Looking for Dual Clutch transmission components outside of New Zealand? Transmission Flush Services In Auckland
The practice of transmission flushing frequently sparks a whirlwind of contrasting views and heated debate.
The question remains: is transmission flushing a necessary servicing procedure or an overstated ritual?
What Is a Transmission Flush?
A transmission flush is a comprehensive process that substitutes old transmission fluid with new fluid, during which fluid is pumped through the transmission to clear the system of grime and debris.
The procedure involves utilising a machine to clear out all the old transmission fluid and contaminants. Subsequently, clean fluid is pumped back into the system and flushed through. This operation is distinct from a transmission fluid change, which simply drains the old fluid and then tops up the transmission.
What Is the Purpose of a Transmission Flush?
The primary purpose of a transmission flush is to clear out old fluid, dirt and debris from the transmission which won’t come out with a standard oil change.
Over time, transmission fluid can degrade, and microscopic debris can accumulate, restricting the fluid flow and thereby impairing the performance of the transmission system.
Is Transmission Flushing Really the Best Option?
While transmission flushing was a popular part of vehicle maintenance, especially on older cars, it’s vital to assess its potential disadvantages and contemplate whether it is truly necessary for modern vehicles.
Transmission flushing is an outdated technique and isn’t always the best approach, especially with modern transmissions.
These transmissions have small and intricate passages and sensitive electronic parts inside them that don’t respond well to the outside pressure of some machines helping to push fluid through them.
On top of that, a transmission flush will force dirty fluid through the transmission, and this leaves behind a filter that will have done a lot of work in a very short amount of time during the flushing process. This means you now need to replace the filter again after the flush, adding to the cost.
Generally speaking, it works out better and less costly to have a complete transmission service carried out instead. This will involve replacing the filter, cleaning any accessible parts, and replacing all the oil with fresh oil. The added benefit is you don’t force any dirty oil through the transmission like with a flush.
Furthermore, some manufacturers may not advocate transmission flushing for their vehicles. Carrying out this procedure against the manufacturer’s advice could invalidate your warranty. Therefore, always consult the vehicle’s manual or a trusted mechanic before deciding on a flush.
Additionally, the cost of transmission flushing can be significantly higher than a traditional fluid change. This could be a deterrent for vehicle owners on a tight budget.
How Much Does a Transmission Flush Cost?
A transmission flush done correctly will cost you more than a normal transmission service.
The reason why is because in order for a transmission flush to be performed correctly, you will need to pump through more fluid than the transmission typically takes, and you should use a new filter at the beginning of the flush and replace it with another new filter once the flush is complete.
It also takes the same amount of time, if not longer, than a transmission service to perform.
Is Automatic Transmission Flushing a Good Idea on Modern Cars?
Typically speaking the answer is no, especially on performance cars with more complex transmissions.
These new transmissions are much more sensitive than transmissions of the past where different fluids could be used to get different results, or even bandaid over a worn set of clutches. The same can’t be done today.
Using the correct fluid is super critical now, and due to the intricate designs and passages of these transmissions, flushing is usually not recommended. Also knowing whether or not to change adaptions can have a huge impact on modern transmission drivability.
Overall, modern transmissions require much more care and accuracy, and as such, the process of transmission flushing is mostly redundant and should be avoided.
So What Should You Do Instead?
Carrying out a proper automatic transmission service is typically the best approach.
This is something we do for performance cars that come into our shop, ensuring the fluid is changed with high quality OEM or equivalent fluid, as well as a high quality filter replacement and cleaning of accessible parts.
If this service is done at the advised intervals, you will have no need for a transmission flush.
If you need to get your transmission serviced, speak to us today by clicking the button below.
Automatic Transmission Service Costs
DCT Transmission Service
From $899
- Scan vehicle for any fault codes to ensure the sensors and pressures are correct
- Drain transmission oil, remove sump and filters
- Replace filters and clean all components
- Refit all components with a new genuine pan gasket
- Fill transmission with DMS high performance transmission fluid
- Quality test drive
- Optional clutch/gear calibration
Automatic Transmission Service
From $419
- Scan vehicle for any fault codes to ensure the sensors and pressures are correct
- Drain transmission oil and remove filter
- Replace filter and clean all components
- Fill transmission with DMS high performance transmission fluid
- Quality test drive
- Optional clutch/gear calibration & adaption drive
Porsche PDK Transmission Service
From $1499
- Scan vehicle for any fault codes to ensure the sensors and pressures are correct
- Drain transmission oil, remove sump with filter
- Replace sump and filter and clean all components
- Fill transmission with DMS high performance transmission fluid
- Perform clutch/gear calibration
- Quality test drive
DSG Transmission Service
From $419
- Scan vehicle for any fault codes to ensure the sensors and pressures are correct
- Drain transmission oil and remove filter
- Replace filter and clean all components
- Fill transmission with DMS high performance transmission fluid
- Quality test drive
- Optional clutch/gear calibration & adaption drive
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