Good morning, Mr. Kilmer.
Thank you for taking the time to post material to your YouTube channel. The practical perspective you bring to the trade is refreshing.
I recently purchased a used 2012 Volvo XC 60 with 130.6k miles from a dealer. (He picked it up in Florida, where salt doesn’t destroy cars like it does where I am from, in Ohio. Buying locally from a private seller is sometimes asking for rust.)
It is in great shape based on what I see and my mechanic sees.
My fear lies in that, while it was serviced meticulously, the “sealed” automatic 6-speed Aisin geartronic transmission’s fluid was never changed. I understand your counsel not to replace transmission fluid if it has never been done on a higher mileage vehicle, and only to do a gradual replacement if needed, preferably with Lucas.
The question is: if I am not experiencing any transmission issues, the best approach would be to do nothing, correct? I am a strong proponent of preventative maintenance, but have sadly caused problems in the past trying to be proactive! Is this a case of leave it well enough alone until something indicates I need to take action?
Also, is there a chance this transmission still has good longevity even if the fluid has not been replaced?
Thank you for your help.
Jim
if I am not experiencing any transmission issues, the best approach would be to do nothing, correct?
See the FAQ for details on changing transmission fluid.
Also, is there a chance this transmission still has good longevity even if the fluid has not been replaced?
A transmission that is not been properly maintained is unlikely to have a long service life.
The question is: if I am not experiencing any transmission issues, the best approach would be to do nothing, correct? I am a strong proponent of preventative maintenance, but have sadly caused problems in the past trying to be proactive! Is this a case of leave it well enough alone until something indicates I need to take action?
Generally, if the transmission fluid is dark red and not gritty (grittiness means the friction material from the clutches are wearing out), you might be able to get away with changing the fluid. Keep whatever comes out if the transmission starts to slip afterwards. If the fluid smells burnt or gritty, do not change the fluid.
If it’s not brown and doesn’t smell burnt I would say leave it alone. I would change it around every 50,000 miles though.
@fordfan this is helpful. Thank you.
@fordfan if it's brown and burnt then you waited too long in my opinion.
The question is: if I am not experiencing any transmission issues, the best approach would be to do nothing, correct? I am a strong proponent of preventative maintenance, but have sadly caused problems in the past trying to be proactive! Is this a case of leave it well enough alone until something indicates I need to take action?
Generally, if the transmission fluid is dark red and not gritty (grittiness means the friction material from the clutches are wearing out), you might be able to get away with changing the fluid. Keep whatever comes out if the transmission starts to slip afterwards. If the fluid smells burnt or gritty, do not change the fluid.