£551.71

Average price for this repair in Derby in the last 30 days^

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 Derby

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

DC Tyres and Autocentre

5.0/5

DC Tyres and Autocentre is a well-established family run business operating in the Castle Donington, Derby area with many years’ experience in the motor trade. We offer a full range of services catering for all your motoring needs. We have a dedicated team of fully qualified technicians and VOSA approved MOT testers. This is complemented by our professional office team who make sure your experience with us is a pleasant one.
Unit 6 Enterprise Park, Trent Lane, Castle Donington, Derby, DE742PY

Monkey Garage Ltd

4.9/5

We are a super friendly vehicle repairs garage based in Derby, near the Meteor Centre and Chester Green. We have over 20 years’ experience in the motor industry from our expertise in the workshop to our customer service in the office. All servicing and repair needs are welcome but it's good to know we also specialise in diagnostics, engine repairs and the really big stuff where quality and competence comes above all else. We are competitive in price and if we can repair rather than replace to save you time and money, we will. We pride ourselves on our honesty, quality and customer service. Here at the workshop, we only source quality parts that come with a standard manufacturer warranty. In addition to this, our labour comes under a 12-month warranty, leaving you with peace of mind. Your vehicle maintenance shouldn’t be a stressful experience, our staff here at Monkey Garage will ensure the service you receive is smooth running. Get in touch to find out more.
Unit 2 Acorn Place, Alfreton Road, Derby, DE214AS

Elite MOT Station

4.4/5

Elite MOT Station offer a wide range of vehicle repairs and servicing for cars and vans in the heart of Sinfin, Derby. We pride ourselves on our honest and reliable approach to car repair. Elite mot station are a DVSA approved MOT test station and can MOT cars (class 4), and vans (class 7) vehicles on site. We pride ourselves on offering a fair MOT for a fair price. Based on Sinfin Commercial Park, we are located within easy reach of Allenton, Alvaston, Chellaston, Littleover, Mickleover, Normanton, Shelton Lock, Sinfin, and Stenson Fields.
4E Sinfin Lane Commercial Park, Sinfin Lane, Derby, DE249HL

Greenfields Recovery

4.4/5

We are a family run business with full workshop facilities and 24 hour recovery service. All aspects of vehicle repairs, services, brake repairs , tyres and small jobs we have a waiting room with drinks available. We offer RAC vehicle inspections Services from £95.00 Tyres from £79.00 Electrical repairs Diagnostics We now offer a mobile repair service at your home or place of work. 24 hour breakdown/accident recovery available.
Unit 5 And 6 Hilton Industrial Estate, Derby, DE655FE

RGS MOTORS LTD

4.4/5

Welcome to RGS Motors LTD! With over 25 years of experience you can certainly trust us with your vehicle :) We provide a waiting room for all of our customers if you would like to watch the magic happen! If you would prefer to explore then take yourself to the shops we have nearby, ASDA is usually a favourite so you can provide yourself with some retail therapy before picking up your car. We also have a railway station situated approximately 100 yards away which is perfect if you would like to travel back home or too work.
Unit 3 Bloomsgrove Road, Ilkeston, DE78DQ

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.