How to Change Transmission Fluid

By Mister Transmission

Determining the frequency of transmission fluid and filter changes hinges on many factors

Transmission fluid: it is the lifeblood of your transmission. Without it, your vehicle would cease to run. You need to have the transmission fluid and filter changed at recommended intervals as per your vehicle’s owner’s manual, and a transmission flush ought to be performed at least once every three years.

Transmission fluids serve three purposes: it serves as the hydraulic element within the transmission regulating gear changes, it keeps the transmission clean and lubricated, and it cools the entire transmission system.

There is a lot of friction happening within the transmission. These mechanisms are designed to work with the full capacity of transmission fluid. If the levels drop, that friction is less productive and more damaging. Over time, heat will break the fluid down and be unable to lubricate the system effectively. That puts pressure on the transmission to work harder to pump fluid through the filter.

Checking Your Transmission Fluid Level

If you are experiencing performance issues with your vehicle, you may wish to check your car’s transmission fluid level. But be advised: checking your transmission fluid level can be risky as you need to keep the engine running.

Moreover, in some modern vehicles, it is no longer possible for the average motorist to perform a transmission fluid check. It is advisable to have trained, experienced transmission technician inspect your transmission and the quality of the fluid in it.

Though your vehicle’s owner’s manual will make recommendations as to the required frequency of changing the transmission fluid and filter, you should also weigh the type of driving you do, and the environment where you drive. If you have high mileage on your vehicle, drive in mountainous or hilly terrain, regularly tow a trailer or boat, or if you’re hauling heavy loads, have your transmission inspected annually.

Preventative Maintenance Is Your Best Protection

Although there are no guarantees you can avoid a transmission failure no matter how well you treat your vehicle, you can reduce the risk of a transmission malfunction by ensuring preventative maintenance is performed regularly by a professional.

For more than 50 years, Mister Transmission has kept Canadian motorists on the road by ensuring the transmissions in their vehicles are in tip-top shape. If you have a question about your transmission or want to book a service appointment, contact the Mister Transmission service centre nearest to you.

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Customer Reviews
Kyle and his team did...
Wayne Orlick
Kyle and his team did another perfect job for me! This time on an import piece for my Spitfire. Excellent service and timing while sticking to the quoted price, again :)
Date: February 13, 2025
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I’m incredibly impressed with the...
Katie Tremblay
I’m incredibly impressed with the service I received at Mr. Transmission! They quickly diagnosed and fixed the issue with my car, getting it running like new. Professional, efficient, and extremely well priced. Highly recommend them for any transmission needs!
Date: February 13, 2025
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Great place good people
Wrightaway69
Great place good people
Date: February 12, 2025
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They fixed my Ford E250...
Brandon Sheppard
They fixed my Ford E250 transmission 👍🏻
Date: February 12, 2025
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Raja Gill
Little Pricy
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Great place good people
Wrightaway69
Great place good people
Date: February 12, 2025
Website: Google
Kyle and his team at...
Stephanie Maurice
Kyle and his team at Mr. Transmission were fantastic! They resolved the problem in a timely manner and took the time to ensure I fully understood the issue. Their professionalism, expertise, and excellent customer service made the whole experience smooth and stress-free. Highly recommend!
Date: February 12, 2025
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Great experience with Mr T...
Sharron Mulvey
Great experience with Mr T on Bank Street. Noah has always friendly and helpful. Transmissions is their specialty but he was helpful in giving me information on a few other areas of concern with my vehicle (brakes and worn out tires). It was a quiet week, so he was able to assist with both, in addition to the transmission repair. Appreciated this!
Date: February 12, 2025
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Very Professional team and service....
Shahriar Ayoubzadeh
Very Professional team and service. If you want peace of mind, this is the place.
Date: February 12, 2025
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I recently brought my Honda...
Alexa Tremblay
I recently brought my Honda Accord 2015 in for brake maintenance at Mister Transmission, and I couldn't be more pleased with the service. They completed everything in a timely manner at a fair price. Noah, the location manager, was fantastic to work with—honest, professional, and truly made the experience smooth. I highly recommend them for any car maintenance needs. Best service in Ottawa!
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