Book an Automatic Transmission Fluid Change in Loughton

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.

Quality work

Any work done will meet the high standards set by the RAC.

Exceptional customer service

We’re friendly, straightforward and jargon-free

A mechanic inspecting the underside of a vehicle.

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.

Diagnostic check

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 Loughton

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.

A close up of an RAC mobile mechanic looking under the hood of a car

Try one of our RAC Approved Garages

View all garages

Buzbys Garage

Having been established by Peter in 1982, Buzby's Garage in Chingford was taken over by Usman in 2020. Since then, we have continued to seal our reputation as one of the go-to independent garages in the area for customers looking for excellent workmanship at a fair and competitive price. Within our clean, modern workshop, you’ll find four inspection ramps and a dedicated MOT bay. Usman and the team are equipped with some of the latest tools and equipment with which they carry out a huge range of vehicle services from Class 4 MOTs to clutches and brakes to vehicle diagnostics. And with the garage having been around for over 40 years, the team has a wealth of experience working on all types of vehicles including cars, vans and, commercial vehicles up to 3.5tonnes. You’ll find Buzby's Garage on Salisbury Road, just off the A112 in Chingford. We’re open six days a week and have a comfortable waiting area as well as ample parking. Give Buzby's Garage a call onor contact us online, we look forward to seeing you soon.

45 Salisbury Road, Chingford, E46TA

CSS Motors

CSS Motors offers car repairs in Waltham Abbey and further afield, such as Loughton, Waltham Cross, Theydon Bois, Buckhurst Hill and beyond. Our team has over 125 years experience in the motor trade and prides itself on customer service and retention. What you will get from us is transparent pricing, a tailored personal service, as well as vehicle collection and delivery, their is also the optional use of a courtesy car if required. Since our inception, we have grown with our customers, offering new techniques and services in response to their needs. Within our service, we cover all makes and models from classic cars to modern cars and commercial vehicles. We are a full MOT test centre supporting class 4, 5A and 7 vehicles which include 3 wheeled bikes, quads, cars, passenger vehicles, taxis, motor homes, ambulances, goods vehicles and also vehicles over 3000kg up to 3500kg gross weight. We can carry out your MOT testing up to one month before the expiry of your current MOT and we can also service your car on-site, so please do consider booking this at the same time. We quote you the cost of your servicing before it begins, so you are fully aware and there are no hidden fees. We also have the latest diagnostic testing equipment and guarantee quality parts and labour from our friendly, professional and fully trained team. We can also service and re-gas your air conditioning system, just ask! We look forward to giving you a warm welcome - and make sure to take a look at our latest.

148 Brooker Road, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1JH

Motech Vehicle Services Ltd

If you're looking for a reliable garage in Essex, look no further than Motech Vehicle Services Ltd, specialists in a wide range of garage services including mot, car servicing, engine tuning and air conditioning in Essex.

Unit 6 Roebuck Road Trading Estate, 15-17 Roebuck Road Hainault, Essex, IG63TU

Queensway Autos

If you’re looking for repairs in Enfield that you can trust, Queensway Auto Repairs is the garage for you. We’re a local garage in the area, priding ourselves on our customer service and the amount of happy customers that leave our garage. We have built up a reputation in the area as being a garage our customers can count on and we also have worked hard and done many jobs that has got us on the fixmycar newsletter august spotlight as we are one of the best on the platform nationwide. Whilst we provide quality services, we always endeavour to keep prices affordable. All our parts are genuine quality parts, manufacturer original or equivalent so that your repairs last longer. You don’t need to pay until the day and we’ll always run additional work past you first. We employ a team of 5 fully qualified mechanics, including 3 MOT testers, who can get your vehicle road worthy ASAP. Aside from our mechanics, we also employ 2 drivers, as we offer our customers a FREE local collection and delivery service.

Unit 15D, Queensway, Enfield, EN34SA

MP Automotive Service Centre

We can undertake all manor of works for all leisure and small commercial vehicles. We specialize in bmw’s with our head technician having over 15 years experience in the brand . We are a Registered MOT station offering servicing , maintenance ,organising bodywork , diagnostics , tuning and repairs. Collection and delivery services are available pre booked or sometimes same day where possible

Mp Automotive Service Centre, Rear Of Bush Hill Parade, Bury Street West, London, N99JS

Frequently asked questions on automatic transmission fluid change

How often should automatic transmission fluid be changed?

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.

Why do people say never change transmission fluid?

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.

What happens if you don’t change automatic transmission fluid?

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.

How do I know that the automatic transmission fluid has been changed recently?

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.

What are the signs that I need an automatic transmission flush?

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.

Can I change the automatic transmission fluid myself?

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.

What’s the difference between transmission fluid and gearbox oil?

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.

What is an automatic transmission flush?

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.

Is an automatic transmission fluid change necessary?

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.

How can I extend the life of my automatic transmission fluid?

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.

How long does an automatic transmission fluid change take?

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.

What should I do if my transmission fluid is low?

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.