What Does It Cost To Change Transmission Fluid? [2024 Guide] (2024)

Replace the spark plugs? Check.

Swap out the air filter? Done.

Change the transmission fluid? What?

This is one of those jobs that must never be overlooked. Luckily, it’s an inexpensive process, and if you have a basic understanding of mechanics, you can perform it in your own house.

What does it cost to alter transmission fluid? It depends on where you take it. At a mechanics shop or dealer, the price will likely range between $80 to $250.

However, if you’re willing and able to do it yourself, it should fall between $50-$100.

Thankfully, in this detailed guide, I will cover everything you need to know about transmission fluid, including what it is, how often it needs to be changed, and what you can expect to spend for the service.

Finally, I will provide a step-by-step guide on changing your transmission fluid at home.

Let us begin!

Table of ContentsShow

    What Is Transmission Fluid, And How Often Does It Need To Be Changed?

    What Does It Cost To Change Transmission Fluid? [2024 Guide] (1)

    Transmission fluid is similar to engine oil in that it provides lubrication for the transmission – but it also acts as a hydraulic fluid.

    It helps keep the transmission at a safe operating temp, facilitates gear shifts, and lubricates the moving parts.

    Most transmission fluids contain:

    • Lubricants
    • Corrosion inhibitors
    • Detergents
    • Dispersants
    • Surfactants
    • Anti-wear additives
    • Viscosity improvers/modifiers
    • Seal swell additives
    • Anti-foam additives
    • Anti-oxidation compounds
    • Cold flow improvers
    • High-temperature thickeners
    • Gasket conditioners
    • Petroleum dye

    When you are talking about a part that costs between $1,500-$3,500 to replace, does it really make sense to skip changing the one thing that keeps it working? Especially when the list of beneficial ingredients is as long as the one above.

    Most transmission fluids last between 30,000-60,000 miles, though some claim to last as long as 150,000 miles. The idea is not to see how long yours can last.

    It is to keep it as efficient as possible to protect the transmission.

    What are the signs that you need new transmission fluid? A few of the most common signs include:

    • Gear slipping
    • Inability to shift
    • Irregular shifts
    • Overheated transmission
    • Delayed gear shifts

    Now that you know how vital transmission fluid is and how often it needs to be changed. Let us now look at how much you might expect to spend on the service.

    How Much Does Changing Transmission Fluid Cost?

    What Does It Cost To Change Transmission Fluid? [2024 Guide] (2)

    The first factor influencing the cost is where you have it done – at a dealer or mechanic/service center. The next contributor is the make and model of your car. This determines the type of transmission fluid you need and how much.

    Most transmission fluids range from about $8-$20 per quart, and most cars take between 5-15 quarts ($40-$300).

    When you change your transmission fluid, you should also change the filter and sometimes the pan gasket. Filters range between $15-$30, and pan gaskets between $75-$150.

    Add these all together, and you get a total cost of between $130-$480, with the average price ranging from $80 to $250.

    If you have the service performed at a mechanics shop or service center, expect it to be towards the lower end. Otherwise, be ready to spend more at a dealer.

    If you’re willing to get your hands dirty, you can always change your transmission fluid for between $50-$100.

    Not sure how?

    Great news, we will cover that below.

    How To Change Your Transmission Fluid At Home

    What Does It Cost To Change Transmission Fluid? [2024 Guide] (3)

    Step #1: Jack The Front Of The Car Up

    Start by sliding a jack under the front of your car and positioning it so that it sits under the frame. Next, position a jack stand in place to ensure it’s secure.

    Step #2: Drain The Transmission Fluid Into A Drain Pan

    Locate the bottom of the transmission. Next to it should be the drain bolt, which you will loosen using a hex head.

    You may want to wear some rubber gloves because, once it’s loose, it will start pouring out. Finish by removing the bolt by hand.

    Step #3: Remove The Pan And Change The Filter

    If your vehicle is equipped with a filter, you’ll have to replace it with a new one.

    You will see multiple bolts around the pan. Remove them to free it so you can change the filter and return the pan to its original position.

    Step #4: Tighten The Drain Bolt And Refill

    Grab your hex head and tighten the drain bolt back in place. Then, you will need to determine how much fluid to add back in.

    You can do this by taking the drain pan (that is now full of dirty transmission fluid) and pouring it into empty quart bottles. The number you need is how much to add back in.

    The last step is to locate the transmission fluid cap and pour the new fluid in.

    If you prefer visual instructions, watch this video guide.

    Why Take The Risk? Instead, Maintain Your Transmission Fluid

    What Does It Cost To Change Transmission Fluid? [2024 Guide] (4)

    As we mentioned earlier, the cost to replace a transmission usually ranges from $1,500 to around $3,500.

    Which would you rather spend your money on, a new transmission or an $80-$250 fluid change every 30,000-60,000 miles?

    We would definitely choose the latter.

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    What Does It Cost To Change Transmission Fluid? [2024 Guide] (2024)

    FAQs

    What Does It Cost To Change Transmission Fluid? [2024 Guide]? ›

    The average cost for a Toyota Tacoma Transmission Fluid Change is between $130 and $148. Labor costs are estimated between $67 and $84 while parts are typically priced around $63.

    How much should a full transmission fluid change cost? ›

    TRANSMISSION FLUSH VS. EXCHANGE: AT A GLANCE
    Transmission FlushTransmission Fluid Exchange
    Transmission flush cost: Typically, $125 to $250Transmission fluid change cost: Typically, between $80 and $250; the cost varies depending on where the service is performed, what fluid is used, and other factors
    5 more rows

    How much is a transmission fluid change for a Toyota Tacoma? ›

    The average cost for a Toyota Tacoma Transmission Fluid Change is between $130 and $148. Labor costs are estimated between $67 and $84 while parts are typically priced around $63.

    How much is a transmission fluid change for a Toyota RAV4? ›

    The average cost for a Toyota RAV4 Transmission Fluid Change is between $182 and $214. Labor costs are estimated between $123 and $155 while parts are typically priced around $60.

    Can Jiffy Lube change transmission fluid? ›

    Changing transmission fluid yourself can be a messy, complicated process. Save time and energy with a transmission fluid exchange appointment at your nearest Jiffy Lube®. A trained technician will remove the used fluid and replace it with new transmission fluid that meets or exceeds your manufacturer's specifications.

    Why is it so expensive to change transmission fluid? ›

    Specialized equipment: Changing the transmission fluid requires specialized equipment, such as a lift or jack stands, a drain pan, and a fluid pump. This equipment can be expensive to purchase and maintain, which can drive up the cost of the service.

    How much does it cost to get transmission fluid drained and replaced? ›

    Prices can vary widely, but in general, a transmission fluid change would be $150-175 and for a transmission fluid flush, expect to pay around $165-$290. Of course, that's only an estimate. If your fluid is in particularly poor condition (through neglect or contamination), your bill could be higher.

    Does Toyota recommend transmission fluid change or flush? ›

    Regularly changing your Toyota's transmission fluid is essential for ensuring optimal performance and extending the lifespan of your vehicle's transmission system. Over time, transmission fluid can break down and become contaminated with debris, leading to decreased efficiency and potential damage.

    What is the difference between a transmission flush and drain and fill? ›

    With a flush, all the old fluid is removed by a flush machine and replaced with new fluid, allowing for optimal transmission performance. A fluid change is a drain-and-refill, with some old fluid remains in the transmission after the change, which can contaminate the new fluid — and diminish performance.

    How often should Toyota transmission fluid be changed? ›

    If you drive manual, most manufacturers will recommend changing your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. If you have automatic, you can typically boost that range up to 60,000 to 100,000 miles. There's no harm in changing your fluid early.

    Is it cheaper to change transmission fluid yourself? ›

    Again, your transmission fluid change cost will vary depending on vehicle size, who performs the service and filter & gasket cost. If you do it yourself on a small vehicle, it'll cost $50-$75.

    When should I change the transmission fluid in my Toyota Rav 4? ›

    Toyota RAV4 transmission fluid changes are exceedingly fundamental to keep your vehicle's transmission agreeable and lubricated. If you don't routinely change your fluids at least every 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your Toyota RAV4 transmission will slip.

    How many quarts of transmission fluid does a Toyota RAV4 take? ›

    3.5- 3.75 qts of ATF and replaced with Toyota brand ATF fluid that I purchased yesterday at the Portland OR Toyota dealership.

    What is the downside of transmission flush? ›

    Flush machines, unless meticulously cleaned out between different vehicles, can also pump a small amount of the wrong fluid into your transmission. Even if there's only a small chance of your transmission being damaged by a flush machine, why risk it?

    How many years does transmission fluid last? ›

    In the past, the factory-recommended interval for changing the automatic transmission fluid was typically between 30,000 and 100,000 miles, but some newer vehicles have what's referred to as “lifetime fluid.” However, there's some question as to whether never changing the transmission fluid may shorten that “lifetime.” ...

    Is a transmission flush good or bad? ›

    Routine transmission flushes are especially important if your car uses an automatic transmission. They can help prevent your transmission's internal hydraulic lines from clogging and protect the inner seals, which can lessen the likelihood of transmission fluid leaks.

    Is it worth getting transmission fluid change? ›

    As it becomes dirty and clogged with debris, it's ability to keep your transmission lubricated and help transfer power will be compromised. Changing your transmission fluid is an economical way to keep your systems at the top of their game and avoid complex, costly repairs.

    Is it worth doing a transmission fluid change? ›

    It's essential for accelerating, maintaining your speed, and managing your drive. To take care of your transmission, you should have your transmission fluid flushed and replaced regularly.

    Are transmission flushes worth it? ›

    Routine transmission flushes are especially important if your car uses an automatic transmission. They can help prevent your transmission's internal hydraulic lines from clogging and protect the inner seals, which can lessen the likelihood of transmission fluid leaks.

    Will my car run better with a transmission fluid change? ›

    The simple answer is “yes,” but there are a few caveats to that affirmative answer. Because changing your transmission fluid with a flush makes the transmission system run better, you'll often experience improved fuel economy as a result as well.

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