My wife has a 2012 Chevy Cruze LS with just over 90,000 miles.
The transmission fluid has never been changed but I'm wondering if her transmission has too many miles at this point where changing the fluid now can cause more problems than if I were to just leave it.
Thanks,
I'm not a big fan of "run to fail." Proper preventive maintenance trumps the proverbial head-in-the-sand.
One analogy that I find useful is this: It's like brushing one's teeth. If one has not brushed one's teeth in six month, that doesn't mean it's OK not to do it, ever again.
Having said that, here's a few pointers:
1. Drain and fill only. NO FLUSHES. Ideally, this should NOT be offered to you, because GM has a specific TSB that warns dealers that flushing voids warranties. However, it's easy and cheap for the service people and potentially disastrous for your Cruze. NO FLUSHES, under any circumstances. DRAIN AND FILL, only.
2. Use the right fluid. Mixing fluids can also be disastrous for a transmission. OEM fluid only.
3. Educate yourself on the procedure. (There are YouTube videos on this, if you're considering DIY).
The point is not necessarily to remove all the fluid, in a drain and fill, but to remove a considerable portion, and replenish the fluid with the general lubrication additives as well as the additives that keep the seals pliable.
Good luck.
Long as the transmission is okay at this point, I would say yes it is okay to change it, but do not flush.
Really the only time you would not want to change the fluid is if the fluid is actually gritty. That would mean friction surfaces on clutches and bands are worn and the suspended grit may well be the only thing providing enough grip for the trans to work. Other than that caution, drain and fill is the way to go, and as others have said do not flush it.
I'm surprised it's lasted this long. Drain and fill....NO FLUSHES, been mentioned already. My sister had a Chevy Cruze and nothing but trouble once it got over 100k miles; traded it for a newer Civic (non-turbo).
