How much should a full transmission fluid change cost?
Typically about $150–$350 in the United States for a standard automatic transmission service, with higher costs for full machine flushes, CVTs, or service at a dealership. Prices vary widely by vehicle and location.
What people mean by a "full" transmission fluid change can differ: some shops perform a simple drain-and-fill, others use a machine to flush the system, and some include filter replacement, pan gasket work, or line flushing as part of a comprehensive service. The following sections explain options and price ranges, plus regional differences.
What a full transmission fluid change usually includes
The following list outlines common service types and their typical price ranges. It helps compare what you’re paying for beyond just “changing the fluid.”
- Basic drain-and-fill (no filter/pan work): typically $80–$150 at independent shops; $150–$250 at dealerships.
- Machine-assisted transmission flush: typically $180–$350 at independent shops; $300–$450 at dealerships or specialty centers.
- Full service with filter replacement (where applicable), pan gasket service, and sometimes line or torque converter flushing: typically $250–$600, with higher prices for luxury brands or CVTs.
In practice, the exact price depends on the vehicle and the scope of work. It’s common to see higher quotes for luxury makes, European automatics, or vehicles with special fluid requirements. Always request a written estimate that itemizes parts, labor, and disposal fees before authorizing work.
Price ranges by region
Prices vary by country and city. The ranges below reflect typical starting points for budgeting in 2024–2025 across major markets.
The following country-level ranges are common starting points for budgeting. They assume standard automatics with conventional ATF matching the vehicle’s specification; specialty fluids or CVTs may push costs higher.
- United States: $150–$350 for a basic service; $300–$600+ for a full service or high-end vehicles; higher at dealerships.
- Canada: CAD $200–$450 for a standard service; more for premium brands or CVTs.
- United Kingdom: £120–£350 for a routine service; higher for complex transmissions or dealer work.
Prices can vary widely based on city, shop type, and the specific vehicle. Use these ranges as rough guidelines and seek a formal written estimate with line-item details before proceeding.
What factors influence the cost
Several variables determine the final bill. The main ones include:
- Vehicle type and transmission: automatic vs CVT or dual-clutch; luxury or European transmissions often require special fluids and additional labor.
- Service scope: drain-and-fill, machine flush, or full service with filter, pan gasket, and potential line or torque converter work.
- Fluid specification: Dexron/Mercon or brand-specific fluids; synthetic vs conventional formulations; some vehicles require expensive or specialty fluids.
- Labor rates and shop type: independent shops typically charge less than dealerships; urban areas may have higher rates.
- Add-ons and parts: new filter(s), pan gasket, screen, seals, disposal fees, and diagnostic checks.
- Vehicle condition: aged or contaminated fluid, sludge, or debris may require extra labor or parts.
Understanding these factors helps you compare quotes fairly and avoid paying for unnecessary steps. If a shop proposes a “full service”, ask which components are included and whether a filter or gasket is replaced.
Summary
For most passenger cars with standard automatics, a basic fluid change often lands around $150–$350, while a machine flush or more thorough service can range from $300–$600 or more. Luxury brands, CVTs, or complex transmissions can push the price higher, and dealer services typically top the price scale. Always obtain a written, itemized estimate before service and clarify exactly which fluids, parts, and disposal fees are included. Prices vary by region and shop, so compare a few quotes to ensure you’re getting a fair deal while meeting your vehicle’s specifications.
