Most people have heard stories at some point or another of a car that has been driven for well over 100,000 miles without having the transmission fluid changed. While this is technically possible, you would have to be incredibly lucky for the same thing to happen to you. That is why your Honda’s owner’s manual tells you to change the transmission fluid; it eventually starts to deteriorate and won’t work as well as it ages.
Deterioration over Time
The biggest reason to change your transmission fluid is this deterioration. The fluid will deteriorate more quickly if you drive hard, such as towing trailers, hauling heavy loads, or frequently driving in stop-and-go city traffic. When you drive in situations like this, the transmission’s operating temperature increases, with the heat increasing the strain on the fluid as well as the transmission. Since the fluid works to lubricate moving parts, cool your transmission, and ease gear shifts, deteriorating transmission fluid can lead to worsening performance in these aspects.
Signs You Should Change It
It is a good idea to take a look at your owner’s manual and follow the guidelines there for when to change your transmission fluid. Keep in mind that those who drive in high-stress conditions, such as those mentioned, above will need to have it checked more frequently. The fluid will normally start red, and you can tell it has deteriorated because the color darkens. Sometimes you will also notice a burnt odor, but this may also mean there are mechanical issues with your transmission. If you see debris or dirt in your transmission fluid, this is another sign it should be changed.
Should You Flush the Fluid?
When it comes time to change your transmission fluid, there are two main options. You can flush it out or simply change it. The process of flushing will force out all of the old fluid, while changing it aims to drain out the dirty fluid so it can be replaced. Many mechanics encourage drivers to flush the fluid, but there is a great deal of debate on the matter and Honda doesn’t necessarily recommend it. Instead, it is safer to simply have the fluid changed.
When it comes time to change your transmission fluid, have the professionals at Brannon Honda in Birmingham, Alabama, do the task for you. We only use Honda transmission fluid so you don’t have to worry about compatibility.
Disclaimer: The stock image is being used for illustrative purposes only, and it is not a direct representation of the business, recipe, or activity listed. Any person depicted in the stock image is a model.