Automatic Transmission Fluid Change | Book an Automatic Transmission Fluid Change in Hereford| RAC

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 do in Hereford

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

Trade N Save Centre

5.0/5

With over 25 years used car and Renault experience, Rob Thomas leads the team at Gloucester’s Independent Renault Specialists ‘Trade ‘n’ Save’. His focus on customer satisfaction reflects right through all members of staff and that is exactly how this business functions as a ‘Team’. Rob ran one of the biggest Renault dealerships in the south west before founding the ‘Trade ‘n’ Save’ Centre in April 2001 and since then he and his team have worked tirelessly together to make the ‘Trade ‘n’ Save’ Centre the biggest and most experienced Renault Specialist in the county.

Mercia Road, Gloucester, GL12SQ

Swift Fit Ltd

4.7/5

Welcome to Swiftfit one of Gloucestershire's leading independent garages for over 25 years. We are local, serving Gloucester and the surrounding area. Our garage always endeavors to give the best service and value for money possible. We pride ourselves on going that extra mile for every customer.

10 Off Cole Avenue, Shepherd Rd, Gloucester, GL25EL

HiQ CLOSED3

4.2/5

We stock a huge range of car, 4x4 and specialist tyres from leading brands such as Goodyear, Dunlop and Sava, along with many more leading manufacturers, and hundreds of quality budget tyres. With so much to choose from, we'll make sure you get exactly what you need - at an extremely competitive price. Here at HiQ Easy Tyre & Autocentres we do a lot more than just tyres, we can provide MOTs and servicing. We also cover many other regular maintenance and repair services to help keep your car running smoothly. From simply checking or changing batteries to fitting new exhausts or brakes, our expert technicians will take care of it.

Service Station, Droitwich Road, Worcester, WR3 7JF

T L Automotive Services Ltd

4.2/5

Here at TL Automotive we are a friendly and trusted independent garage dedicated to providing sensational service to you and your vehicle. We are here to build solid and trusting customer relationships based on providing a truly excellent service with great value. We want to prove to you that we will go the 'extra mile' to gain your custom and, more importantly, retain it.

Llanthony Industrial Estate, Llanthony Road, Gloucester, GL25HL

BH Motors

4.0/5

BH Motors is the aftersales arm of the Brookhire vehicle rental company, which is itself part of the Hills Automotive Group. Based in Malvern for over 30 years, we are a family-run business proud of our excellent reputation among drivers all over Worcestershire. We are also the only retailer in the county to provide a specialised aftersales service for cars from the low-cost Malaysian manufacturer, Perodua. Assiduous attention to detail and serving our customers in a friendly yet professional manner are what keeps our business running smoothly. The salespeople, technicians and administrative staff at BH Motors constantly strive to learn every aspect of their craft, enabling them to provide a better, quicker service for less. Our modern, purpose-built servicing facilities help our aftersales team to make repairs or maintenance to your vehicle a swift and painless process.

Spring Lane South, Malvern, WR14 1AT

Frequently asked questions on 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.