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 Scarborough

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

Engine Management Services

4.8/5

Engine Management services offer a friendly, approachable and high quality service with more than 40 years’ experience in the motor trade. We are the only RAC approved garage with accredited IMI level 4 staff in Hybrid and Electric diagnosis, service, and repair of cars in the area. We are also authorised to carry out all RAC warranty repairs for all cars. If you have a Hybrid/Electric vehicle, bring your car to Engine Management Services where you know the engineers are qualified, have the correct equipment including full backup and technical help from manufactures master technical engineers and knowledge to repair your vehicle. Engine Management also offers all repairs and servicing on petrol and diesel vehicles, going that extra mile for you!
53 Lancaster Rd, Carnaby, Bridlington, YO153QY

Campbells Garage

4.7/5

We are a 3rd generation family run business that has been trading for the last 25 years we do all major and minor garage repairs from tyres and exhausts to engine rebuilds. With over 110 years of combined experience between our 6 mechanics/technicians we are certainly one of the most experienced garages in the area. We offer dealer level services and diagnostics but at a fraction of the price giving you genuine value for money when you come to us. With all the latest diagnostic equipment and tuning tools, we can diagnose, service and repair 99% of all cars and light commercials no matter the model or make. we also offer specialty engine remapping services on a wide range of vehicles. For your convenience we can provide a courtesy car (due to availability) and also collection and delivery of your vehicle if you’re in the local area (up to about 5 miles) to make the process of having your vehicle repaired as easy and stress free as possible.
103 Redcar Road, Marske, Redcar, TS116HU

Londesborough Motor Services

4.7/5

Londesborough Motor Services is a locally owned family run business which has been established for over 30 years. We offer everything for the motorist whether you are a private car owner or operate light to medium commercial vehicles. We also MOT Minibuses and Motor homes. As a member of the Retail Motor Industry Federation we offer all of our customers a guarantee they will receive the highest standards of service. Our team are all fully qualified and our modern workshop is equipped with the latest state of the art equipment. We are proud to have been inspected and certified by the RAC and the AA. We are also part of Trust My Garage. Customer care and satisfaction is our priority, we have a child friendly customer waiting area, a reception area, ample parking and we are also just a short walk to town. While you wait service with 1000's of parts in stock and ready to fit. Great prices on Tyres, exhausts and batteries. Free vehicle health checks.
66 Londesborough Road, Scarborough, YO125AF

Gladstone tyres & autocare

4.5/5

Gladstone Garage is a family run business located in York that offers a range of MOT, car servicing, garage services and quality tyres including mobile tyre fitting for cars and vans in York. The technicians at Gladstone tyres & autocare have over 75 Years of experience and are happy to help you out whether you require welding or a simple bulb replacing. We pride ourselves on customer satisfaction and quality services. That's why we should be your first choice for a local garage in York for tyres, MOT, servicing and repairs. Please get in contact to see how we can help!!
Unit 1B, Outgang Lane, York, YO195UP

EGL Autos

4.5/5

Welcome to EGL Autos, where car problems meet swift solutions! Don’t risk it, we can fix it! We're proud to be RAC and Good Garage Guide Approved, ensuring top-notch service every time. As a family-run we offer low rates and quick turnaround times. Tired of waiting for weeks with another garage? We guarantee to see you the same day, working to your timetable, not ours! Plus, with one of the only 5-ton extendable lifts in York, we can handle 4x4s, motorhomes, and large vans with ease. And when it comes to our mechanic team, you're in expert hands! Led by Workshop Manager Mark, boasting over 25 years of invaluable experience, our squad includes Connor, the Level 3 mechanic and Audi specialist, along with Gaz, a skilled Level 2 mechanic with 15 years of hands-on expertise. But that's not all! Enjoy 24/7 breakdown recovery, a free diagnosis with every full recovery to the workshop, and a complimentary full health check—it's a no-brainer! EGL Autos—Call York 86 85 67 or pop into Unit 1 on Keswick Way, Huntington.
Strensall Autos, Sheriff Hutton Road, Strensall, YO325XH

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.