When should transmission fluid be changed on a Honda Fit?

For most Honda Fits with a CVT, plan a transmission fluid change around 60,000 miles (96,000 km), with more frequent service under severe driving conditions. Manual-transmission Fits follow a different guidance that depends on the year and market; always consult the owner’s manual or a Honda dealer for your exact interval.

The question is nuanced because the Honda Fit has used different transmissions over its model years, including CVTs and traditional automatics or manuals in earlier versions. CVTs are the most common setup in newer Fits and have a distinct maintenance schedule and fluid type. Older Fits with a conventional automatic or a manual may follow different recommendations. This article outlines the typical intervals, factors that affect when you should service the fluid, and how to stay on track with maintenance.

Transmission types in the Honda Fit

Understanding which transmission your car has is essential because maintenance intervals differ.

• CVT (continuously variable transmission): This is the most common setup in recent Fits. Honda generally recommends CVT fluid replacement at about 60,000 miles (96,000 km) under normal driving conditions, with more frequent service in severe conditions (hot climates, frequent stop-and-go, heavy towing or dusty roads).


• 5-speed automatic (older Fits): Some early models used a conventional automatic. The maintenance schedule for ATF changes can vary by year; always check the manual, as some models list 60,000 miles or note “inspect/replace as needed.”


• 5-speed manual: Fewer Fits use a manual transmission; manuals typically require fluid level checks and may have no fixed mileage interval published in every year. If a change is recommended, it is usually based on mileage ranges and/or inspection (commonly around 60,000–100,000 miles when needed).

In practice, the exact interval depends on your model year and transmission type, so verify the specification in your owner’s manual or ask a Honda service advisor for your vehicle.

Recommended service intervals by transmission type

Note that intervals can vary by year and driving conditions; the following reflect common guidelines used by owners and technicians for Fits in many markets.

• CVT: Change transmission fluid about every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) under normal driving. In severe service (hot weather, frequent stop-and-go, towing, dusty roads, or very harsh usage), consider 30,000–40,000 miles (50,000–65,000 km) or follow the dealer’s recommendation.


• Automatic (older Fits with conventional ATF): A typical interval around 60,000 miles, but always confirm with the specific model year’s schedule since some variants may differ or indicate “inspect and replace if necessary.”


• Manual transmission: Honda manuals for Fits without a fixed interval often rely on inspection. If a change is indicated, it is usually in the 60,000–100,000 mile range depending on usage and condition.

Bottom line: The owner’s manual for your exact year and market is the definitive source; many CVTs in Fits use a 60,000 mile interval, with adjustments for severe service.

Signs your transmission fluid may need changing

Even if you’re within the general interval, look out for symptoms that indicate degraded fluid and possible service is needed.

• Slipping or delayed engagement when shifting or accelerating


• Unusual noises (whining, clunking, or grinding) coming from the transmission


• Burnt smell or fluid that is dark, cloudy, or gritty


• Rough or erratic shifting, or a transmission warning light

If you notice these signs, have the fluid checked and replaced if the technician recommends it.

Maintenance tips between fluid changes

Taking these steps can help extend the life of your transmission fluid and maintain transmission health.

• Drive smoothly and avoid heavy towing or aggressive shifting when possible


• Schedule service before long trips or hot seasons, particularly in severe climates


• Use the fluid type specified by Honda for your model/year; do not mix fluids


• For CVTs, adhere to the recommended service schedule and have fluid level and condition checked by a qualified technician (some CVTs do not have a user-accessible dipstick)

Regular servicing with the correct fluid type is essential for CVT durability and overall performance.

Summary

For most Honda Fits with a CVT, the typical guidance is to change the transmission fluid around 60,000 miles, with more frequent service if you drive in severe conditions. The exact interval depends on your model year and transmission type, so consult the owner’s manual or a Honda dealer for the definitive schedule. If you experience symptoms of degraded fluid, don’t delay service.

Bottom line: Start with the owner’s manual for your specific Fit, then align with dealer recommendations, especially if your vehicle operates in demanding conditions. Regular checks and using the right fluid are the best ways to protect your transmission.

How much is a transmission flush for a Honda Fit?

$321 - $375
“Dealer” refers to service centers that specialize in one or two makes and sell those vehicles. As a franchise dealer: They use top-quality manufacturer-recommended or “official” parts. Parts usually come with a manufacturer's warranty - ask the dealer about this as details may vary.

Is 100,000 miles too late to change transmission fluid?

No, it is not bad to change transmission fluid after 100,000 miles, and in most cases, it's recommended, especially if you've never done it before. The main risk is that old, dirty fluid can contain debris that might clog up passages if flushed aggressively, but this can be mitigated by opting for a "drain and fill" method instead of a full-system flush, which is safer for high-mileage transmissions. Always check your owner's manual for the specific recommendations for your vehicle. 
This video explains the potential risks and benefits of changing transmission fluid in a high-mileage vehicle: 58sChrisFixYouTube · Apr 8, 2016
Why it's a good idea to change the fluid

• Protects the transmission: Over time, transmission fluid degrades due to heat and usage, losing its ability to lubricate and cool the transmission. 
• Removes contaminants: The fluid circulates and picks up clutch material and other debris. Changing it removes these contaminants that can cause sludge buildup and clogs. 
• Prevents overheating: Clean fluid helps prevent the transmission from overheating, which can shorten its lifespan. 

How to change it safely

• Check the owner's manual: The manual is the most accurate source for your specific vehicle's recommended interval. 
• Choose "drain and fill": This method involves draining the old fluid and replacing it with new fluid, which is safer for high-mileage transmissions than a complete system flush. A full flush can dislodge a large amount of debris at once, which could be problematic. 
• Consult a professional: If you're unsure or if the fluid looks very dark, burnt, or contains metal flakes, it is best to have a qualified mechanic assess the transmission and perform the service. They can determine if a drain-and-fill is appropriate or if other services are needed. 

This video demonstrates how to perform a transmission fluid change: 59sScotty KilmerYouTube · Jun 8, 2021
When to be extra cautious

• If you have a history of neglect: If your car has never had its transmission fluid changed, the fluid is likely very dirty. A gradual drain and fill is the recommended approach to minimize risk. 
• If the transmission is already showing issues: If you are already experiencing shifting problems, trouble shifting gears, or strange noises, changing the fluid may not fix the problem and could even make it worse, so it's best to have a mechanic inspect it first. 

Does Honda recommend transmission flush or drain and fill?

DW1. You will need to do this up to three times to remove all of the old transmission fluid to get it back to that nice new pink color and all new fluid draining will only remove almost four quarts.

When to change Honda Fit transmission fluid?

The general interval for changing Honda Fit transmission fluid is every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, but this can vary based on the specific model year, transmission type (manual or CVT), and driving conditions. For a more precise schedule, consult your owner's manual. Driving in severe conditions may require more frequent changes, possibly as often as every 30,000 miles. 
General guidelines by transmission type

• CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission): Typically around every 30,000 miles, especially for models with a filter that needs replacement at this interval, notes this YouTube video and this 2020 Honda Fit information page. 
• Manual Transmission: Often recommended every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. 

Other factors to consider

• Severe Driving: If you frequently drive in harsh conditions (e.g., stop-and-go traffic, towing, or extreme temperatures), you may need to change the fluid more often, possibly at the lower end of the recommended interval. 
• Honda's Recommendation: While general guidelines exist, your owner's manual is the most reliable source for the specific maintenance schedule for your vehicle. 
• Genuine Fluid: Honda recommends using only genuine Honda transmission fluid for optimal performance.