Book an Automatic Transmission Fluid Change in Preston

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 Preston

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

Ace Elite Autos LTD

HERE AT ACE ELITE AUTOS LTD, WE TAKE PRIDE IN ALL WORK CARRIED OUT. WITH OUR IN-HOUSE QUALITY CONTROL, WE ENSURE EACH AND EVERY VEHICLE LEAVES TO A SATISFACTORY STANDARD AND ENSURING ALL WORK IS CARRIED OUT WITHIN MANUFACTURERS SPECIFICATIONS. WITH ALMOST 85% OF INBOUND VEHICLES OF GERMAN ORIGIN, YOU CAN BE ASSURED WE HAVE THE BEST KNOWLEDGE, TOOLS, AND DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENT TO CARRY OUT YOUR REPAIRS. WITH CUSTOMER SATISFACTION AT THE HEART OF OUR BUSINESS, IF THERE ARE ANY QUESTIONS OR REQUESTS PRIOR TO OR POST-BOOKING, PLEASE DO NOT HESITATE TO CONTACT US. THANK YOU

Patten Street 1, Garage, Preston, PR12HA

Eldon Street Garage Ltd

Eldon Street Garage has been established for over 40 years, we are a medium sized business with a large local customer base. We provide a friendly and personal service which has earned us an outstanding reputation in and around Preston. All of our work is guaranteed and we have a fixed labour charge, which means that you don't have to worry about any hidden charges. We provide a wide range of garage services for any make or model and we are Citroen specialists.

174 Eldon Street, Ashton-On-Ribble, Preston, PR2 2AY

CKE Commercials/Fleet Services Limited

LGV & HGV Roadside Assistance in Lancashire Our trained experts pride themselves on efficiency, accuracy and a 5* level of service! We price our work competitively, and put a lot of work into preparing your quotes so that they are as accurate as possible, and without surprise costs! We can provide an expert roadside assistance service that is tailored to your needs. We work in partnership with your business, and we understand the need to keep efficiency up and cost down, whilst ensuring to keep your vehicles moving!

453A Carr Place, Walton Summit Ind, Preston, PR58AU

Woods Fleet Support Ltd

Operating in Preston, Lancashire, Woods Fleet Support not only provides vehicle breakdown assistance and recovery locally, but nationwide, due to a widespread network of trusted sub-contractors who are individually vetted to ensure they provide the best service possible for our customers. With an ETA of 60-90 minutes, our main aim is to have your vehicles operating and back on the road with as little down time as possible, therefore, any possible roadside repairs will be completed before deployment of a recovery vehicle. With a fully equipped and PAS43 & ISO9001 accredited workshop based in Preston, Lancashire, we provide full fleet maintenance, repair, breakdown, and MOT packages which is scheduled on our professional, fleet maintenance system meaning you can trust us to take care of your fleet whatever the needs.

Cuerdon Farm Liverpool Road Tarleton, Preston, PR46HN

Auto Technics Southport

Southport MOT's Managing Director, Chris Cross, discovered his passion for mechanics at the tender age of four years old. He would follow his father “like a shadow”, watching and learning while he tinkered with motorbikes and cars. By the age of 14, Chris was such a competent car mechanic that he removed his first engine from the chassis of an original Fiat 500. When Chris left school, aged 16, he was only out of work for a week before he went to work for Jack Hodson Ltd; a well-established garage in Bootle. At the same time he attended Riversdale Technical College, in Liverpool, gaining his City and Guilds Motor Vehicle Technicians Part 1, 2 and 3 qualifications. At the age of 21, Chris launched his own business, starting as a mobile mechanic before moving to a workshop in Formby. He finally settled the business at its current location, at 71 London Street, Southport, twelve years ago. All of which means that Chris has been a top flight car mechanic for more than 33 years. Chris constantly seeks to upgrade his skills and knowledge to remain at the top of his game. He has gained just about all the relevant qualifications possible and is a member of the Institute of Road Transport Engineers and Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI). Southport MOT is also an accredited Which? Trusted Trader, Unipart Car Car Centre and part of the Approved Garages network – so you can always be sure of the highest standards of customer service. Right-hand man, Mike, has been with the business for more than 25 years. His knowledge and expertise are second to none. While Chris' son, Tom, has followed in his father's footsteps to become a fully qualified technician at the garage and has been with the company for 15 years. “I'd like to think that people come to us because of what we can do. We tend to get a lot of problems that other car garages can't rectify because we've got a serious amount of experience in the motor trade. I've always liked cars and I take pride in doing a good job more than anything.” – Chris Cross, Managing Director, Southport MOT Talk to us today about our services onor email [email protected].

Autotechnics, 71 London Street, Southport, PR90TX

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.