Transmission Fluid Change Frequency
 

Hi,

I own a 1999 Honda Accord EX, 4cyl/4Dr, 101,500 miles on it. I recently got my car's transmission flushed by a mechanic. (I did the drain/fill X 3 kind of flush. Used genuine Honda fluid).It had been a while. I'm glad I got it done. My car is running much much smoother now.

I would like to know how frequently should I get the transmission fluid (1) changed and (2) flushed? I know Honda recommends a fluid change every 30k miles. I don't know if they even talk about a flush in the maintenance schedule.

But I just wanted to know what the user opinions are. Please let me know what you think and what has worked the best for you.

Thanks
Indy49

RE: Transmission Fluid Change Frequency
 

I suggest changing the fluid every 30k miles.
FYI Honda does not recommend flushes.
Part of the reason is that if the hoses to the cooler are reverse pressurized it can cause damage to the accumulators inside the trans.

RE: Transmission Fluid Change Frequency
 

I did a drain & fill 3 times at 120K to get mostly new fluid in there (drove around for 3-4 days between changes, diluting the fluid) and am going to do a singledrain and fill every 15K miles until 180K when I'll probably do another 3X drain/fill. The drain and fill costs me about $12-15 worth of fluid and is as easy (if not easier) than changing my oil (and I do both at the same time). I figure it's cheap insurance given the history of the 98-02 transmissions and the low cost and difficulty of doing a simple drain and fill. I follow the 30K rule on my 5 speed Accord (93), but on the automatic (00) I've halved the recommended interval to make sure that I get the maximum life out of the tranny.

RE: Transmission Fluid Change Frequency
 

IIRC, Honda recommends much longer intervals for the 1998 I used to have. Like 60k or ?? Personally, Id go along with HondaDude & change it more often.

Judge the need for multiple drain/fills based on how dirty the fluid comes out. Remember, the torque converter doesnt drain so you can only drain about 1/3 of the total fluid.

RE: Transmission Fluid Change Frequency
 

I like to change mine on a yearly basis since it's so cheap and easy to do, why not? Changing it yearly must do wonders for the autos, I dunno what good it does on manuals besides getting rid of the metal shavings from grinding gears.