How to change manual transmission fluid?

When to change manual transmission fluid?

Most manufacturers recommend that manual transmission fluid be changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.
When should I change transmission fluid under heavy-duty use? Some manufacturers suggest changing transmission fluid every 15,000 miles.

You will need the right equipment in order to carry out properly a transmission fluid change:

  • Safety equipment, such as safety goggles and rubber gloves
  • A spanner for the oil drain plug
  • A container for collecting the used oil
  • A funnel and a plastic pipe
  • A jack and jackstands
  • Newspaper (or paper towel) and rags
  • An O-ring if necessary

Changing transmission fluid procedure:

Steps to follow before the transmission change :

Let the engine run for at least 10 minutes to make the oil viscous
The vehicle must be on a level surface with the engine switched off for at least 5 minutes.
Access the sump by lifting your car on jacks or on ramps

How to add transmission fluid?

Adding transmission fluid is easy to do:

  1. How to change transmission fluid: place a container under the drain plug to catch the used oil
  2. How to drain transmission fluid: unscrew the drain plug and let the oil drain out
  3. How to replace transmission fluid: when the oil tank is empty, replace the gasket and refit the drain plug securely
  4. Drain transmission fluid: fill the gearbox with new oil using a tube
  5. Put the filler cap back on securely
  6. Dispose of the used oil at an appropriate recycling centre

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