Automatic Transmission Fluid Change | Book an Automatic Transmission Fluid Change for your BMW

Why choose the RAC for an automatic transmission fluid top-up?

At the RAC, we've got over 125 years' experience helping UK drivers. We have the skills and knowledge to keep your vehicle running. We'll give you results you can rely on at a price you can afford.

Close up of an RAC Mobile Mechanic underneath a car

Book an automatic transmission fluid replacement

To help make sure you’re getting smooth gear shifts and a long transmission life you need to maintain your automatic transmission fluid. So when you need to, make sure you have that old fluid drained and refilled at an RAC Approved Garage.

Quality work

Any work done will meet the high standards set by the RAC.

Exceptional customer service

We’re friendly, straightforward and jargon-free

Book a diagnostic

A mechanic will check your car for faults and talk you through any repairs you might need. There are various ways to check for faults, which could include a physical examination or plugging in to check your car’s onboard engine management system.

Diagnostic check

We’ll look for any mechanical or electrical problems. If we need to, we’ll also check your car’s onboard engine management system. Depending on your car and issue, this will usually include: – Engine – Power steering – Brakes – Transmission – Exhaust system – Fuel injection system – Cooling system and air flow – Sensors

And it’s not just automatic transmission fluid replacements that we can do for your BMW

RAC Approved Garages offer MOTs and services. Our professional mechanics have the expertise and experience to make sure your vehicle is operating safely and efficiently – results you can rely on at a price you can afford.

Try one of our RAC Approved Garages

View all garages

IN'n'OUT Autocentres Bristol

4.2/5

At IN’n’OUT Autocentres we offer fixed prices MOTs and Servicing for any make and model of car with no hidden extras. We are proud to be a ‘Which? Trusted Trader’ so we are really a garage you can trust. We also have a 5 Star Trustpilot reviews rating. We provide OEM parts and 12 months warranty on all parts and servicing. We only use premium Castrol oils in all servicing. Our services are all completed ‘while-u-wait’ so you have never have the inconvenience of losing your car for the day. You can watch your car as it is being worked on through the viewing window or sit back and relax in our clean and comfortable customer lounges with FREE Wi-Fi and coffee and read the latest magazines. Check out our latest reviews and BOOK NOW!!

In-N-Out Autocentres, Cribbs Causeway, Bristol, BS10 7UD

Lushington Motors Ltd

4.8/5

Lushington Motors are an established local independent family run garage and are proud to be members of the LKQ-ECP 1 Tec Network. For your added peace of mind, we are members of the Motor Ombudsman service which is approved by The Trading Standards Institute. We are also members of the Independant Garage Association (IGA) and Trust My Garage network. In short, we are a local garage you can trust offering you the support and service guarantees of a national network, giving you complete peace of mind. We cover Hailsham, Polegate and surrounding Eastbourne area. We will only supply and fit quality O.E parts, so parts with the same quality, that were originally fitted to your vehicle at the factory. For added piece of mind we only use Shell engine oil.

Unit 10 Westham Business Park, Eastbourne Road, Westham, BN24 5NP

LDN AUTO SERVICES LTD

4.0/5

Welcome to LDN Auto Services, we take pride in offering a wide range of services to cater to all your vehicle repair needs. From basic maintenance tasks such as oil changes and brake inspections to more complex repairs like engine overhauls and transmission replacements, our team of skilled technicians is here to ensure that your vehicle is running smoothly and efficiently. Trust LDN Auto Services for all your automotive needsHighly experienced technicians with expertise in a wide range of vehicles - RAC Approved Garage - State-of-the-art equipment to diagnose and repair vehicle issues efficiently - Competitive pricing and transparent billing for quality service

Unit 9, Harrison Drive, Braintree, CM71DE

T & K Motors

4.9/5

T&K Motors have been established for more than 30 years and are a helpful friendly garage, we carry out MOT’s, servicing and mechanical repairs on all makes and models of vehicles. We pride ourselves on offering main dealer quality of work, at independent prices, whilst ensuring that your warranty remains intact by using genuine or manufacturer approved parts, and are usually able to save you over 60% in price comparison. Our mechanics are fully qualified with many years of experience behind them in the motor industry, who take great pride in their work. Our services include the following; • All makes serviced to manufacturer's specification • MOT VOSA class 4 and 7 Car and Light Commercial • Air Conditioning re-charge and leak testing • Batteries/Alternators checked and replaced • Brakes pads and discs, brake fluid changes • Clutch replacement and repair • Cylinder Head repairs • Engine management light diagnostics • Exhausts repaired and replaced • Free vehicle health check • Fuel injection diagnostic/repair • Oil and filter changes • Suspension spring replacement specialists • Timing belts and water pump replacement • Tyres fitted, balanced and aligned • Van servicing and repairs • Free Vehicle diagnostic checks • Welding repairs to MOT standard • Warning lights diagnosed and reset * Car Service, Van Service, Commercial vehicle service

47-53 Green Street, Ayr, KA88BQ

D&A Autos

5.0/5

D&A Autos of Witney offer an independent personal service backed up by over 40 years experience. Although we are well known as Volvo specialists within the Oxford/Witney area, we also deal with all other makes of cars. Offering a full service from MOT/Repairs to selling carefully selected used cars. Our staff are hand picked and are also fully skilled. We feel we can offer you a service that is not only personal but highly skillful and professional. We have a good modern workshop with 4 bays fitted out by ourselves, and have daily deliveries from most franchises to cater for all makes. We also carry out diagnostic work and specialist work for other garages in the Witney/Oxford area and welcome trade enquiries.

154 Newland Industrial Estate, Witney, OX28 3JH

Frequently asked questions about automatic transmission fluid change

How often should automatic transmission fluid be changed?

Automatic transmission fluid should be changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. However, always check your vehicle’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendation. Your driving habits and the conditions you drive in will affect how quickly your fluid degrades. Regular checks and following the manufacturer’s guidelines will help to make sure your transmission stays in good condition.

Why do people say never change transmission fluid?

Some people believe that changing old transmission fluid can cause issues, especially in high-mileage vehicles. This myth stems from the fact that when automatic transmission fluid is changed, the new fluid can sometimes dislodge debris, causing problems. However, this is usually due to debris build-up.

What happens if you don’t change automatic transmission fluid?

If you don’t change the automatic transmission fluid, it can become contaminated and lose its effectiveness, leading to transmission wear and potential failure. Over time, dirty automatic transmission fluid can cause increased friction, overheating, and significant transmission damage. Regular changes will help you avoid costly repairs and keep the transmission running smoothly.

How do I know that the automatic transmission fluid has been changed recently?

Fresh automatic transmission fluid is bright red and clear. If your fluid looks clean and smells fresh, it’s been changed recently. You can also check the service records for confirmation. If in doubt, ask your mechanic to check.

What are the signs that I need an automatic transmission flush?

Signs that you might need a transmission flush include:

Slipping gears: The transmission struggles to stay in gear.
Delayed gear engagement: There’s a noticeable delay when shifting gears.
Overheating: The transmission becomes excessively hot.
Unusual noises: Grinding or whining sounds from the transmission.
Dirty fluid: The automatic transmission fluid is dark or discoloured.

A flush can help remove contaminants and restore the fluid’s effectiveness.

Can I change the automatic transmission fluid myself?

It’s often best to have a professional do it. The process can be messy and requires proper disposal of old fluid. Professional services also include checks and diagnostics to ensure everything is working.

What’s the difference between transmission fluid and gearbox oil?

Transmission fluid is used in automatic transmissions, while gearbox oil is used in manual transmissions. They’re made to do different jobs, so they’re not interchangeable. Automatic transmission fluid is designed for the hydraulic and cooling needs of automatic transmissions, while gearbox oil provides the necessary lubrication for manual transmissions.

What is an automatic transmission flush?

An automatic transmission flush is a service where all the old automatic transmission fluid is removed, and new fluid is added. It helps remove contaminants and old fluid that might be stuck in the transmission. It’s more thorough than a simple fluid change and can help restore the transmission’s performance.

Is an automatic transmission fluid change necessary?

Yes, changing the automatic transmission fluid is necessary to keep your vehicle’s transmission running well. Over time, the fluid degrades and becomes less effective, leading to potential transmission problems. Regular changes help the transmission run smoothly and can prevent costly repairs down the line.

How can I extend the life of my automatic transmission fluid?

To extend the life of your automatic transmission fluid:

Regular maintenance: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for fluid changes.
Avoid excessive heat: Don’t overload your vehicle or tow heavy loads when you don’t have to.
Check for leaks: Regularly inspect your vehicle for fluid leaks.
Smooth driving: Avoid aggressive driving habits that can overheat the transmission.

Proper care and regular upkeep can significantly extend the life of your automatic transmission fluid and transmission.

How long does an automatic transmission fluid change take?

An automatic transmission fluid change will typically take about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the vehicle and the service provider. This includes draining the old fluid, replacing the filter (if necessary), and refilling with new fluid. If more services or diagnostics are needed, it could take longer.

What should I do if my transmission fluid is low?

If your transmission fluid is low:

Check for leaks: Look for any visible leaks under the car.
Top up the fluid: Use the right type of fluid for your vehicle.
Monitor the fluid level: Regularly check the fluid level to make sure it stays within the recommended range.
Consult a mechanic: If the fluid level continues to drop speak to a mechanic so that they can inspect and fix any issues.