Book an Automatic Transmission Fluid Change for your Volkswagen

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 Volkswagen

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

Ian Bright Motor Engineer

4.7/5

Ian Bright Motor Engineers is a friendly independent garage situated in a beautiful countryside location in Halnaker, Chichester. Established since 2013, our small team are dedicated to delivering you the highest levels of customer service. Our workshop is fully equipped and we cater for all makes and models of vehicles, offering our customers a comprehensive range of repairs, maintenance work, servicing and MOT’s. Owner Ian has over 47 years of experience, having started his 5 year City & Guilds apprenticeship back in the 70’s. City and Guilds qualifications are a lot more intense and labour intensive compared to the more modern qualifications available to mechanics nowadays, and we were taught how to fix and repair parts as opposed to simply replacing them, which is standard practice in most places today. I have experience working with older classic cars, alongside newer more modern ones too, and no job is too big or too small for us to take on! Most of my customers have been with me for years and know that by choosing my company to undertake works on their pride and joy, they will receive fantastic workmanship alongside a personalised service. We would never advise you doing anything to your vehicle which was unnecessary as some garages do purely for profit, priding ourselves on our honest core values. My son, who was trained in-house alongside me, has branched out into classic and vintage race cars and is fast gaining a fantastic reputation for his first-class trimming, and my eldest grandson Lewis is now working with me and is undergoing his apprenticeship too. Three more grandsons are also looking to come on board and keep this garage running with a strong family presence.

Unit 2 The Workshops, Thicket Lane, Halnaker, PO180QS

Emerald House of Cars - Service Centre

4.2/5

Not only do the Emerald Team carry out an amazing job in preparing vehicles for sale, the doors are also open to the general public for MOT, servicing and repair work. Emerald are a real family run business and we treat our customers like family. The same ethos that allowed us to win the UK Independent Dealer of the year carries over into our service department; we are committed to giving the best service our customers have ever received. Main dealer quality and service but without the hefty price tag. We pride ourselves on providing not only great value, but also transparency through video health checks and upfront quotations. Need to have some urgent work done on your vehicle but don't have the cash right now? We understand! That's why we have 0% interest payment plans available for all the work that we do.

Unit 6, Emerald House, Heath Road, Wednesbury, WS108LP

F.E.Jones & Sons Auto Centre

4.7/5

We carry out MOT's, MOT repairs, servicing, general repairs and diagnostics. We can also fit tyres, exhausts and batteries. We are located in Prestatyn town centre next to the bus station and Lidl.

Unit 10 Parc Dyffryn Industrial Estate, Ffordd Pendyffryn, Prestatyn, LL199DG

Hardacres Garage.

4.9/5

Hardacres Garage is a family owned and operated business in the heart of Mid Devon serving the local community of Tiverton and the surrounding area. We pride ourselves in being open and honest. Our work is carried out by qualified mechanics who specialise in BMW, Land Rover and Isuzu's. All types of work is carried out including fabrication and welding, servicing and repairs of all makes of Cars Vans and 4x4s.

29-31 Leat Street, Tiverton, EX165LG

Ferdotti Motor Services Ltd

5.0/5

Ferdotti Motor Services is a reputable family owned business based in West Bromwich and have been established for over 30 years. As a local vehicle service centre we offer a wide range of services for cars and commercial vehicles including: MOT testing, servicing, repairs, diagnostics, laser wheel alignment, engine re-conditioning, welding and fabrication and bodywork. The quality of our work is reflected in our loyal customer base.

40 Pleasant Street, Lyng, West Bromwich, B70 7DP

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.