I wanted to change the transmission fluid by myself but I know only the basics of maintaing a car. How do you change transmission fluid?
Most cars require dropping the pan, pulling the filter and changing the gasket. It can be messy but fairly easy. At the parts store get the correct fluid for your vehicle. (Should be Dexron) and a new filter and gasket. Loosen all bolts but leave two or three in until you've drained the old fluid into a large pan with one corner lower than the other. Take out the rest of the bolts. Wipe the pan out, put in the new filter (instructions should be in the box.), replace pan and tighten the bolts to specs with a torque wrench but be careful and make sure it's not foot pounds instead of inch pounds. If you don't have a torque wrench try to tighten evenly with LIGHT TO MODERATE tightness. Check for leaks and snug bolts as needed. Take used oil to lube shop. This only changes SOME of the fluid but it's most often the procedure offered at the garage unless they specifiy a total fluid change. If you want to replace it all, if it's completely nasty, dark and burnt smelling you have to disconnect the trans coolant lines into the radiator too. If it's that bad you may want to have it done and replace the whole shebang.
The fluid must be hot before it is drained; a 20 minute drive should accomplish this.
To install:
If the drained fluid is discolored (brown or
black), thick, or smells burnt, serious transmission troubles, probably
due to overheating, should be suspected. Your car's transaxle should be
inspected by a reliable transmission specialist to determine the
problem.
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It's not easy. You should acquire a repair manual if you want to start doing your own maintenance.
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