Before we discuss a typical transmission flush cost, it’s important to talk about a transmission, why it needs to flushed and the effort that goes into flushing a transmission.
What Is A Transmission Flush?
Flushing your car transmission is a relatively simple process. A flush machine uses pressure to force all 12 quarts of old transmission fluid out of a typical transmission compartment. While pressurized, the flush machine should also pick up any problems with the transmission.
A cleansing agent is then injected into the transmission to cleanse all of its internal parts. Note that the flush process only removes particles that may be in the transmission filter, but it does not replace the transmission filter.
The transmission flush cost for an automatic transmission will be higher than for a manual transmission.
How Much Does it Cost?
As you can imagine, the transmission flush cost varies depending upon several factors such as how old the car is, the make and model of the car and whether the flush is done at a dealership or local repair shop.
The typical cost of a flush varies between $75 to $250. For example, a transmission flush for a late model 2007 VW Jetta will cost between $120 to $150 whereas for an older 2004 Ford Explorer it will cost between $190 to $225.
How Often Should You Get A Flush?
Most car manufacturers do not actually recommend routine transmission flushes. However, some car service centers do recommend them every 30 thousand miles. So for example, if you have an older car and you want to get a few more years out of the transmission then a flush may be appropriate.
Older Cars Versus Newer Cars
Older rear wheel drive cars whose automatic transmissions are separate from the engine are probably safer to be flushed. The risk is much higher on later model front wheel drive cars where the transmission is integrated closely with the engine.
In either case, you may want to hold off getting a flush if the fluid has turned brown or has sludge deposits in it.
A flush can cause the sludge to move to parts of the transmission or engine where it can clog oil lines resulting in a possible lowering of oil pressure and potentially damaging the engine or transmission.
On the other hand, if you bought a brand new car and kept up a regular flush every 30 thousand miles like clockwork, then it’s more likely you will gain the advantages of smoother gear shifting and extended life out of your transmission.
What If You Do Not Get A Transmission Flush?
The best case scenario is that nothing will happen. The worst case is that you will eventually have to replace your transmission somewhere down the line which can be a horrendously expensive proposition.
The first thing you should do is to decide to consult the owners manual for your car. Many car manufacturers do not recommend getting flushes because they can damage the transmission.
Note that on many cars, getting a transmission flush may even void your warranty. Even if your owners manual says flushes are fine, make sure you do not get one before the minimum mileage suggested by the owners manual which is usually around 30 000 miles.
How Can I Get An Inexpensive Transmission Flush?
While you cannot change the year or make of your car, you can choose to have the flush done at a local repair shop for a lower price rather than at a dealership which will cost more.
The important thing to keep in mind is that you should make sure that the local repair shop actually has the expertise, fluids and other parts needed for your vehicle to do the job properly. So ask them.
Make sure they have the fluids and parts recommended by the manufacturer of your car, and do not accept substitutes. Transmissions are finicky machines internally and will wear out or breakdown faster if they are fitted with fluids or parts that are not exactly to specification.
Where Should I Get A Transmission Flush?
Honestly this depends upon your budget. The safest place is at a dealership that is certified to sell and repair your make and model of car. But to be fair, many local repair shops and national chains can also do the work just as well.
Just keep in mind that the transmission flush cost should not be your primary concern but whether the flush is needed for your car at all, and if so, that the repair shop has both the certified labor and parts for your car to do the job properly.
Can I Get Transmission Flush Coupons?
First of all, you should be familiar with where you can get the flush done in your area. By going online and looking at the websites of the local repair shops and dealers you may find, for example, that the dealership may be less expensive if you use one of their coupon specials versus the local repair shop which may not have any specials.
In any case, you should use your favorite Internet search engine and type in “transmission flush coupons” to see what specials are available in your area.