Transmission oil change: function, timing and costs!

Reading time 4 Min.

The experts from the relevant specialist companies can sing the famous song: When it comes to changing engine oil, customers are reliable vehicle owners. But when it comes to transmission oil, the importance of changing it is far from being recognized. But of course gear oil is also a very classic oil that - like other oils - is subject to a completely natural aging process and therefore also suffers from functional losses. And these restrictions then also affect the transmission, which is damaged. Reason enough to give changing the transmission oil the importance that this process deserves.

But what does a gearbox oil change actually mean? What is the benefit, when should it be done and what is allowed? Transmission oil changes cost? This guide summarizes the most important things about changing transmission oil. Do you have any questions? Use the advice of an expert to ensure that your vehicle's transmission is optimally supplied with the right oil!

The function of gear oil is briefly explained

Gear oil and engine oil are like colleagues. While the engine oil - the name says it all - ensures that the engine runs smoothly, the transmission oil performs similar tasks regarding the transmission. Both a classic manual transmission and an automatic transmission are only functional and durable thanks to the right oil.

The lubricating properties that characterize the smooth oils are particularly valuable. Lubrication positively influences the wear of the gears of the transmission and avoids early replacement. But what many people don't know is that gear oil also has cooling properties. Another big advantage: the oil also cleans the gearbox. Because it binds polluting particles and feeds them to the filter, damage caused by friction can be avoided. That's why there are numerous good reasons why changing the gearbox oil is so important.

Transmission oil change: because oil also ages

You can only use these valuable functions of gear oil if the oil is perfect. But oil also ages. Especially because it sucks up the tiny dirt particles from the gearbox. This contamination deteriorates the valuable flow properties that make the oil valuable. This underlines the importance of changing the transmission oil to ensure a properly functioning transmission. So take the regular transmission oil change recommended by an expert seriously!

When do you have to change the transmission oil?

Transmission oil changes occur less frequently than changing engine oil, but are also very important. Normally, the manufacturers of the individual brands recommend the intervals after which the first change should be carried out. These are either gearbox oil changes after six to eight years or between 80.000 and 100.000 kilometers. However, it is difficult to give general values ​​because the driving style and the model are also factors that influence the intervals. Use the advice of a professional to determine the protection of the gearbox!

Nevertheless, there are signs that show even the layperson that a transmission oil change is now due. So if you notice that shifting is not smooth, the gears are more difficult to operate or switching is accompanied by noise, these are alarm symptoms. The symptoms are particularly typical if the transmission oil is not yet warm. You can tell that the gearbox is leaking if there are oil stains under the gearbox.

What happens if you don't change the transmission fluid?

If a transmission oil change is not carried out when it is due, there is a risk of wear and tear and replacement of the transmission - expensive expenses that can be avoided by changing the oil.

What is a transmission oil change?

By changing the gearbox oil, you replace the old oil with a new product that ensures comprehensive functions and prevents wear or damage to the gearbox. The old oil is drained from the gearbox through the so-called drain plug. Then fill in a new and suitable oil. If the vehicle has an automatic transmission, classic transmission oil changes are usually not sufficient. Because of residues of used oil, but also particles that pollute the gearbox, you should supplement the gearbox oil change by flushing the gearbox. This transmission flush also removes dirt from filters and oil coolers. After cleaning, the vehicle receives both new oil and valuable additives.

How much does it cost to change transmission oil?

Are you planning a transmission oil change? Costs of around 200 EUR are then the budget that you should take into account. These prices cover the normal transmission oil change – i.e. draining and refilling. If the gearbox is also flushed, it will be more expensive because the flushing is done with oil and therefore the material is of high value. Reputable specialist companies provide free offers. Use this option. Despite the cost, you should not change the transmission oil yourself if you are an amateur. It shouldn't be worth the cost of saving money if your gearbox is damaged.

Changing the transmission oil as valuable protection

Whether you have a manual gearshift or an automatic transmission, you can protect your vehicle's transmission by using the right oil and changing the transmission oil at regular intervals. Changing the transmission oil costs around EUR 200 and should be done by an expert. They will also advise you on what intervals should be maintained between changes and what driving style protects the transmission or delays the oil change. Get concrete advice now!

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