Auto Transmission Fluid Service Often

[thomasjback]

I just realized how often GM wants us to change the Automatic transmission fluid in our vehicles. I was shocked when the manual stated I needed to change mine every 25K miles. All the other automobiles I have owned only had to be changed either 60K miles or even 100K miles. Is this a side effect of the higher temps. the tranny runs at?
Any suggestions as to how to back that number out a bit? Im here in South Texas so I fall under the average above 90 degree stipulation plus mainly city driving.

Are there any other GM vehicles that require that often of a transmission fluid change?

[jimmy]

check into amsoil trans fluid. amsoil.com. also dont settle for adealer trans flush go on amsoil site it explains a true fluid exchange

[DOUBLE-D]

we will only use full synthetic in our cars and change the transmission fluid every 15,000 miles and engine oil at 5,000 miles.

[VEGASSR]

Originally Posted by DOUBLE-D

we will only use full synthetic in our cars and change the transmission fluid every 15,000 miles and engine oil at 5,000 miles.

Holy crap! I have 75K on my tranny and have never done anything other than check the level.

[Greg Ducato]

I normally suggest serviceing an automatic trans every 30,000 to 50,000 miles depending on how and where it is driven, and the type of fluids used. With synthetics you can extend the service intervals because this type of fluid resists heat and degredation much better than a conventional fluid does. A transmission fluid serves as a lubricant, detergent, coolant and friction modifier and any of these properties can diminish as miles are accumulated, especially when subjected to high heat. If you have more than 35,000 miles on your original fluids it would be a great idea to have the filter changed and system flushed by a professional and use a good synthetic fluid on the refill. Average cost for this type of service will be in the $225-$275 range depending on shop and brand of fluids used. Using the synthetics will really help the transmission and extend your next service another 50,000 or more miles in most conditions.

[Dicktator]

Originally Posted by Greg Ducato

I normally suggest serviceing an automatic trans every 30,000 to 50,000 miles depending on how and where it is driven, and the type of fluids used. With synthetics you can extend the service intervals because this type of fluid resists heat and degredation much better than a conventional fluid does. A transmission fluid serves as a lubricant, detergent, coolant and friction modifier and any of these properties can diminish as miles are accumulated, especially when subjected to high heat. If you have more than 35,000 miles on your original fluids it would be a great idea to have the filter changed and system flushed by a professional and use a good synthetic fluid on the refill. Average cost for this type of service will be in the $225-$275 range depending on shop and brand of fluids used. Using the synthetics will really help the transmission and extend your next service another 50,000 or more miles in most conditions.

Thanks Greg, I had Dealer change my original Trans Oil and filter at 35K, then again at 50K.

At 50K had complete flush, filter and Amsoil. Trans is running cooler with the 100% synthetic.

I also run Amsoil in engine and rear end. Change engine oil about ever 12K or once a year, which ever comes first.

Dicktator

[Greg Ducato]

That Amsoil is some good stuff!

[ICBlue]

Originally Posted by Greg Ducato

I normally suggest serviceing an automatic trans every 30,000 to 50,000 miles depending on how and where it is driven, and the type of fluids used. With synthetics you can extend the service intervals because this type of fluid resists heat and degredation much better than a conventional fluid does. A transmission fluid serves as a lubricant, detergent, coolant and friction modifier and any of these properties can diminish as miles are accumulated, especially when subjected to high heat. If you have more than 35,000 miles on your original fluids it would be a great idea to have the filter changed and system flushed by a professional and use a good synthetic fluid on the refill. Average cost for this type of service will be in the $225-$275 range depending on shop and brand of fluids used. Using the synthetics will really help the transmission and extend your next service another 50,000 or more miles in most conditions.

Greg

That is our recommendation unless we get a vehicle that isn't using proper engine oil, coolant anti-freeze, and thermostat and cooling fans are not working correctly. Synthetic transmission fluid will trun a slight brown color. Correct problem and change fluid and transmission filter A.S.A.P. Plus this will help eliminate seals to become hard, plus possible damage to transmission. Using correct engine oil and coolant will extend life of drivetrain. I have a vehicle in this tropical climiate with 218,668 miles and never had the engine heads removed. Two water pumps and one radiator at 208,144 miles. I also never go over 5 month or 5,000 miles on synthetic oil. Coolant I always check for acid corrosion and alkalinity content. Three years in heat is about life of long life coolant. Stop and go driving can be harder on a vehicle than freeway driving. It also depends on customer driving habits.

One shop owners personal opion of 45+ years growing up with the changes.
Robert