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.

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

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 Norwich

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

LS Motor Repairs

4.8/5

LS Motor Repairs are an established local independent garage and are proud to be members of Autofirst Network – a nationwide network of independent garages operating to the Network’s 6 core values of Capability, Consistency, Care, Clarity, Cost Effectiveness and Customer Focus. For your added peace of mind we are members of the Motor Ombudsman service which is approved by The Trading Standards Institute. 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.
Unit 8-9 Suffolk Road, Gorleston-On-Sea, Great Yarmouth, NR310LN

IN'n'OUT Autocentres Norwich

4.5/5

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!!
545 Hall Road, Norwich, NR46NQ

Motorbitz

4.5/5

Welcome to Motor Bitz Based in Besthorpe near Attleborough we are a family run MOT/Service & Repair centre and can take care of all your motoring needs. Whether you are looking for an MOT, part worn tyres, servicing, engine diagnostic or perhaps a recovery service we can help. We can also take care of repairs and welding work. Our Team Roger: Roger has worked within the motor trade for 30 years and has a passion for classic fords and performance vehicles. We call him the 'grease monkey' as he is never happier than to be head to toe in oil. Roger carries out most of the heavy work including commercial, engine swaps, clutches and gearboxes. Simon: Simon is a qualified MOT tester, with a passion for classic and American vehicles. With his extensive experience of over 42 years in the motor trade industry - Simon is a real asset to the company. Customer relations is his speciality. Neil: Neil is a qualified MOT tester and is also a qualified HGV fitter. Neil has an interest in all vehicles, but his passion is in classic cars, bikes and commercials. Neil is the master of all things delicate often carrying out some of our more technical work and a great welder too!
Unit 3, Silver Street, Besthorpe, Attleborough, NR172LD

Repps Garage

4.4/5

Welcome to Repps Garage, located just outside of Great Yarmouth, established over 30 years, we are experts in car servicing, repairs and MOT testing. We have a dedicated team of highly trained Vehicle Technicians possessing a combined industry experience of over 70 years. There are no hidden costs at Repps Garage - everything is explained upfront with your approval before commencing any work. - We offer big savings on dealer prices - Highly experienced and qualified Technicians - 12 months or 12,000 mile warranty on all work - Use of the latest technology and equipment - Honest and accurate advice - Genuine Manufacturers or Original Equipment Matching (OEM) parts - High quality oils & lubrications - Free courtesy cars available - Free local collection and delivery service. Terms and conditions apply.
Repps Garage, High Road, Repps With Bastwick, NR29 5JH

Spencers MOT and Service Centre Ltd

4.1/5

Our team at Spencer’s MOT and Service Centre based in Rackheath, Norwich are on hand six days a week. The team at Spencer’s MOT and Service Centre can answer any questions or queries you have about your vehicle. To keep your car running at a premium call us onand book your car in. If you are concerned about a noise or dashboard light, our technicians are here to help. They can take a look at your vehicle, diagnose any problems and are specially trained to carry out any necessary repairs. This includes clutch repairs and replacements, cambelt repairs and replacements, exhausts, gearboxes as well as tyre changes and wheel alignments. Spencer’s MOT and Service Centre’s aim is to become one of the leading garages in Norwich with a high standard of work whilst delivering an exceptional customer experience. We are able to accept card payments, cheque and cash and can offer accounts to trade customers.
Unit 36, Mackintosh Road, Rackheath Trading Estate, Norwich, NR136LJ

Frequently asked questions on automatic transmission fluid change

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.