Parts supplier MEYLE has issued some useful advice on automatic transmission oil changes, an area that offers considerable potential for independent garages.

Transmission oil undergoes a natural ageing process, with the oil wearing out and additives diminishing over time. This means it is important to change the oil to prevent damage to the transmission and maintain transmission function and driving comfort. However, MEYLE says many garages shy away from these jobs, because they believe they are too complex.

MEYLE offers over 60 oil change kits, which come with all the components required for an oil change including: filters, seals, screws, drain/intake plugs, magnets and the amount of transmission oil the application calls for. This makes the job easier and saves money for workshops and drivers alike.

To provide further support MEYLE has formulated a step-by-step guide: 

1.    Before changing the oil, read the manufacturer’s instructions and be sure to follow them.

2.    Scan and back up fault memory before changing the gearbox oil.

3.    Lift the vehicle as horizontally as possible on a lift. This allows for an accurate measure of oil level.

4.    Check the external mechatronic plug-in connector for leaks. If necessary, replace the plug casing and seal, tighten it with the prescribed torque, or check that the plug catch is positioned correctly. The seals and plug casings you need are included in the MEYLE kit.

5.    Replace the sump screw as once-off stress bolts are often used. The correct oil sump screws are included in the MEYLE kits.

6.    Empty the torque converter. Always drain any remaining oil from the torque converter if you can. To do so, turn the torque converter to the right position. With some gearboxes you have to remove the additional oil pump to get to the torque converter’s outlet screw.

7.    Fill the torque converter. Run the engine at raised revs of between around 1500 and 2000 rpm, under no load, in neutral, for 20 seconds to fill the torque converter. The same applies to a gearbox that does not have an outlet screw on its torque converter.

8.    Get the oil to the correct temperature for accurate oil level measurement.

9.    Reset adaption values. With some vehicles, the manufacturer stipulates transmission adaption after changing the oil, which is done on a suitable test bed or while driving, using the menus on the diagnostic device.

For more information on correct oil change choice and change intervals download the MEYLE compact poster at:  www.meyle.com/oilchangekits.