Automatic transmission fluid should be changed every three years or every 60,000-80,000 km, in accordance with the vehicle manufacturer's requirements.
Every automatic transmission contains multi-plate wet clutches, which contribute to oxidation and contamination of the fluid.
The fluid turns black and can no longer remove deposits effectively. These deposits gradually block channels and valves that control the transmission. The driver may experience this as jerking during gear changes.
A conventional fluid change involves removing the drain plug, draining part of the fluid and replacing the filter. A significant amount of old fluid remains in the transmission.
A dynamic exchange involves connecting a specialist machine to the automatic transmission circuit and replacing the fluid while the engine is running. The car is raised on a lift and all gear positions are engaged during the process. The machine feeds in new fluid while simultaneously collecting the used fluid. The exchange can be observed through the machine's transparent hoses. A cleaning agent can also be introduced to clean the inside of the transmission. The entire process usually takes two to three hours.
The Mahle ATX180 is an advanced machine for dynamic fluid exchange in automatic transmissions. It enables the complete fluid volume to be replaced safely and the system to be flushed with Liqui Moly 2512 cleaner. Flushing should be carried out as a preventive measure during every fluid change and when the first symptoms of improper transmission operation appear.
In summary, a dynamic fluid exchange combined with system flushing can improve transmission operation, but it will not repair a seriously damaged transmission. In such a case, diagnostics are required before the service is performed. Regular fluid changes help reduce the risk of a costly failure.
Labour for a dynamic fluid exchange: PLN 700-1,000.
Automatic transmission hydraulic filter: PLN 200-400.
Transmission cleaning agent: PLN 100.
ATF fluid: PLN 60-80 per litre, according to the vehicle specification. A typical exchange uses 8 to 16 litres, depending on the transmission capacity.
Customers using the dynamic fluid-exchange service can use a courtesy car free of charge for the duration of the service. The car must be returned clean and refuelled.
