Does the transmission filter need to be changed?
The short answer is: Yes, the transmission filter should be changed periodically as part of routine vehicle maintenance. The transmission filter plays a crucial role in keeping your vehicle's transmission system functioning properly by trapping debris and contaminants that could otherwise damage sensitive components.
Why Changing the Transmission Filter is Important
The transmission filter is responsible for filtering the transmission fluid as it circulates through the system. Over time, the filter can become clogged with dirt, metal shavings, and other contaminants, reducing its effectiveness. If the filter is not changed at the recommended intervals, it can lead to several problems:
- Decreased Transmission Performance: A clogged filter restricts the flow of transmission fluid, which can cause the transmission to shift erratically, slip, or even fail completely.
- Accelerated Wear and Tear: Unfiltered contaminants in the transmission fluid can wear down gears, bearings, and other components, leading to premature failure.
- Overheating: A clogged filter can cause the transmission fluid to overheat, which can damage seals and other sensitive parts.
To avoid these issues, it's essential to change the transmission filter at the intervals recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer, typically every 30,000 to 60,000 miles or as specified in the owner's manual.
How to Change the Transmission Filter
Changing the transmission filter is a relatively straightforward process, but it's important to follow the proper steps to ensure the job is done correctly:
- Drain the Transmission Fluid: Start by draining the old transmission fluid from the system.
- Locate and Remove the Filter: The transmission filter is usually located near the bottom of the transmission housing. Consult your owner's manual for the exact location and removal instructions.
- Install the New Filter: Once the old filter is removed, install the new filter, making sure it is properly seated and sealed.
- Refill the Transmission Fluid: Refill the transmission with the recommended type and amount of fluid, as specified in the owner's manual.
- Check for Leaks: After the job is complete, start the engine and check for any fluid leaks around the filter or other transmission components.
If you're not comfortable performing this maintenance task yourself, it's best to have a qualified mechanic handle the job to ensure it's done correctly and safely.
What happens when a transmission filter is bad?
A clogged filter can cause the transmission to struggle, leading to unusual noises such as whining, humming, or clunking. These noises are often accompanied by rough gear changes.
What happens if you don't change the transmission filter?
Your transmission will wear out sooner, and potentially stop functioning properly. You can't go any length of time without wear occurring, the transmission is constantly wearing. The wear becomes much more severe with poor fluid condition.
Is it worth changing the transmission filter?
Over time, the transmission filter can become clogged and cause damage to the transmission. By changing the filter and fluid, you can help prevent this damage and keep your transmission running smoothly for longer. The transmission filter is responsible for removing contaminants and debris from the transmission fluid.
How much does a transmission filter change cost?
However, for automatic transmissions, the average cost can range from $80 to $250, and the average cost is around $100. If you have the fluid flushed and the filter replaced, the cost can increase to between $230 and $475.
What happens when a transmission filter goes bad?
When the transmission fluid isn't clean or is blocked by a clogged filter, the internal components won't have the lubrication they require to function properly. This could lead to shifting issues, grinding gears, slipping transmission or other common symptoms of transmission problems.
Will a transmission filter throw a code?
The common symptoms of an obstructed transmission filter include abnormal shifting, noises from the transmission pump, and contaminated transmission fluid. The PCM will also illuminate the check engine light and record a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) if it detects a transmission issue caused by low fluid pressure.
How often should a transmission filter be changed?
In automatic transmissions/transaxles, the recommended service interval is about every 30,000 miles or 30 months. (Check your owner's manual or service manual for your car's specifics.)
Does a transmission flush come with a new filter?
A transmission flush is like performing a oil change by draining and refilling the engine oil alone – no filter replacement.
How do I know if I need to change my transmission filter?
Signs Your Transmission Fluid Filter is Clogged (And What To Do About It)
- An Unexplained Rattle. Sometimes, you know exactly what's making your vehicle rattle.
- Whirs or Whines.
- Leaking.
- Burning Smell.
- Problems Changing Gears.
- A Noisy Neutral.
- Take Care of Your Transmission Fluid Filters.
Why do mechanics say not to change transmission fluid?
That bad fluid may have a “sticky” quality to it or metal flecks that act to aid friction, and if it's changed, the new fluid might cause the transmission to start slipping.
