If you don't know about the fluids, I'd change them. When you drain the trans, you'll see the color & condition of the fluid. And the amount of mud stuck to the magnetic drain plug. If it's cruddy then change it again a couple more times. Drain&fill is only about 1/3 of the total fluid.

 

if a drain and fill only addresses 1/3 of the fluid, what does it take to drain and fill all of it (or most, as the case may be)?

also, i'm interested in some opinions on what suspension parts would LIKELY need replacing at 145k mi.? at what cost? i'd like the ride and handling to be up to par...or better.

 

When you drain the transmission, only 3 quarts comes out. That means 6 quarts remain. Drain and refill then drive the car for a bit, then repeat 2 more times to exchange most of the fluid.

Spark plugs are pretty easy to replace IMO. I would have the valves adjusted if they are making noise.

 

Honda transmissions don't like being "power-flushed" using any external pumps. One way is disconnect the cooler hoses & use a BIG funnel to pour fluid in while the other hose drains into a big bucket. It's a mess and usually not worth the effort.

If the fluid comes out dirty, then drain/fill a couple more times. When it's clean you can establish a schedule for drain/fill where it doesn't get real dirty to begin with.

 

since the timing belt/water pump (etc) was replaced by the dealer, can i assume the dealer replace ALL other belts (whatever they may be)? if not, what remaining belts would need replaced and at what cost? thank you!

 

Normally they would replace the accy belt, it has to come off to get to the t-belt...