How Often Should You Get a Transmission Flush?

Transmission fluid is tasked with the important job of lubricating various components inside your vehicle. The lubrication it provides is vital because your car would have difficulty shifting without it. Furthermore, the lubrication also maximizes the longevity of those components. A timely transmission flush is required now and then to keep that lubricant in good condition. Find out how often those flushes will be necessary by continuing below.

What Is a Transmission Flush?

Before we get into the topic of how often a transmission should be flushed, let's first define what that maintenance task involves. Many assume that flushes and fluid changes are the same maintenance tasks, but that's not the case. The main difference is related to how the transmission fluid is handled.

In a fluid change, only half of your car's transmission fluid is drained and replaced. That means you still have a combination of new and old fluids inside your vehicle. Flushing removes the old fluid and replaces it with something new.

From a maintenance standpoint, flushing is preferable because it removes the possibility of your transmission fluid getting contaminated. Contamination won't occur because no trace of the dirty fluid remains inside your car. Still, some vehicle owners may opt against flushing because of the costs involved.

How Often Should You Pay for a Transmission Flush?

According to Kelley Blue Book, keeping your car's fluid levels on point and following regular maintenance schedules will allow your transmission to provide good and consistent service for over 100,000 miles. It is indeed possible for your transmission fluid to last that long, but you cannot bank on it.

The recommended flushing intervals vary from one vehicle to the next. Manufacturers usually outline what those intervals should be, so make sure you check the manual. The general range for flushing begins when your vehicle hits 30,000 miles. According to our experts, you are likely to hit that mark three years after either getting your car or your last flushing.

Why You Shouldn't Wait to Schedule Repair Services

Remember that waiting until that point is unnecessary. If your car is suffering from transmission-related issues, you should take it to a repair shop to check if it needs flushing or a fluid change. Issues to watch out for include difficult gear shifting, poor vehicle performance, and fluid leaks.

Flushing is an essential part of vehicle maintenance. Don't delay getting it because you and your car may suffer the consequences of that ill-advised decision. Drop by our shop today to get your transmission flushing done by the experts at Dusty's Transmissions!