Is it a good idea to do a transmission flush with 108k on the car?

Question

The transmission fluid has never been changed before, and i've heard that it's okay, and i've heard that the transmission can lock up, or stop working afterwards....I'm not sure what to do. A little advice?

This is a 2000 Grand Prix GT, the fluid is not the color it should be so I need to do something!

Answer 1

Yes. For older cars, a 30,000 mile interval is appropriate (for ATF). Some newer cars have lifetime intervals, which I interpret to mean 60,000 mile intervals, because all ATFs wear out eventually. Transmission fluid needs to be flushed or drained and filled. I prefer the second method, even though it removes less than half of the old fluid. Another method, which I will do in addition to the drain and fill (I haven't done it yet because I learned about it recently), is the pump out fluid out of the dipstick hole with a do-it-yourself fluid extractor and fill with new fluid method (pump method). Replace the filter and gasket along with the fluid. Edit: Since it's a 2000 Grand Prix, use Dexron III ATF.

And if you (or whoever does it) overfill the tranny, drain or pump out the excess fluid. Otherwise, the fluid will aerate (bubble) while the car is being driven. Follow the directions in the manual for checking the dipstick - the method is not the same for all cars.

Answer 2

this is a hard choice. flushing the trans is never a bad idea, if done correctly. but i have seen instances where on older(mileage wise) that the fibers from the bands and clutches that are in the fluid are acting as a abrasive and aiding in the
worn bands and clutches hold. and when new fluid is introduced, slipping problems occure. i dont want you to think this is the case with every transmission.
heres some guidlines that ive learned to go by but are not absolute
if the fluid is a darker red/brown color your probably ok

dark brown, be wary

dark enough to almost black and at this point its gonna smell due to the fluid being burnt, dont bother. your trans is already gone and flush will no help at all. it needs rebuilt or replaced.

your car has normal ATF 3 in it. in '05 gm started using fully synthetic trans fluid ATF 5. and the two are not interchangable.

Answer 3

Transmission fluid wears out, metal particles accumulate.
Replace the fluid you wont get it all out but that's OK.
When they speak of flushing they are taking about getting it all out. That means getting the old fluid out of the torque converter also. You don't need to go that far. Get a filter kit also and replace that and the gasket. Lots of rags, it's a messy job. You won't hurt a thing and you'll extend the life of your tranny.
There are only a few cars that have sealed transmissions mostly high end and VW"s. Those need to be pumped out and are not DYI jobs.
If you do tackle this yourself when you have the pan off you'll find a magnet in there, mark the location so you put it back in the same place. Then thoroughly clean the pan with mineral spirits.
Good luck.

Answer 4

Have the fluid changed not flushed. There are at least 5 different types of fluid and most places use only 1 flushing machine. Not good to mix fluids but changing the fluid will be good for it.

Answer 5

How new is the car,most manufacturers do not recommend flushing the fluid,it would help if we new what kind it is.I have flushed lot's of transmissions and never had a problem

Answer 6

your transmission fluid should be changed every 10 to 15 thousand miles according to manufacturers specification's so changing it wouldn't be a bad idea as long as u take it to a place that flushes the system completely

Answer 7

Always a good idea to service the trans--fluid and filter

Answer 8

Ford?
Chevy?
Dodge?
Honda?
Mitsubishi?
Mazda?

ADDED:
I drive a 1991 Chevy 2500 fullsize truck with 261,000 miles on it and have NEVER flushed or drained the transmission.

ADDED#2
If it works fine, why mess with it?
You're just aking for trouble.

Answer 9

if it has never bit change you will just end up massing it up