However, if you're determined to do it yourself, understand the risks involved and proceed with extreme caution. Here's a *general* overview, but this is not a substitute for a professional repair manual specific to your 1995 Buick Century's transmission type:
What you'll likely need:
* A properly sized transmission pan: This will catch the old fluid when you drain the pan. You'll need to find the correct one for your specific transmission.
* New transmission filter: This is crucial and needs to be the correct one for your transmission type.
* New transmission fluid: The correct type and amount are specified in your owner's manual. Using the wrong fluid will damage your transmission.
* Jack and jack stands: Safety first! Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wrench(es): To remove the drain plug from the transmission pan and possibly the transmission filter.
* Torque wrench: Essential to tighten the drain plug and pan bolts to the correct specifications (found in your repair manual). Over-tightening can strip the threads.
* Drain pan: A large enough pan to hold the old fluid.
* Funnel: To add the new fluid.
* Rags or shop towels: To clean up any spills.
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* Repair manual specific to your 1995 Buick Century: This is absolutely essential. It will show you the exact location of the drain plug, fill plug, and filter, as well as the proper torque specifications and fluid type and quantity.
General Steps (again, consult your repair manual):
1. Consult your repair manual: Find the specific procedures and torque specifications for your transmission type (e.g., 3-speed automatic, 4-speed automatic). The year and model alone isn't enough.
2. Warm up the transmission: Run the engine until the transmission fluid is warm (but not excessively hot). This helps the fluid flow better.
3. Secure the vehicle: Safely raise the car using a jack and secure it on jack stands.
4. Locate the transmission pan: This is usually located on the bottom of the transmission.
5. Drain the old fluid: Carefully remove the drain plug, letting the fluid drain into your drain pan. Be prepared for a significant amount of fluid.
6. Remove the transmission pan: This may require removing several bolts. Be careful, as the pan will likely still contain some fluid.
7. Replace the filter: Install a new transmission filter, ensuring it's seated correctly.
8. Replace the transmission pan gasket: If the gasket is damaged, replace it with a new one.
9. Reinstall the transmission pan: Tighten the bolts to the correct torque specification.
10. Locate the transmission fill tube or dipstick: This is usually on the side or top of the transmission.
11. Add new transmission fluid: Carefully add the recommended amount of new fluid (refer to your manual).
12. Check the fluid level: Check the fluid level using the dipstick (if equipped). The level should be within the specified range. You might need to add more fluid in stages, checking the level after each addition.
13. Lower the vehicle: Carefully lower the car from the jack stands.
14. Run the engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the new fluid. Recheck the fluid level.
Important Considerations:
* Transmission type: The procedure will vary depending on whether you have a 3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission.
* Fluid type: Use only the type of transmission fluid specified in your owner's manual. Using the incorrect fluid can cause significant damage.
* Torque specifications: Tightening bolts to the wrong torque can damage the transmission.
Again, this is a very general overview. Improperly performing this task can cause serious and expensive transmission damage. Unless you have extensive experience working on transmissions and access to the correct tools and repair manual, taking your Buick Century to a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.
