I do not know if the transmission fluid has ever been changed on my 132,000-mile Honda coupe, but I have read online that a flush is preferable for clearing everything out and cleaning the system, but it can also damage the transmission. Which service is best? Clean up or alter
As a mechanic,
I see two ways to change your transmission fluid: drain and refill, or flush. A drain and refill is like changing your oil - we simply remove some of the old fluid from the pan and replace it with fresh stuff. It’s faster and cheaper, but some of the old fluid stays mixed in. A flush uses a machine to pump out all the old fluid and replace it completely. It’s more thorough, but can be risky for some older transmissions with lots of miles on them. If your car is running smoothly and you’ve kept up with regular maintenance, a drain and refill is usually fine. If your transmission is acting weird or has high mileage, consult your owner’s manual or a mechanic to see if a flush is safe for your car.
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When your Honda has 132,000 miles, forego the flush. It is advised to empty and refill to reduce the chance of a worn-out transmission. See a mechanic if you are not sure.
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Just drain and fill both.
When my Honda Accord reached around 120,000 miles, I faced the dilemma of whether to perform a transmission fluid change or a flush. I had read conflicting opinions online—some advocating for a flush to thoroughly clean the system, while others warned about potential risks to the transmission. After consulting with a trusted mechanic, I opted for a transmission fluid change rather than a flush. The mechanic explained that a flush could dislodge debris and cause it to circulate within the transmission, potentially leading to issues. The fluid change involved draining the old fluid and replacing it with fresh fluid, which was deemed safer for my higher mileage vehicle.
For your Honda coupe at 132,000 miles, a transmission fluid change is generally recommended over a flush, especially if you’re unsure of the service history. A fluid change helps replace old fluid that may have degraded, while minimizing the risk of dislodging debris that could harm the transmission. Ensure the service includes replacing the filter and using the recommended transmission fluid specified by Honda. This approach helps maintain transmission health without the potential risks associated with a flush, making it the safer and more conservative choice for your vehicle’s maintenance.