How do you change the transmission fluid? How many qts of fluid does it need?
Well unlike changing oil, where you just remove an oil drain plug, let the oil drain out and replace it and the oil filter is located outside the engine. On a transmission several bolts (sometimes 10-14 bolts) must be removed from the transmission fluid pan methodically to prevent a big mess for the do it yourselfer. You want to use a really wide pan to catch all the fluid that will run down all sides of the pan. Also your transmission has a filter that needs to be changed as well. Most filters are visible as soon as you remove the transmission pan. They are a little trickier than the oil filter to remove and replace if your are unfamiliar to the territory. It's not hard just tricky. Just remember when you remove the old filter, make sure there is a used o-ring around the neck of the old filter. If not, it's up in the hole the filter neck came out of and you must get it out before installing the new filter. By the way, most transmissions can have a fluid capacity of up to 8, 10 maybe 12 quarts on fluid. But when you drain the fluid, only about 4-6 quarts will come out. So remember that when adding new fluid. Also remember to check the transmission fluid with the car idling in PARK at normal operating temperature.
