Well, I've got 18k on my CLS and from what I read earlier, it seems it's time to get mine changed. I also remember reading something about we should only use Acura/honda fluid, not Mobile-1 synthetic fluid? Is this true? Inquiring minds want to know!

 

I changed mine at 14,500, and will continue to change it every 15k. I beleive its well worth it as insurance.

 

acura/honda tranny fluid is recommended. even mobil recommends you use acura/honda. do a search. there was a lot if information posted about this subject.

 

It seems as if 15k is the right time to change the trans oil on our cars. Lets face it, we all drive a little aggresively and that puts added stress on the trans oil. It just seems prudent to do it then. ONLY use Honda/Acura fluid- no other will do!

 

As always, thanks for the voice of reason, Wayne.

I'll make my appt at my local dealer today!

(You sure Park Ave doesn't own anything in Orlando? )

 

Thanks Wayne. I remember a few months ago, those of us that changed our tranny fluid at 15k were laughed at and called names. I felt it was cheap insurance given my driving and I did notice an improved feel after the change. Thanks for the backup.

 

I would do it yourself...it's simple...drain, flush and refill...no kit involved...unless of course you're taking it to Park Ave Acura....then you CAN'T DO IT YOURSELF...

 

Whats a Flush??
Also I contacted the chemical engineering dept at Amsoil (they invented synthetic oil for autos) about their synthetic trans oil and was it for Honda (Acura) transmissions. Their response was NOT to use synthetic trans oil in Honda. Use only Honda trans oil. That's good enough for me.


[ 07-12-2001: Message edited by: fender4 ]

 

I have almost 13k miles now and will definitely be getting new tranny fluid put in at 15k. I will also get a new fuel filter.

 

So I should drive all the hell out to my dealer and just buy ATF from them? Hell no, man! If I'm driving 20 miles out of my way, I'm paying the extra $20 or $30 and letting them do the dirty work!

Thanks for all the info!

 

I did mine at 40,000 km's and it made it feel like a brand new car again

 

IMO -- The flush in lieu of just a change is the way to go.

 

this is bunch of Bullshit, I would not touch my tranny fluid until its 30-40K miles.
Go ahead you ideots, spend your money ......
You got to look at the color of your fluid, if its still red, then its fine ...

 

It really depends on the type of driving and driving-cycle. My Maxima was low mileage, but the tranny fluid got pretty dark. Only the "flush" brought back that brand new fluid look.

I happen to be in the "change fluids alot" club -- and have had great luck with my vehicles. It's my money to waste (although I just consider it cheap insurance)...

 

color is not always a way to check, service your car according to the manual, dealers looking for money did not write the manual, the engineers who designed and mfg'd your car did

 

The point I'm trying to make is -- you can't go wrong with early changes, and sometime mileage is not the best indicator of when to change.

Rule base:

1. Follow manual (at minimum) MILES AND DURATION!!!

2. Look for dark color or get a fluid test.

Which ever indicates need for change -- don't delay -- I've seen more engines worn out from lack of timely oil-changes...

 

Manual says to change at 30K miles!!!

 

It's all depends on how you drive it!

Normail driving: Just follow the manual

You race your car : change it earlier

 

We've had this discussion time and time again and the answer is always the same. The manual recommends change at 30,000 miles (not sure how many km's Astro) for NORMAL driving. If you consider your driving heavy duty, then change. It can't hurt.

It should be done by a professional though because just a change only changes part of the fluid, I believe. You need a big ol' toilet flush!

 

How can a do it yourselfr flush his system?
I'm at 17000 and missed the post about 15000 tranny service. I do know that we dont have a filter though.

 

ive changed mine 3 times already but i gotta change mine every 10-12 thousand miles

 

....It's all about "VISCOSITY" gang, same goes for the engine oil. The fluids break down slower or quicker depending on the
temp., x-mission speed and condition, and basically how you drive the car. And as it was mentioned above, use Honda ATF.

 

Well according to your post...you should check you tranny fluid every 5K tomake sure then...right!?! It's up to you...do it if you want...it's just a suggestion from people who have the same car as you. I drive mine like i stole it...so, of course I need to change it at min 15K. But to each his own.