Can you change transmission fluid in a sealed transmission?

Even for seasoned DIY car owners, replacing the transmission fluid in a sealed transmission is not something you want to attempt. A minor mistake could lead to major costs, or worse, permanent damage to your vehicle. You may also risk voiding any warranty you have by attempting to service the transmission yourself.

How do you change transmission fluid in a car?

So in order to change the fluid, the transmission pan must be removed so that the old fluid can drain out. With the pan removed, the transmission filter or screen can be replaced. The pan is then reattached using a new pan gasket, and the transmission can be refilled with new automatic transmission fluid.

What happens to transmission fluid when Pan is removed?

With the pan removed, the transmission filter or screen can be replaced. The pan is then reattached using a new pan gasket, and the transmission can be refilled with new automatic transmission fluid. This can be quite a messy process as the fluid drains pretty erratically when the pan is removed.

How big of a Pan do you need for transmission fluid?

Use a pan that can contain up to ten quarts of transmission fluid, although that much probably will not drain out. If you need to remove the entire transmission fluid pan, unscrew the two upper-most bolts halfway, then unscrew the other bolts all the way.

What’s the difference between a transmission flush and a drain?

Gravity is simply not enough to remove it because it sits inside other internal parts. A transmission fluid flush, however, uses pressure to push all the old transmission fluid out of the system as it is refilled with new fluid. It is more of a fluid exchange than a drain and refill.

Is it better to flush the transmission or change the fluid?

This allows you to easily and cleanly drain some fluid from the transmission minus the hassle of removing the pan. Again, though, you only get a third to half the fluid out. You can then drive the vehicle for a while, drain the fluid and change it again.

What’s the best way to drain transmission fluid?

You will need to collect the old fluid in a large catch pan and take the used fluid to be recycled. A wide catch pan is recommended to catch as much fluid as possible. To drain the transmission fluid, you will need to unbolt the transmission catch pan in an automatic transmission, or release the drain plug in a manual transmission vehicle.

How do you change the oil in a transmission?

For manual transmissions, an oil pump is usually needed to pump new gear oil into a hole on the top of the transmission housing. After the new transmission fluid is added, turn your vehicle on and allow it to idle. This will allow the new fluid to circulate throughout the transmission housing and coat all gears and bearings within the transmission.

Can you change transmission fluid in a sealed transmission?