turn many times to be sure it has gotten to all mechanisms. Also, apply some type of lubricant to the catches of your doors, hood, and trunk. I'm sure M-B has some exotic type that they sell for mass amounts of money, but a good parts guy or girl will have the equal for 10% of the dealer price.
They always make everything sound impossible, the auto industry is very corrupt.
It doesn't matter whether these videos are 5 months or 5 years old - they are always helping. Thank you ChrisFix for your knowledge.
I am not a real mechanic, but I play one on TV, and in my professional opinion, Chris really nailed it here! He really knows his stuff, boy!
Dude I wish every video was as informative as yours. You answered all the questions and what ifs. Thanks
Im so glad that I ran into this video... so many people keep telling me to not change my transmission fluid... and this helped me realize that ive been lied to for years. thanks Chris... this is a very informative video
So what happened did you change it
@@gilbertgarcia9075yes and nothing bad happened. My car changes gears a lot smoother.
Same here. I have 230k on my truck and don't know if it's ever been changed. I've always been told if you don't know when it was last done, don't change it. Just now seeing this video. Looks like I'll check it and do a change, not a flush
@@omaha-republican Yes i honestly feel like if you think it needs to be changed then do it and if you feel nervous about it... just drain a little bit by a little bit... just make sure its filled at the recommended fill line.
This guy never ceases to amaze me. Not only does he have knowledge, but the audio and visual is at its optimum. GOOD STUFF.
Gary Kovach
What.
Why dont you just marry him
Cuz I'm chasin Eric the Car Guy THILLY!
Gary Kovach I
That gen 4 Corvette's dipstick has more information engraved on it than a doctorate thesis. All the more reason to get one - GM's finest engineering, no doubt. Awesome video - you are a real mechanic... you know how this stuff actually works. Subscribed.
I've been tormented about this for months. Thank you! A drain and fill is the next logical step.
I recently purchased a 2018 Ford F-150 xlt. It has over 140k miles and wasn't sure if the previous owner had changed or flushed the transmission.The 10 speed transmission 10R80 has a dipstick on the top of the transmission. The fluid was black and decided to change the fluid and filter. Beware of anyone who has the 10R80 transmission. Every parts store say they have the filter that fits it but was wrong. Make sure it's a bolt on and not just a press fit. I did notice a huge difference in how it acted in switching gears and no shuttering or slip or skipping gears. It literally acts like it's brand new. What I used was Triax ulv and I do recommend
Always loosen the fill hole first. Otherwise you can loosen the drain plug and drain the fluid......
And not be able to fill it if the fill bolt won’t come out
TRUE. If by chance you cant get the filler hole bolt out, or you round off the shoulders of the head trying, at least your car is still driveable.
In that scenario, fill it through the dipstick hole?
@@peytonannett4911 thank you for being the voice of reason
Thanks
@@peytonannett4911 Thanks
My father worked for a large law enforcement agency for many years. Back in the 70’s the agency did a sting operation where they took an old beater car around to various transmission shops for so called repair.
Much of the internal parts of the transmission were marked for identification purposes and to determine if parts had been replaced.
The car was driven to the shops with a relatively easy fix, just a vacuum hose was disconnected. Of the 13 shops checked, 8 would be transmission shops committed fraud by selling the undercover officer an alleged transmission rebuild.
To this day I still don’t trust transmission shops.
JC RAY yup, sounds about right, sadly transmission shops are more often than not going to scam the customer because so little is understood. And the ones who are trustworthy gain local legend status. Outside Philly it was Pats transmission, good guys.
Very very very helpful and informative!
It isn't restricted to trans shops. Many regular mechanics and oil change shops also take advantage of the common driver. They either upsell on work not needed or just outright cheat by not doing what they charge for. People's unfamiliarity with how their cars work is what gives dishonest workmen the upper hand.
Paul Morphy I completely agree with you. Three years ago I took my 4 wheel drive truck in for some work at a transmission shop. The transfer case on the truck had been completely rebuilt less than 1000 miles earlier. The owner of the transmission shop called me to inform that the fluid inside the case was black in color as if it had never been changed in 200k miles.
Knowing the case had just been rebuilt, I called his bluff. Advised him it was just rebuilt and asked him if he believed the rebuild case was failing. The shop owner did a complete 180 and said the fluid didn’t look that bad.
Yes, always trying to rip you off.
@@1960JCRAY That would be funny if it weren't so sad. Fluid is black but not really THAT bad. Right. I wonder what he would have done if you said you'd be right down to have a look.
Letting a novice see what the benefits and consequences of changing and/or flushing versus waiting too long are outstanding. I like the physical breakdown and visual aid of seeing all the valves and channels of a transmission as well as the fact the torque converter hold a lot of fluid.
Mechanics have told me you always chage your automatic transmission fluid every 50k miles, and if you do it will stay relatively clean, run well and not allow dirt to wear down your transmission.
This is doubly important for CVTs
The manufacturers of modern cars will say their fluid is good for the life of the trans, but their warranty only covers 50-70k miles. If your car is 100k miles on it and it's black, you are fucked even though "it lasts the life of your transmission" that's just a fancy way of saying when your tyranny dies, the fluid lasted the life of your tyranny because you didn't maintain it.
and remember the makers want you to buy another transmission or a new car or they wouldn't keep making new models and wouldn't seal/remove dipsticks on Continuously Varible Transmissions and newer models.
Like this channel said, don't flush if it's never been changed in 100-200k miles and it's dark with metal shavings, the damage is done and without the particles of metal it will slip and be worse off and possibly break if the channels are blocked off from the flush.
Always change your transmission fluid.
Change your motor oil every 5000 miles(synthetic oil) and filter (premium filter).
Change your coolant every 3-4 years so it doesn't corrode the internals and cause issues with electronics.
Change your spark plugs to iridium spark plugs that last 70k miles. The copper ones last 30k ish.
You may need to change fuel injectors if the previous owner didn't maintain the car.
Changed my fluid and 2 weeks later the tranny blew….
All take a Honda cvt over any tranny any day for longevity
@@noahshields507 :( Sorry to hear that. Did you change it completely or partially?
@@noahshields507 I acquired a 2011 Santa Fe with 90k miles and the oils looks and feels burnt. Probably never changed it. I wonder if I should make a partial change.
Lol...damn. I've never seen a dipstick with a short story written on it like that.
Ya should've seen the dipstick on the old '63 pontiac I had. It was a novel
Lol
But it is really a great idea! Not like in Japanese cars) of cars with sealed AT
Manuel Santos If they're not reading the manual, then they're probably not reading the dip stick either...
Right! Mine didn't have all that 😆
It’s almost like manufacturers want the transmissions to go bad, so you can get another car....😱. CONSPIRACY
Reality 😱. They also have sealed headlights now so you can't just replace the LED. You need tge whole assembly
Ray G Tf? That’s a dumb ass thing to do. Money hungry ass.
Carspiracy😩
This isn't really targeting the kind of person that is buying a new car. Its really aimed at destroying the used market so that people are forced to buy cars from the dealer/manufacturer
@@Seethenhagen Exactly...Please see my comment above.
Probably the best info that every one can understand about the content in here.
Well done!👌
Transmissions are like electrical outlets/nobody thinks about them until they don't work properly.Very good video, it uses logic and NOT opinion.
but electrical outlets are very cheap and easy to change
383 dislikes are from crook shop owners who scares you that your engine is about to blow and you need a coolant flush, an engine rebuild and a brand new seat belt!
Actually when your car starts eating oil like crazy, an engine rebuild (well, sealer ring replacement, which involves taking out and disassembling the whole engine block) IS your only option.....
"brand new seat belt" LMAO!
Or fix the oil leak.
B Anno fixing an oil leak is cheaper than topping of your oil like a dumb fuck
YUGI Sometimes it's not depending on the car & the price of oil.
Some require the engine to be pulled to change a rear seal or oil pan gasket.
As a car mechanic novice this was extremely helpful and informative.
Thank you Chris!
I've been operating motor vehicles for a while now and everyone I ever changed the filter and a five or a few quarts on, it helped it and i noticed a smoother shift quicker shift. The worst that's going to happen is NO CHANGE in which case you didn't need to or it's worn-out period. Truthful vid.
Chris, man, the level you go to to explain a complicated concept in a simple to understand way is so unreal. Thanks so much for taking the time to educate.
+xiingli Thanks! I am glad you guys are learning a lot! It makes me happy to hear the video made a complicated topic, simple to understand!
I've just found your videos. My dad is an amateur car guru, and whenever I have any issues with my vehicle, I go straight to him. Ever since I've subbed and been watching your videos, I've been getting more and more knowledgeable about the mechanics of an automobile and now it's something that he and I can talk about for hours. Thank you for what you do my dude, keep it up!
Awesome!
If you are doing towing or other heavy loads the transmission fluid should be checked more often. Greater force between the gears can make more heat and wear out the transmission fluid at a faster rate.
This guy is THE GOAT!!! Thanks -- helped me make a descision going into a repaiir and know what I was talking about when dealing with "The Mechanics."
Did a change only -- car running smoother and not shifting hard anymore.
When I bought my 2nd car( I was 19) the trans fluid had a slight dark tinge so I went to get a fluid change, ( here come the fun part I'm standing there when he pulls the filter and sets it on the drill press and pick up some shavings from the drill and puts in on the filter( guess he forgot I was standing behind him). He brings the filter and me to the manager and says"ooohh this trans is shot look at the metal in the filter" The manager looks at me and says" let me work up a number for a trans rebuild"." I said OK can I use your phone"? "who are you gonna call"? The police I saw your man take those slivers off the bench press and put them on the filter and I'm gonna have you arrested for fraud". Mgr "let's wait a second and talk this out". "sure change fluid put new filter for free" Mgr went OK' got it for free and STILL reported him to Motor Vehicle Service of the City and State of N.Y. Went by a few weeks later and place was boarded up.
Kevin Barry didn't happen
proof or g.t.f.o
Many years ago we took our vehicle in for a fluid and filter change. The guy at the shop said it wouldn't help and showed me the little filings in the pan. He wanted me to commit to a rebuild. I couldn't afford it at the time so they just put the old transmission fluid back in and sent me on my way. He said I would be back in a month for a rebuild.
My dad convinced me to change the fluid and filter. Man was I ticked off when I pulled the pan off of that transmission and found that they had torn the screen off of the filter and just put the old fluid back in. I didn't know how to do a flush at the time so I just changed the fluid and filter. WOW!!!! All of my shift problems cleared up and the car ran great for as long as we had it. So I always, ALWAYS recommend doing a fluid and filter change a least or a (flush is best in my opinion.)
You don't have to pay the big bucks for a flush either. You can just do the fluid and filter change first. Then before you start the engine take off the return hose FROM the transmission cooler going back TO the transmission and direct it to your drain pan. Then start the engine. Your new fluid will push the old fluid out all the way through the system including but not limited to your torque converter and trans cooler. When the fluid coming out of the return hose is clean your system has been almost completely flushed. ALMOST. I don't know what percentage didn't get changed but this is pretty thorough.
I do NOT believe the shop in my situation put any metal filings in the pan. There are frequently vary small fibers and filings in the bottom of an oil pan. I am CERTAIN they tore off the screen from the filter! My filter was just a fine mesh screen. I would have turned them in but I figured it would be just my word against theirs. It just makes me wonder how many people they conned and how long it went on.
Urban Misfit lol i know right
Kevin Barry I hope you watched closely as they worked on your car!
Without a doubt one of the clearest, concise informative videos I have ever seen on youtube.
+CrazyDaveIowa Agreed. Finally some people who really explain you the shit you need to understand unlike other youtubers with fake titles and click baiting.
EVAR!
My father has a 2001 Nissan Frontier V6 with 288,000 miles that I borrowed this week. When I picked it up he warned me about the morning sickness. After moving a children's playhouse (the reason for needing a truck) I decided it would be nice to service the transmission as a thank you. Just as I was about to start he text saying he had never changed the fluid or filter and said I should not either because he had 2 mechanics warn him that it would never run again. I heard this myth 30 years ago and was told back then the only concern was for older (pre 1970) models. Fast forward to 2023. Since this is not my vehicle I decided to check it out on you tube before proceeding. This video is the best one PERIOD. It answered all the questions and explained why this might be a concern. I decided to proceed and worst case scenario, I could add some transmission additive that has grit in it to help the clutches catch. At least the fluid and filter would be clean which should fix the morning sickness. This video gave the information for me to make an informed decision and the confidence to proceed. Everything worked out perfectly. No issues and the transmission works great. No slipping and no morning sickness. Thanks for being concise and presenting the information in an order that makes sense. I wish all videos on you tube were this good!
This man saving lives with this kinda content
My rule of thumb: If it has never been changed, do a simple drain and fill. If you are nit-picky and want to have clean fluid but worry a flush possibly causing damage to your transmission, do a drain and fill, add some Trans Tune, drive for a couple hundred miles and do a drain and fill again. Has always worked for me.
Exactly the way I do it.
Thanks for the tip, my fluid on my G35 is real old, no metal flakes it’s just black and smells. I’ll try this after my next change.
Thanks I like your advice
@@Impulse1226 3 months later how's it goin?
@@thedug1692 still great
We landed a man on the moon and we still don’t know the mysteries of our transmission fluid
LMAO yup
Maybe that man on the moon was in Universal Studios...walking across the moon on a movie set. ....shows how easy we take important knowledge for granted.
Makes you think right!
Cole Lutz we landed a men on the moon and still can’t figure out how to make toilet seats not slide back and forth
Lol rockets are easier auto fix
I’ve been telling people this same information since 1999. Good video. Sad part is maintenance shops are not telling people about the requirements to keep a vehicle running correctly.
I work on cars since the invention of wheels and... And chris you are crazy man, you know every details. I gonna cry.
Wow, that demo of WHY replacing old, black fluid can cause slipping is a game-changer! All makes sense now, thanks for devoting your time to teaching us!!
i love when someone takes the time to really learn their craft... dude knows his stuff
Thanks a lot Matt!
Yea he does. I watch and recommend this guy ALL the time.
ChrisFix 2001 Chevy Malibu closed transmission how to see if it's full
burn it
This info is correct. Back in the 1970's my brother and I got the dumb idea to change the fluid our dad's 12 year old Plymouth. I am guessing that the fluid had never been changed. A few days after the change, he was driving home from work. The transmission starting slipping, and he had to be towed home. I am guessing the valve body got clogged up with the sludge that was cleaned by the new fluid.
I have always wonderd how much longer the transmission would have lasted had we not changed the fluid.
When I flushed and completely changed the transmission fluid in my Buick the result was amazing. After a day of driving, it was shifting smoother and operating like a new car.
Glad it worked well for you! How many miles and what was the condition of the old fluid?
Been working on bikes and cars since the early 70's, and I'm still learning something new every day....Thanks Chris!!!
Note to fellow VW/Audi owners. Even though your owner's manual (and likely your dealership) will say, "Sealed transmission -- lifetime fluid," I strongly recommend doing a full pan drop and fluid and filter replacement at least every 60K miles. Same goes for Volvo, Mercedes Benz, BMW, and other cars with ZF automatics.
found this out to late. My 06 vw passat is almost at 100000 miles and the tranny is slipping and thumping. when i first got the car i wanted to change the transmission fluid but a mechanic told me that it is a lifetime fluid and does not need changing (was at 78000miles). now im wishing that i changed it
Yeah they do. Fluid for my differential was just under $50 per .45l bottle. $150 diff fluid change is painful
John E I work at a vw dealership and they recommend transmission services every 40-60k, DSG and regular automatic
I have had an Audi for 14 year but only driven it every summer so I have on 25,000 miles on it. Should I have the trans fluid changed.
Xyv Xyv
I agree, I changed the transmission fluid on my 2011 Malibu at 75k miles and it came out black. The manual says it's a lifetime fluid and it was to be changed at 100k. Three drain and fills brought it back to good condition and I will be doing a simple drain and fill every 25k. Cheap insurance IMO.
Hi man you have just answered all my questions on changing transmission fluids,even untruths that was told to us today; we thought it was wrong so now we know,thank you so much & God Bless!!!!
I wonder what untruths you were told... what the video convinced you about - what is right. Because I agree with the video only to a certain part.
You have given me hope. Thanks for sharing such complete, simple, and well thought out information.
Nice job on the video. 30 yrs building transmissions. You covered the topic very well.
Bottom line, if it ain't broke, don't fix it.
How an automatic transmission works “power goes in witchcraft happens and your vehicle moves” 🤣
lol
Nailed it without a video! Brill.
when they make it in the factory their team of wizards puts magic smoke into the engine, and if the magic smoke ever leaks out of the engine your car doesn't work anymore
"Aliens"
I have a buddy who is a next level mechanic. Ask him anything and he’s done it or has a pretty good idea of how too. Recently rebuilt the engine in his Tacoma. I asked him to rebuild my 4R100(automatic transmission in the first gen super duty’s). He said “Nope! Automatics intimidate me!” 😂
My truck has 183k miles and the fluid was never changed. Scared to do it at this point
You've given me the best and most clear information of any video I've watched. Thank you.
Great, Chris. I had heard that myth that changing the fluid in a transmission can damage it. Now I understand. Thanks 🙏🏻 You have a very pleasant manner.
Don’t know what I’d do without you Chris!
Thanks!
One of the best videos I have seen on RUclips in years! Thanks! It totally made sense!
Bro. I bow to you. Thank you for saving us sooo much headache
Damn, this guy is really good.
+gentlemonsterkennels thanks
+ChrisFix How do you get that tick- check mark on you're channel?
+AppleApplesyumAlt it has something to do with youtube confirming his channel as his own I believe. kinda like a copyright if I'm not mistaken.
+gentlemonsterkennels Sadly everything he has said, I had to learn the hardware when I bought an older car.
Dirty, change it. Black as hell? Don't touch it, run it till it dies, or plan for a reman transmission later.
wjrneo2 Damn. Sorry to hear that. But sometimes we have have to learn the hard way. Right now, I'm at 68k miles on my 2012 mustang GT. Owner's manual says to change it at 100k. But I don't feel safe waiting that long.
Here's my transmission story, GM 4L60E, 205,000 miles when I acquired it. 2 wheel drive, '97 Blazer. It was operating normally when I began the flush, disconnecting the top radiator trans. cooler hose & flushing a gallon at a time by starting the engine & holding a hose against the fitting & filling up a gallon jug. Then, I would add 4 quarts & repeat. The transmission fluid coming out was the brownest I'd ever seen. However, it did not smell burnt & no metal particles in the pan. After I flushed the transmission to where the fluid was pretty again I dropped the pan & then changed the filter. No difference in performance, before or after. That was 45,000 miles ago, I keep the fluid clean & full & all is well.
One of the worst transmissions to work on. I saw the transmission model and my stomach fell. Just got home from working on mine in my friends shop 😒.
@@nathanporter256 : That might be, I've never worked on any transmission, manual or automatic. Other than fluid & filter changes. The 4L60E has been rated as one of GM's best by all the articles I've read. The 700R4 not so much, from which it came. But according to the articles GM stuck with it, fixing all the problems areas & turning it in to a reliable transmission. Mine has remained trouble free although it probably is a nightmare once one opens it up.
@bad Good : I see no need. It's a V8 transmission behind a V6. Two wheel drive, never abused (by me, anyway). The Blazer has a (replaced) radiator in which the transmission cooler is built in. I guess all automatic trans. radiators have that cooler but this one also had an oil cooler as well, which I bypassed but that's another story. I find it not really to be a cooler but more of a transmission warmer in the cold months, which helps as well by getting the ice cold fluid warmed up quicker to operating temperature. I just keep the trans. fluid full & find no running hot issues appear in summer time. It leads an easy life, never has to work hard.
Another great video from Chrisfix. I have watched several, and they are the best car repair and maintenance videos on youtube!
Dang bro, you have a good detailed way of explaining things. I'm subscribing
I love your enthusiasm when you make a video it's like you're making a motion picture Oscar nominated
Thanks a lot!
You’re truly an engine genius brother. I love to watch these breakdown videos, not only for entertainment purposes, but also for educational purposes as well. Thank you for all the information and intelligence you put out for all consumers, not just mechanics.
Although he couldn’t outright say it but if your transmission fluid is black and burnt, the reality is, it’s probably going to be best to just leave it as it is until the transmission completely dies. It just means the transmission is already at the end of its life span and if changing the fluid causing it to slip gears is highly likely. Pretty much if it’s burnt it’s already too late and may be a good idea to prepare to replace/rebuild it soon.
The video was excellent advice overall!
IDK Chris I have a 1992 Acura Vigor. I changed xmission fluid yearly when I drove a lot. Average 25000 miles per year. I’ve retired the vehicle to maybe 600 miles per year. No xmission problems changed engine at 250000 miles. Still a great car! Next year paint scratch and dent! Great info!
Bought a Pontiac Sunfire with one of those “sealed system” automatic trans in 2003.
Drove it well over 300,000 miles. Yes, a Pontiac Sunfire.
Went to have the trans serviced at 100,000 miles. Tech told me if I hadn’t serviced it yet, I probably shouldn’t bother, so I didn’t.
Never had it serviced. It never slipped, nor failed. I sold the car, but after 2 years, and 1000’s of miles, it’s still going strong.
Guy said the odometer went out at 410,000 miles, and it uses a quart of oil every 1500 miles, but other than that, no problems!
Guess I should’ve kept it. I only got $500 for it.
i LOVE those sunfires to death. i've wanted one for years (a manual not auto) but theyre becoming more and more elusive.
Great and accurate video. One thing that I'd like to add: When choosing a transmission fluid that meets your specific type, the wording is important. If the fluid brand says it "meets the requirements of" your needed type fluid, that is not as safe of a choice as if it says, "Approved". "Approved" means it will be recognized as the correct fluid by the car and transmission manufacturer. Meeting the requirements is just the claim of that oil brand's chemist.
Exactly, and since most chemical companies make the right kind for pretty much every trans out there, why take a chance?
😀 AWESOMENESS! Great video. It's concise, yet informative. You get to the point quickly and keep the viewers engaged 🙂👍
Chris, this is the most informative video I’ve seem on transmission service wether that be changing or flushing the fluid. As a transmission builder I’m asked these same questions pretty much daily and most of the time the customer is still apprehensive about doing a flush or fluid change. I’ve told customers similarly as you stated basically, if the fluid is darker than a maroon color that I only recommend a fluid change. I advise them to do service as the OEM stated in their owners manual or damage will occur. Your explanation and demonstrations of the fluids, and hard parts is remarkably accurate and commendable as a RUclips DIY’er and your channel is always a good recommendation for every individual DIY’er.
If the customers fluid is pink (very rare) unless recently flushed or red then I recommend a fluid flush although not using a trans flush machine. After 20yrs of diagnosing, rebuilding and maintaining thousands of transmissions for my customers. I’ve always flushed the tranny’s via the trans cooler return line at the trans method as well as removing the pan to replace the filter, clean the pan and magnet. This insures the torque converter, valve body assy(s), clutch packs, lubrication circuits, trans cooler and lines are flushed of as much debris (clutch material, varnish & metal or moisture contamination) as humanly possible.
The only Transmissions that didn’t work for or that started slipping afterward were transmissions that were well on their way out and in need a rebuild in the first place. Your repeated stating of “follow the OEM owners manual” is by far the best advise you can give a customer. As far as transmissions that use “lifetime fluid” is just that, once the fluid has been heated to the point of viscosity breakdown it is no longer a good viscosity for lubrication and is now only a friction modifier therefore it needs to be replaced. I’ve got literally hundreds of customers that will state that fact after I showed them the condition of their old fluid and the damage and in some cases the carnage it caused.
Maybe lifetime fluid means when the fluid becomes worn out and contaminated the transmissions dies
@@arthurdolle5257technically it's 100% true that the fluid will last the lifetime of the transmission.
top notch professionalism
Thank you!
i agree!!! I am glad I found you Chris. Very clear & confident in your talking & videos! I am subscribing! Just based on this video, I know the shop stuck it to my mom ( & me) about cleaning the carbon & the trans fluid. NOW I know!!! Thanks!
+ChrisFix You're a freaking monster! You are incredibly helpful and generous with your knowledge! And you're not a fake, the real deal. What a freaking stud!
This is the most informative explanation on transmission fluid and how it can affect your car. Thanks for the information!
I am a 30 year brain surgeon, and I can tell that Chrisfix is saying the right things.
No he's not... there are many cars with same Gearbox, another manufacturer says "never change" but same transmission in different manufacturer and voila you have clear instructions whwn to change fluids...
So owners manual is just useless
@@jkarra2334 listen to me and to Chrisfix, you cant go wrong.
@@rubencv4552 i have worked with trannies over 30 years now, what i wrote i meant.many manufacturers just dont mention anything about transoil change even If same trans in different car maker has a service program...
If you just look up servicebook you will miss very much important info with many many cars unless you have someone who actually knows the intervals for oil and filter change....
For older cars i would ever never Dona complete flush, If you have cars with over 150K miles just let it Be, fill If necessary but flushing will destroy autotrans in many times, specially worn clutch pack which will not survive a flush, but with good luck may survive If just add missing oil....
I have done hundreds and hundreds repairs to older trannies which have ruined with Flushing.
You neither change oils in service intervals orbjust leave itbif there's no mention about service...
@@jkarra2334 just put back in what you take out duhh
@@debrajohnson4689 Doesnt work that way, oh ignorant one
Really good explanation Chris. I'd been wondering about this for some time, people had varying opinions, but after about 14 years finally changed (not flushed) the fluid in my '03 Monte (color was pretty good). Thanks for reassuring me, and for the work you put into this video to help us understand more about transmissions in general.
wow I really thought this was going to be a bs video but you did a great job I have been in the auto industry for around 10 years and your video is spot on thank you for being honest with everyone who watches your channel
***** I did lmao