Is there a difference between getting my transmission fluid changed and getting a transmission flush???

I have a 2003 Suzuki Aerio with 100k, and noticed that my transmission fluid is getting pretty black and starting to smell funny. I was told that I need to have the fluid changed, and also my manual recommends it around this mileage.

I've called several places around town and have been quoted $130-$170 by folks who told me they would change it and change the filter and a couple of other things (although most didn't have the filter for my car in stock).

Then there's also the magical "Transmission flush machine" places that are more in the $80 range.

Is there are difference between the two, and should I be wary of the people with the "transmission flushers?"

Being a young, female car-owner, I'm reluctant to take advice from those who stand to profit by it. Any suggestions?

-Treloni

Do not flush.

Have them change the filter and replace the fluid. That's it. Period.

agreed - i think most manufacturers even state not to flush because it can do more harm than good. not sure if your owners manual specifies or not. you could call the dealer service department and pose the question (although it's possible they could also try to sell you the service...)


drain and refill only, for me.

^^^

What everyone else says.
Suzuki Motors NA does NOT recommend Transmission flushes.

Regardless of what the dealer says, because they can hook up a flush machine and walk away. Ask for a drain and refill. Change filter if possible. Some transaxle pans are vertical and you cannot change the filter without trans. removal.

On edit, it looks like the filter cannot be serviced. Its a 10mm hex to drain the fluid and usually the refill is 3.5 qts.

[This message has been edited by 1agswitchin4lanes (edited 3/18/2009 3:07p).]

ust double-checked my transmission fluid. The fluid isn't really BLACK, just dark. It smells a little bit, but isn't strong.

I guess what I'm mostly getting at is would it be unwise to continue with my Spring Break plans to travel to Dallas this afternoon and have someone there take a look at it tomorrow while I'm there? Would a 200-400 mile trip put me at risk of ruining my transmission at this point?

-Treloni

drain and fill only. NO FLUSH.

that sounds very expensive for a fill and filter.

Just drive it, it ain't gonna break down on you if it's not slipping or shifting incorrectly. Find out the recommended fluid change interval in the manual and get it done somewhere near there. Fluid change and filter.

auto fluid will smell weird, naturally. If it smells "fishy" it's burnt and needs replacing.

You should be fine for the 200-400 mile trip.

Thanks!

Good ATF should be reddish pink and smell like burnt chestnuts.

Make the trip, change fluid when you get back.

ATF is the main protectant in a transmission. Heat kills the fluid and prevents it from doing its job correctly.

As I said before, theres no filter that can be serviced. I'd just drain it and refill. If you can change your oil, you can replace the Transmission fluid.

If you plan on keeping this vehicle for many more miles, I may suggest that you start draining and refilling the fluid (its only around 3.5 qts) every 30,000 miles or so, that way you are replenishing the additives in the fluid that break down over time.

As far as brand of fluid, Dexron/Mercon III is the correct fluid used in that Transmission. I usually buy the house brand from Oreillys and I have had NO issues with the fluid at all. Just like House Brand Coolant (they even carry all colors all brands coolant now).

12-15 bucks every 30,000 miles for ATF is a lot less expensive than a few thousand for a transaxle rebuild.