What is a transmission flush*?
A transmission flush is a procedure to remove old automatic transmission fluid (ATF), sludge and grime from a vehicle’s transmission and replace it with fresh fluid. The purpose of ATF is to cool and lubricate your automatic transmission. Over time, transmission fluid collects foreign particles that can interfere with these functions -- causing your transmission to generate more friction and heat. Eventually these particles can build up into sludge deposits in your transmission and interfere with shifting and acceleration.* Available at participating locations.↩
What is a transmission flush good for?
A transmission flush helps maximize the lifespan and performance of your automatic transmission -- one of the most expensive vehicle parts to replace. It does not help with preexisting transmission problems, however.
Is a transmission flush the same thing as changing transmission fluid?
Changing transmission fluid and flushing the transmission are two different services:
- Transmission Fluid Change - Replaces 50%-60% of your transmission fluid. Your transmission pan is drained without special equipment, inspected, and cleaned. The transmission filter is replaced and new fluid is added, leaving a mixture of old and new fluid.
- Transmission Flush - Replaces 100% of your transmission fluid and purges accumulated particles and deposits from the entire transmission. Fluid is expelled from your transmission using a cooler line flushing machine or a pump inlet. The transmission pan is inspected and cleaned, the filter replaced. A complete batch of new, pure ATF is added.
Check your vehicle owner’s manual to see how often your manufacturer recommends transmission flush for your model. Common transmission flush intervals range from every 30,000-50,000 miles to every 3-5 years.
How often should you replace transmission fluid? If you aren’t having full transmission flushes, a common ATF change interval is every 3,000 miles or every two years. Again, check your vehicle’s manual.
Need help choosing which procedure is right for your vehicle? Talk to your local Midas technician. We know transmissions, and we’ll help you design an ATF maintenance plan that works for your vehicle, your schedule, and your budget.
- Midas Closer Look Vehicle Check™ includes visual checks of brakes, battery, air filter, fluids, belts, and hoses.↩
