Atf change

[REDSHEEPRIDD]

Have just had my 54 plate given its 72k service (at 70K) by my local indie.

Needed front discs & pads as expected (twin axle tow takes its toll) and was quoted £400. Phoned round a few garages and eventually got National (I know) for £220 with the online 20% voucher - 1 month later and all is fine.

Anyway, I wanted the ATF flushed and changed and have had difficulty getting a quote, so eventually phoned local Volvo dealer who advised that I should not change it as it is not recommended. Explained that I towed a twin axle, but he advised to leave well alone.

The fluid on dipstick is mucky, but still a shade of red and I dont fancy trying the gibbons method myself.

Anyone advise if I should carry on and get this changed or just leave.

[wagga]

Advice is to source the exact ATF oil and changed it.

I remembered driving my Zafira many years back.
ATF change was only required at 100K. But with city driving condition, I did it every 45K. Had 3 changes, and was always happy with the responsive gearbox. Best is, even when draining the ATF oil, the colour remain good. I would be alarm if the colour coming out is dark.

[Big Stew]

Most definately change it, at 75k it has had its life with the towing. Try looking for an indy transmission specialist, most offer trans fluid changes. Most dealers say they are a sealed unit but they would if they can sell you a new box at 100k instead of an oil change at 75k ! ! ! !

[PsYcHe]

If you want to make the trip to Glasgow.. Book it into Mackies, they seem to have a good rep and are gearbox specialists (along with being a ZF facility)

[RoyMacDonald]

Your local Volvo dealer is wrong. The service interval is 4 years or 48,000 miles if you are using the car for towing, short journeys, or traffic stop start conditions.

Unless all you do is cruise at moderate steady speed the service interval is 4 years, so that's all UK cars I would guess.

I prefer a full synthetic in my car, and as the Volvo ATF isn't I use Amsoil.

[jtaw45]

Me too,i also tow a twin axle caravan and changed mine at 70k for Amsoil, that was 12 months ago and no problems since. If it's black it wants changing.

[REDSHEEPRIDD]

Thanks everyone.

I have phoned round and have booked it in for a flush & change - £95 - seemed reasonable given the cost of the fluid. (checked - it is volvo fluid).

Am also getting brake fluid changed. £40

One garage argued not to flush, but to drain & fill only, because flushing will disrupt all the sludge and particles on the tran. casing and this will float around in the new fluid and may cause damage??

[PsYcHe]

Maybe... If you trust your garage (and assuming this unit has one), the Audi guys drop the sump off the gearbox and give it a clean which gets away from that probem, also allows for the filter to be changed at the same time.

[RoyMacDonald]

Originally Posted by REDSHEEPRIDD

Thanks everyone.

I have phoned round and have booked it in for a flush & change - £95 - seemed reasonable given the cost of the fluid. (checked - it is volvo fluid).

Am also getting brake fluid changed. £40

One garage argued not to flush, but to drain & fill only, because flushing will disrupt all the sludge and particles on the tran. casing and this will float around in the new fluid and may cause damage??

The ATF CANNOT be changed without flushing. Attempting to do so will damage the box.

[REDSHEEPRIDD]

Thought you could simply drain and refill if wanted?