How much should it cost to change transmission fluid?
A fluid change tends to be between $80 and $250. There are some factors that affect the price such as the type of transmission (automatic or manual), the make & model as well as the location as costs of labor varies in different areas.
What You Should Know About The Costs Of Transmission Fluid Changes
As a dad and auto-body shop / tow-truck business owner who’s seen a lot of car repairs.. Maintaining your vehicle’s transmission can save you A LOT of money and headache later if you address it accordingly. I’m asked more than I can count about how much it should cost for a transmission fluid change. I’ve broken it down below.
If you find yourself in any vehicle trouble from transmission issues or anything at all – our professional Lewisville tow truck service is here to help. Give us a call!
Cost Of Transmission Fluid Change Services Can Vary
You MUST know that a transmission fluid change is not the same as a transmission flush. A change is draining old fluid and replacing it with new fluid.. A flush cleans out all the old fluid and debris from the entire vehicle.
What Are The Transmission Fluid Costs? The Average:
A fluid change tends to be between $80 and $250. The factors that affect the price are below.
Vehicle Type
The make and model of your car play a big role in the cost. Luxury cars or those with complex transmissions can cost more.
Type of Transmission
Automatic transmissions typically cost more to service than manual transmissions.
Type of Fluid
Just like with engine oil, there are different types of transmission fluid. Synthetic fluids cost more but offer better protection.
Labor Costs
This is something that varies depending on where you live and where you get the service done.
What’s Included In A Typical Transmission Fluid Change?
- Draining the old fluid
- Replacing the transmission filter (in some cases)
- Refilling with new fluid
- A basic inspection of the transmission
Some places might also perform a test drive to ensure everything is working properly.
When to Change Your Transmission Fluid
I know that sometimes it seems easier to put off car maintenance but with transmissions, prevention is key. Typically manufacturers recommend changing the fluid every 30,000 – 60,000 miles. If you do a lot of stop-and-go driving or frequently tow heavy loads (like when we go camping), you should consider changing it more often.
Saving on Transmission Fluid Changes:
Tips To Keep Cost Down:
Check The Owner Manual:
Don’t let a mechanic tell you that you need a change if your manual says otherwise and always consider getting a second opinion. Explore different quotes and sometimes you’ll be in luck and find a promo sale. Make sure for any shop running promo’s – do your research on their reviews & quality.
Consider a Trusted Local Shop:
At Paradise-Performance we offer competitive prices and reliable service more-so than a majority of automotive shops. If you’d like to find out more about our European vehicle service or our standard auto repair/maintenance check us out!
The DIY Option
If you’re handy and have the time, changing your own transmission fluid can save you money. However, it’s a bit more complex than an oil change and requires some specialized tools. If you’re not confident in your abilities, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
When to Spend More On Transmission Fluid Changes
While I’m always looking to save money for my family and kids – there are times when it’s worth spending a bit more:
High-Mileage Vehicles: If your car has over 100K miles, it can be worth going for a full transmission flush rather than just a fluid change.
Quality Fluid: Cheap fluid is going to cost you in the long run. Stick with recommended types in your vehicle’s manual
Trusted Service: More often than not, going with a more reputable service may cost an extra 5-10% because they aren’t cutting corners. We often spot potential issues before they become major problems.
The Bottom Line About The Costs Of Transmission Fluid Changes
As a dad that’s juggling my business, kid-activities and other responsibilities, I know it’s tempting to put off car maintenance. When it comes to transmission fluid changes, avoid dodging this one. Call us at DSK Auto and we’ll set you and your vehicle right!