Should i change transmission fluid?

[nico27004]

I have a 05 sebring with 141k. I bought it recently. It has been well maintained. I am curious about the transmission fluid. It shifts fine. The fluid doesnt smell burny but is a brownish color. Should i change it at this point or just leave it alone?

Topic

[Dana Harripersad]

Don’t mind me; forum newbie here…

According to all the information I can find via EricTheCarGuy, ChrisFix, and the like, transmission fluid is meant to be a light pink or red. From what I’ve gathered from those sources, nico, and from what you’ve described of your car’s state, the color you’re dealing with indicates generally old fluid.

That being said, flush it out entirely, or at the least get it partially changed (alongside the transmission fluid filter, if one exists for that model). I believe your transmission will thank you.

[Wallace Brake]

When buying a second hand vehicle I always change all the fluids so that I know where I stand WRT maintenance. For the transmission you should completely drain the fluid and replace it. Run the engine for a few minutes then drain it completely again and replace the fluid a second time. Following that you should drive the vehicle, cycling through all gears then drain and replace the fluid for the final time. This is generally referred to as the 3 X 3 method used by a lot of DIYs. It sounds expensive but is a proven method to ensure you don’t mess up your tranny. The reason this is done is because dirt and old particulate from the old fluid can come out of suspension if mixed with new fluid. The 3 X 3 method ensures all old fluid and particles are removed preventing them from clogging the tiny passages in your transmission.

[Richard Kirshy]

Suggest you look at the recommended maintenance schedule concern transmission fluid and filter changes.
Changing transmission fluid & filter on a vehicle that has never had it done prior can be something of a double edged sword.

[nico27004]

The fluid it’s self doesn’t look too bad and still has a sweet smell. For the mileage I would have assumed it would be safe. I have changed it on several others but never on one with this many miles. The fluid isn’t pink but on a towel is a light brown

[Richard Kirshy]

Considering the color you described.
May not be a bad idea to change the fluid and filter.
From what I see you will need to drop the transmission pan no matter what.
So a gasket will also be needed.

[nico27004]

I was considering dropping the pan or sucking the fluid out through dipstick and changing the filter later.

[Author]

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