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We’ve had many conversations with our customers here in Rochester, NY – any
time we recommend a transmission flush, our customers ask questions. So what
is a transmission flush? Can’t you just top off the fluid? Is it really necessary?

We understand your confusion – a transmission flush isn’t one of the aspects of
preventative maintenance that usually come to mind. An oil change, new tires,
wiper blades… but a transmission flush? Just like an oil change, your
transmission needs regular maintenance to keep your car running smoothly.

What is a flush?

A transmission flush usually
involves connecting your
transmission to a professional
grade machine to completely flush
the transmission fluid out of your
vehicle. Running solution through
the lines until they come out
clean, it then fills your system with
new fluid.

A transmission fluid change, on
the other hand, simply drains the
fluid with gravity. A change
usually does not drain all of the
fluid, but does allow you to replace most of the old with fresh transmission fluid.
Both services are helpful and can extend the life of your transmission.

Some signs your car needs transmission service:

Carsdirect.com offers these warning signs that you may need a transmission flush
– “There may be times when you need to get a transmission flush, in order to help
protect your car’s transmission:

Transmission Grinding or Strange Noises … If you notice your
transmission grinding or making strange sounds, you should stop the vehicle
and check the transmission fluid level while the engine is still running. Insure
that the transmission fluid color is bright red and not brown or black because
of grime or sludge. If the fluid level of the transmission is acceptable, your
vehicle probably needs a transmission flush.
Problems Shifting Gears … A transmission that contains too much dirt or
sludge will cause sluggish response in the transmission which will result in
your vehicle changing gears too quickly or too late while driving. In manual
transmission vehicles, you may find it very hard to change gears at all.
Slipping Gears … A dirty transmission may cause a lack of hydraulic power,
much the same as not having enough transmission fluid will cause. In order
to stay in the appropriate gear, the transmission must develop enough
pressure.
Surging of the Vehicle … This is caused by inconsistent flow of clean
transmission fluid that is needed to ensure smooth operation of the gears and
other moving parts inside the transmission bell housing.
Delay in Vehicle Movement … Another sign that your vehicle may have
contaminated transmission fluid is when the vehicle stalls for one or two
seconds before moving after having been put in gear. If there are no other
problems with the transmission, a transmission flush may help.”

You should be aware that if the vehicle is displaying these symptoms, your dirty
transmission may have already caused bigger problems. Read more from Cars
Direct here. If your car is displaying any of these symptoms or having other
transmission issues, stop by our shop for an inspection.

Is it really necessary?

Ultimately it is best to consult your manufacturer owner’s manual and follow the
recommended services and guidelines provided. Many manufacturers
recommend a transmission flush every 30,000 miles or 2 years. However, not all
recommend this frequently – some suggest a flush only every 100,000 miles, and
others don’t recommend a transmission flush at all. Sometimes, if your car is
having trouble, you may need a transmission service between the recommended
intervals.

A transmission flush can extend the life of your transmission. Like all
preventative maintenance, the cost and time of this process can save you from
expensive transmission repairs down the road. Our technicians keep track of the
manufacturer recommendations for your vehicle and can help you make an
informed decision for your family. If you have questions about your vehicle’s
transmission, or other concerns, please call us at (585) 242­2360.

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