The Truth About the Transmission Flush

Automatic Transmission Flush: Safe or Scary?

There are a lot of opinions on the subject of a transmission flush. Opinions, however, are not as useful as facts, so let’s take a look at the facts of this issue!

What should I know about a transmission flush?

Thurston County Transmission owner Larry Collins has experience with just about every type of transmission under the sun:

• GM
• Ford
• Chrysler
• Import cars
• European cars
• Exotic cars

From 2-speed transmissions to 9-speed transmissions, he has worked on them all for more than 33 years. This includes rebuilding, repairing, installing performance upgrades, and servicing all makes and models. He can say with certainty that design and function have not stayed the same.

Many customers know this. They may not know about the technical details, but they can certainly tell that change has taken place many times in the past 30 to 40 years of automotive transmission industry.

Hydraulic control systems in early automatic transmission design relied on governors and throttle valve-controlled systems. Some used a vacuum modulator. Computers were not used, meaning the process was mechanical.

Does this mean getting a transmission flush is unnecessary?

As with everything in the automotive services world, there is no absolute yes or no. However, consider how popular Hondas are, and then consider their stance on getting a transmission flush.

“American Honda strongly recommends you avoid using them on any Honda vehicle.”

That phrase alone means a reliable garage like TCT is going to stay away from flushes on Hondas. When the vehicle manufacturer themselves say “flush systems haven’t demonstrated an improvement” for customers, well, what good does it do to pretend this service matters for Honda drivers?

The article makes other points, including the reality of solvents getting left in a transmission system. This means the process may end up doing more harm than good.

What about a transmission flush and my warranty?

Another point of concern is warranty voiding. What if a flush is not covered by warranty, and then that flush does damage? You will end up paying a mechanic to not only ruin your transmission, but also ruin your warranty…talk about a double whammy!

To learn more about whether or not it is a good idea for you to get a transmission flush, be sure to get in touch with one of the members of our team of professional transmission service experts!