Automatic Transmission Fluid Change | Book an Automatic Transmission Fluid Change in Maidstone| 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 Maidstone

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

Station Garage Paddock Wood Limited

5.0/5

We’ve been here for over 25 years and have earned a reputation as a reliable and trustworthy, local garage providing an extensive range of car repairs and services. With a modern workshop and a team of talented technicians, we’re the obvious choice in Paddock Wood, Tonbridge, for MOT testing, warranty and post-warranty car servicing, diagnostic testing and pretty much any mechanical repairs.

Hop Pocket Lane, Paddock Wood, Tonbridge, TN126DQ

Pdrservices

5.0/5

we are a small independent garage located in teynham lynsted we offer all aspects of work from gearbox repairs auto and manual to full servicing and repair plus mots

Unit 4, Vicarage Farm Trading Estate, Teynham, ME90RL

Mach 1 Automotive LTD

4.9/5

We are a small family run business and 100% committed to customer satisfaction. We aim to provide a personal and high-quality service. We will back up all our work with a one year parts and three months labour warranty. Please contact us for more information on the services we can provide. We are fully insured. If you require a service and your car is still covered by a manufacturers warranty we will use original equipment parts and correct specification oil. Because we are VAT registered your warranty will remain fully protected. If your vehicle is not under warranty, we can use high quality aftermarket parts which will save you money. All repairs come with a twelve months PARTS WARRANTY on new parts (please note that we are unable to fit customer supplied parts). We can also arrange your MOT at an independent test centre. Good, reliable and honest mechanics are hard to find, we will always have your best interests at heart.

Hall Wood Business Park, North Dane Way, Chatham, ME58YE

autotrend motor services limited

4.7/5

Autotrend Motor Services offers Car & Light Commercial Repairs, MOT Testing (Class 4 and Class 7), Welding, Air Conditioning, Servicing, Clutches, Tracking and Diagnostics. Our garage is based in Chatham, Medway, Kent. Autotrend Motor Services have been trading for over 30 years so you can guarantee your vehicle is serviced and repaired to a high standard whilst still offering great value for money to all of our customers. We carry out high quality vehicle servicing, that now due to block exemption will not invalidate your manufacturers warranty. Previously motorists were required to have their vehicle serviced and repaired at the 'main dealer', so as not to invalidate their warranty. The EC Block Exemption Regulation 1400/2002 (October 2003) allows motorists more flexibility in selecting where they get their vehicle serviced. Thanks to this legislation, maintenance and service work no longer has to be carried out by the' main dealer' providing the garage uses Original Equipment (Matching Quality) parts and that the garage follow the manufacturer's service schedules whilst keeping a record. The Block Exemption Regulation (BER) covers service and maintenance during the warranty period and prohibits vehicle manufacturers’ warranties from including conditions that require: 1/ All normal maintenance be provided within the vehicle manufacturer’s network 2/ All parts used must be the manufacturer’s original spare parts Therefore we can provide customers with savings of up to 60% on their car service and repairs! We also carry out a wide range of vehicle repairs from wiper blades to major engine repairs and everything in between.inc hybrid and electric vehicles

101-109, Beacon Road, Chatham, ME57BP

Malling Repair Services

4.6/5

Malling Repair Services were established in 1982. We offer a wide range of services to suit all your motoring needs - air con re-gas and service, full or intermediate service, diagnostics, welding, tyres, exhausts, brakes and suspension and MOT's for all vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes. With our dedicated friendly team of professionals we currently have over 100 years of combined experience and knowledge coupled with a company that has been established since 1982. When you bring your vehicle to our garage we are sure that you will be pleasantly surprised with our prompt and courteous service at very competitive rates. In our efforts to always improve our service and keep as up to date as possible with current legislation we enrol all staff members on various training courses. So far we have achieved the following accreditations. ISO9001 quality assurance and control procedures PAS43. Quality control on vehicle recovery meeting the EU standards PAS80 quality control and assurance on customer care and car servicing NHS17a/b quality control and traffic management procedures AC1 refrigerant handling for air conditioning These are just some of the accreditations we have achieved in our efforts to be the best at what we do.

Malling Repair Services Ltd, 34-38 Foster Street, Maidstone, ME15 6NH

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.