It’s as important as an oil change’, – easy maintenance job you only have to do every five years could save you £1000s
AN OFTEN overlooked maintenance job could be just as crucial as changing your oil – and it’s easy to do, a motor guru says.
Vehicle owners only need to put the task on their checklist every 30,000-60,000 miles but it could help prevent costly future repairs.
YouTube channel redwingchevroletMN has posted a video explaining why changing your transmission fluid is crucial.
The transmission – whether manual or automatic – moves power from the engine to the wheels, setting the motor in motion.
The fluid lubricates moving parts, cools the transmission and cleans internal components, helping the car shift between gears seamlessly.
To demonstrate its importance, the video narrator compares it to engine oil, arguing it should be seen as equally crucial.
The expert explains: “Just like engine oil keeps your motor running right, transmission fluid is essential for maintaining a healthy transmission.
“Without regular changes, dirt and sludge can build up, leading to increased wear and even costly repairs.
“You might not need to change it as often as your engine oil, but neglecting this fluid can be a fatal mistake for your vehicle’s longevity.”
Because transmission fluid typically needs to be changed every 30,000-60,000 miles, motorists may only need to worry about it once every five years – based on the average annual mileage of 10-15,000.
Drivers can either do it themselves or pay a mechanic to tick off the task, which would set you back about £100.
That figure does, however, average out to only £20 annually if mileage markers are hit on the five-year forecast.
In the video, the narrator urges viewers to think of changing transmission fluid like an investment.
He says it’s “an investment that ensures smoother rides and prolongs the life of your vehicle.
“In the grand scheme of things, regular maintenance is not just care, it’s smart vehicle ownership.”
Vital vehicle jobs and when to do them
Traditionally, engine oil changes have ben recommended about every 3000 miles.
But thanks to advancements in technology, many car manuals these days state the oil swap is only necessary every 7,000 and possibly even 10,000 miles, Kia says.
A faulty air filter can reduce fuel efficiency and engine power – so be sure to get it replaced every 12,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, RAC recommends.
Tyres need be checked regularly, particularly their tread depth. Minimum depth is 1.6mm, but in winter 3mm is strongly suggested to avoid sliding around.
General consensus is they’ll need replacing every 20,000-40,000 miles.
Every 30,000 miles, spark plugs need replacing. Check the handbook to see whether doing it yourself is possible.
The importance of functioning brakes needs no explaining and brake fluid should be replaced every 24,000 miles or 24 months – again, whichever comes first.
Check your handbook for the right fluid, and exercise caution – it is a corrosive substance. If it hits any metal service it will begin to eat through it unless wiped off immediately.