1. Gather the necessary materials.
- New transmission fluid (check your owner's manual for the correct type and capacity)
- A transmission fluid pan
- A funnel
- A 3/8-inch ratchet and socket
2. Prepare the vehicle.
- Park the vehicle on a level surface.
- Turn off the engine and allow it to cool down.
- Engage the parking brake.
- Open the hood.
- Locate the transmission fluid dipstick.
- Use the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket to loosen the transmission pan bolts.
3. Drain the transmission fluid.
- Use a pliers to carefully pry the transmission dipstick tube out of the transmission.
- Position the transmission fluid pan under the transmission pan.
- Slowly remove the transmission pan bolts and allow the fluid to drain into the pan.
- Allow all of the fluid to drain out.
4. Replace the transmission pan.
- Replace the transmission pan gasket, if necessary.
- Reinstall the transmission pan bolts and tighten them in a crisscross pattern.
- Remove the funnel and top off the transmission fluid to the "full" mark on the dipstick.
- Replace the transmission dipstick.
5. Start the engine and run it for a few minutes.
- This will circulate the new transmission fluid throughout the transmission.
6. Recheck the transmission fluid level.
- If necessary, add more fluid to bring the level up to the "full" mark on the dipstick.
Remember, if you are uncomfortable performing your own maintenance, don't hesitate to contact an auto repair shop to have the transmission fluid flushed. Always refer to your specific vehicle's owner manual when taking on the repair yourself.
