Content

• To step
• Method 1 of 3: The beginning
• Method 2 of 3: Drain the oil
• Method 3 of 3: Change the oil
• Tips
• Warnings

Gear oil needs to be changed occasionally, usually every 50,000-100,000 kilometers, but more often on some cars. As the gearbox oil gets older, it will become more difficult to shift. You can of course read in the manual of your car how often you need to replace the oil, but you can also learn how to recognize and solve the problem yourself. Note: the steps in this article assume a car with an automatic gearbox.

To step

Method 1 of 3: The beginning

1. Check the oil using the dipstick. ATF oil, which stands for Automatic Transmission Fluid, is used in a machine. The color of ATF oil is usually red or green, so you can distinguish it from engine oil and other liquids. On most cars you can check the oil level with the help of a dipstick, you do this with the engine running.
   • Look for the gearbox oil dipstick, usually the dipstick will have a red handle. Most cars clearly indicate where the dipstick is, usually near the engine oil dipstick. If your car hasn't driven for at least an hour, use the cold engine mark (Cold) as a reference.
   • If the level is low and the oil looks clean, topping up will probably suffice. If the oil is discolored or if it is dirty, then you need to replace it. In any case, change the oil according to the instructions in the maintenance schedule, even if it still looks good.
2. Locate the gearbox sump. The sump pan is attached to the bottom of the gearbox with six or eight bolts, so you'll have to crawl under the car to find the sump. On front-wheel drive cars, the gearbox is usually located under the engine compartment, from left to right. On rear-wheel drive cars, the gearbox usually hangs under the gear lever, from front to rear.
   • Examine the sump pan. On most cars, you can drain the oil by removing the drain plug in the center of the sump pan, and then let the oil flow into a container you set up beforehand. But on some cars you have to remove the entire sump pan. This will require you to remove all the nuts from the bolts along the edge of the sump pan.
   • If you want to check the filter, gaskets or other parts, it might be better to remove the entire sump pan anyway.

Method 2 of 3: Drain the oil

1. Place a container under the drain plug to collect the oil. To be able to collect all the gearbox oil, you need a container that is large enough. Most auto stores sell inexpensive receptacles specially designed to collect oil.
   • If the sump pan does not have a drain plug, draining the oil can become a messy business. The oil will then to over the sump, instead of through the drain hole. In that case, you will probably need a larger container to properly collect all the oil.
2. Examine the oil draining from the sump pan. In a sump of an automatic gearbox you will usually find a magnet, this magnet attracts pieces of metal that have come loose due to the prolonged use of moving parts. This is normal, gears always wear out a little. However, large pieces of metal are not normal. Keep these pieces separate and ask a technician for advice. Maybe there is something wrong with your gearbox.
   • About half of all gearbox oil remains in the gear when draining. The system must be flushed to remove all the oil. This usually happens during a major service. Ask for it at your garage.

Method 3 of 3: Change the oil

1. Assess the condition of the filter and gaskets. While you're at it, it's a good idea to check the condition of the gearbox oil filter and gaskets. Replace it if necessary. They probably won't need to be replaced every time, but filters and gaskets with cracks or tears should be removed and replaced. Purchase replacement parts from a garage or auto accessories store. At a store they can usually look up exactly what type of filter and gasket you need.
   • After this you can screw the drain plug back into the sump pan, or screw the entire sump pan back into place. Do not overtighten the nuts.
2. Start the car and let the engine run for a few minutes. Turn off the car and check the level. If the dipstick indicates too little, you can add some more oil. Repeat this process until the level is correct. Be careful not to add too much oil.
3. Dispose of the oil properly. Gear oil is harmful to the environment, so it is important not to spill anything. Always wear gloves and wash thoroughly immediately if some oil does get on your skin.
   • You can hand in old oil at most garages. You can also call the general information number of your municipality to ask what to do with the old oil.

Tips

• Figure out what to do with the old oil before you start with changing the oil. Make sure it is clear in advance what the intention is. Protect the environment.

Warnings

• In front of manual transmission gearboxes, a different procedure applies. This article is for cars with automatic gearboxes.
• Changing the gearbox oil can extend the life of your gearbox, even if the oil still looks good when you pull the dipstick out. If the oil is dark red or brown, or if the oil has a burning smell, the gearbox must be flushed. This indicates problems with the gearbox. Go to a garage and ask for advice.