Book an Automatic Transmission Fluid Change for your SEAT

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 can do for your SEAT

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

CHALLENGER BEESTON

4.7/5

Challenger Autos is a long established family run garage based in Beeston, Nottingham with over 30 years’ experience. Our specialist team of mechanics provide a personal and friendly service and are dedicated to providing our customers with the highest quality of car care. We offer all our customers an extremely high level of service at cost effective prices. We pride ourselves on building strong customer relationships, which has enabled us to achieve an exceptional reputation in the Nottingham / Derby area. We believe that our customers needs are of the utmost importance. Our entire team is committed to meeting those needs.

8 Factory Lane, Beeston, Nottingham, NG94AA

OGS Mechanics

4.4/5

Picking a reliable and competent vehicle repair centre can be tricky. Here at O.G.S. Mechanics we operate very strictly to the Motor Industry Code of Practice and our work is fully guaranteed. We are part of the RMI (Retail Motor Industry Federation) and Fully approved by the Trust My Garage Independent Garage Association. We are fully equipped with Main Dealer Level equipment and have outstanding mechanics all fully qualified and trained to achieve the best of their potential. We do not only deal with everyday servicing and maintenance, we rebuild engines, gearboxes, reprogram modules/keys, remap vehicles, offer DPF removal, remove seized injectors and many other various specialist services.

9-14 Millers Yard, Rear Or 28 Long Lane, Finchley, N32QG

Livingston Autocentre.

4.0/5

We are a small independent garage with years of experience. We have a great team of engineers who can help with anything from the smallest of problems to the mighty ones. We offer quality services and MOT's. We are a fully approved RAC garage, licensed and insured. Book your car in for a service today and avoid a small issue becoming a mighty one. We work with a number of suppliers to make sure we can fix your car to a high standard. We provide a wide variety of services. As a general rule; it is recommended that your car receives a full service every 12,000 miles or every 12 months. A regular service can help to keep your car running smoothly and identify potential problems early on, reducing the risk of more serious and costly problems in the future. MOT CHECKS MOTs are a legal requirement. Every year, cars over three years old need to have a check to make sure they are roadworthy and meet the environmental standards set by the government. Without this test, your vehicle insurance will become invalid as your car may not be safe to be on the road. Testimonials “Really friendly garage and great service. I had an unexpected puncture and they managed to fit me in and get me back on the road in no time” — NAOMI GALLAGHER “Really great garage and so convenient for my MOT, I would normally have to travel to Bathgate. So it’s a lot closer to Home ” — IAN ANDERSON “I’m so grateful for the team at Livingston autocentre” — CLAIRE WARD

Simpson Parkway, Kirkton Campus, Livingston, EH547BH

Turner Brothers

4.8/5

Established in 2000, Turner Brothers has grown in to one of the most comprehensive and forward thinking garages in the area. Services include anything from bulb replacement to full engine rebuilds and body shop facilities. We are a recommended Bosch Service Centre.

Turner Brothers Limited, Bottoms Mill, Woodhead Road, Holmfirth, HD9 2PX

A1 Motorsports Ltd

5.0/5

At A1 Motorsports ltd, we pride ourselves in repairing vehicles to a satisfactory standard. Using our knowledge and diversity of skills, our services we offer range from Servicing too full engine rebuilds including timing chains and timing belts Based in Longfield/Dartford, with the necessary tools needed to repair a large variety of vehicles.

Chalk Croft Transport Yard, Longfield, Kent, DA28DX

Frequently asked questions about 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.