DIY Auto Repair

Transmission Fluid and Filter Change Yourself vs. Hiring a Mechanic

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Transmission service

As a car owner, regular maintenance and repairs are a necessary part of keeping your vehicle in good working condition. One of the essential maintenance tasks for your car is changing the transmission fluid and filter. But how much does this service cost? And is it better to go to a mechanic or do it yourself? In this guide, we’ll look at the average cost of a transmission fluid change, the factors that can affect the price, and the pros and cons of DIY vs. mechanic transmission fluid changes.

The Average Transmission Fluid Change Cost Is $200 and $450 Depending on Your Car, Your Transmission, and if You Go to the Mechanic or DIY.

Transmission fluid is responsible for lubricating and cooling the gears and components in your transmission, helping to ensure smooth and efficient operation. Over time, the transmission fluid can become dirty and contaminated, reducing its effectiveness and causing wear and damage to your transmission. That’s why it’s crucial to have the transmission fluid and filter changed at regular intervals, as specified in your vehicle’s service schedule.

The cost of a transmission fluid change can vary widely, depending on several factors, such as the type of transmission and vehicle, the location and labor rates, and any related repairs or maintenance. On average, the cost of a transmission fluid change at a mechanic ranges from $400 to $450, while the cost of a DIY transmission fluid change ranges from $220 to $280.

Cross section of a car gearbox.

Factors that Affect the Cost of a Transmission Fluid Change

  • Type of transmission and vehicle: The type of transmission your car has (automatic or manual) and the make and model of your vehicle can affect the cost of a transmission fluid change. Automatic transmissions typically require more fluid and complex procedures than manual transmissions, which can increase the cost.
  • Location and labor rates: The labor cost can vary widely depending on where you live, with rates in some areas being much higher than in others. Additionally, some mechanics may charge more for a transmission fluid change than others.
  • Related repairs or maintenance: If any other issues with your transmission need to be addressed, such as worn gears or a damaged filter, the cost of a transmission fluid change can be higher.

Cost Comparison: Mechanic vs. DIY

When it comes to the transmission fluid and filter changes, you have two options: going to a mechanic or doing it yourself. Both options have their pros and cons.

Mechanic:

  • Pros: Mechanics have the training, experience, and tools to change transmission fluid quickly and efficiently. If there are any problems with your transmission, they can diagnose and fix them. Additionally, if something goes wrong with your transmission after the fluid change, the mechanic may be able to provide warranty coverage.
  • Cons: The cost of a transmission fluid change at a mechanic can be higher than doing it yourself, and you may have to wait for an appointment.

DIY:

  • Pros: Doing a transmission fluid change yourself can save you money and give you the satisfaction of completing the task yourself. Additionally, by doing it yourself, you’ll be able to monitor the condition of your transmission fluid more closely, which can help you detect any potential problems early.
  • Cons: Changing transmission fluid yourself can be messy and time-consuming, and if you’re not familiar with the process, you may do more harm than good. Additionally, you may not be covered by warranty if something goes wrong with your transmission after the fluid change.

How to Change Your Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid
Ford Transmission Fluid
  • Overview of the process: Changing your transmission fluid is a relatively simple process that involves draining the old fluid, replacing the filter, and refilling the transmission with fresh fluid. However, the process can vary depending on the type of transmission and vehicle. It is important to consult your vehicle’s service manual or a professional mechanic before attempting a transmission fluid change.
  • Differences between manual and automatic transmissions: The process of changing the transmission fluid in a manual transmission is generally less complex than in an automatic transmission. Automatic transmissions have a pan that holds the transmission filter, which must be removed to access and replace the filter. Additionally, automatic transmissions have a torque converter that must be drained separately.
  • Tips for DIYers on how to change transmission fluid: If you’re planning on doing a transmission fluid change yourself, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
  • Make sure you have the correct type of transmission fluid for your vehicle.
  • Have a funnel, a clean rag, and an automotive drain pan ready.
  • Have a jack and jack stand ready.
  • Be prepared for the fluid to be hot and possibly dirty
  • Guides and resources for more information: Many car manufacturers provide detailed guides and videos on changing transmission fluids. Additionally, many online resources, such as forums and tutorials, can provide you with more information and guidance.

What Happens If You Don’t Change Your Transmission Fluid

Neglecting to change your transmission fluid can have severe consequences for your transmission. Over time, dirty and contaminated transmission fluid can cause wear and damage to the gears and components in your transmission, leading to costly repairs or even the need for a transmission rebuild. Additionally, neglecting transmission fluid changes can also shorten the overall lifespan of your transmission. It is essential to follow your vehicle’s recommended service schedule for transmission fluid changes to ensure the longevity and performance of your transmission.

In conclusion, the cost of a transmission fluid change can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of transmission and vehicle, location and labor rates, and any related repairs or maintenance. While it may be tempting to try and save money by doing a transmission fluid change yourself, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons and consider the potential risks and consequences. By following your vehicle’s recommended service schedule and consulting a professional mechanic when necessary, you can help ensure the longevity and performance of your transmission.

P2646 Honda VTEC Fixed “Do This First”

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How to fix Honda code P2646 VTEC for free. You’re going to want to try and clean the screens for the spool valve the VTEC valve and one other screen on the front of the motor.

If you get a p2626 you will want to try these free fixes before replacing and part.




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“P2646 Honda VTEC: Understanding the Importance of Proper Maintenance and Troubleshooting the Engine Code”

If you own a Honda VTEC engine, you know how powerful and efficient it can be. However, like any engine, it requires proper maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly and lasts for years to come. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing the “do this first” steps you should take to keep your P2646 Honda VTEC engine in top condition and troubleshoot the engine code P2646.

Understanding the P2646 Code

Engine code P2646 refers to a problem with the rocker arm oil control solenoid valve in a Honda VTEC engine. This solenoid valve controls the oil pressure that is sent to the rocker arms, which in turn control the engine’s valve timing. When the engine control module (ECM) detects a problem with the solenoid valve or the oil pressure it controls, it will set the P2646 code and illuminate the check engine light.

Possible causes for this code to be set include a faulty rocker arm oil control solenoid valve, low oil pressure, a blocked oil passage, or a problem with the oil control solenoid valve circuit. In some cases, the problem may be caused by a lack of proper maintenance, such as neglecting to change the oil or not properly maintaining the engine’s components.

It is important to diagnose and fix the problem as soon as possible, as continuing to drive with a P2646 code can cause further damage to the engine. A qualified mechanic will use a diagnostic scanner to read the code and diagnose the issue, and then make the necessary repairs.

Proper Maintenance to Avoid P2646 Code

First and foremost, it’s important to keep up with your regular oil changes. Your P2646 Honda VTEC engine has high-performance components that require clean oil to lubricate and protect them. Neglecting oil changes can lead to serious damage, including the P2646 code, and costly repairs. Make sure to follow the recommended oil change intervals in your owner’s manual and use the correct type of oil for your engine.

Next, pay attention to your engine’s air filter. The air filter is responsible for removing dirt, dust, and other debris from the air before it enters the P2646 Honda VTEC engine. A clogged air filter can decrease your engine’s performance and even cause damage. Check the air filter every time you change your oil and replace it if it’s dirty.

Another important step in maintaining your P2646 Honda VTEC engine is keeping an eye on your coolant levels. The coolant helps keep your engine at the proper operating temperature and prevents it from overheating. Make sure to check the coolant levels regularly and add more if needed.

Finally, make sure to have regular inspections and tune-ups. A qualified mechanic can detect and fix any potential issues before they become serious problems, such as the P2646 code. They can also check for worn-out parts and make sure everything is running smoothly in your P2646 Honda VTEC engine.

By following these “do this first” steps, you can help ensure that your P2646 Honda VTEC engine stays in top condition for years to come. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your engine running at its best and avoiding costly repairs, including the P2646 code. Regular maintenance is also the key to avoiding engine code P2646, and keeping your engine running at its best.

It is important to note that troubleshooting engine codes like P2646 should always be done by a qualified mechanic. They have the tools and knowledge to properly

The Cost to Repair Code P2645 Honda VTEC

The cost of repairing a P2646 code on a Honda VTEC engine can vary depending on the specific cause of the problem and the location of the repair. Some common repairs that may be required include replacing the rocker arm oil control solenoid valve, which can cost between $100 to $300 for the part alone. However, if the problem is caused by a lack of proper maintenance, such as low oil pressure or a clogged air filter, the cost of the repair will likely be less.

If the problem is caused by an issue with the oil control solenoid valve circuit, the repair cost may be higher, as it may require replacing the circuit or the engine control module.

Additionally, labor costs can vary greatly depending on the location of the repair and the experience of the mechanic. A qualified mechanic can give you a more accurate estimate of the repair cost after diagnosing the problem.

It’s also important to note that if the P2646 code is not addressed, it can lead to further damage to the engine, resulting in more costly repairs. Therefore, it’s essential to address the issue as soon as the code is detected and not to drive with the Check engine light on.

It is always recommended to check with different repair shops and compare the cost and reputation to make sure you get the best service and price.



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The Flat Rate Mechanic. 26-year ASE Master Automotive Technician and Advanced level ASE certified here to help you save money on your automotive repairs

P1101 Air Flow Volume Chevy Malibu “Help Needed”

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All right flat rate mechanic here again and we’re diagnosing a p1101 for airflow volume on this Chevy Malibu which seems to be a pretty common problem. The customer came in and they had already replaced the mass airflow sensor one of my techs diagnosed it and we ended up cleaning the throttle body and putting in a map sensor. The check engine light still came back on so I’m gonna kind to go through what I found and how to check these first. What you really need to do if you’re trying to fix p1101 for the airflow is you’re going to need to smoke the actual boost side of this intake system so basically you’re going to have to block off where the air comes in here and lock it off here and you’re going to want to check for leaks through this uh through the turbo through the intercooler and see if you got any leaks on that air charge side of this whole system there’s any leaks whatsoever it’s going to cause that p1101

we did smoke that we took it up here we actually smoked it through here blocked this off we didn’t find any leaks so that all checked out good and we’ve replaced both the booth sensor and the mass airflow sensor or the map sensor sorry the only sensor we haven’t done is a boost sensor but thus far that seems to check out our right but I’m going to show you what we found um I do have this little deal here wants us to check some some of the perimeters on the scan tool which I have up right now we got our boost pressure sensor fuel trim manifold pressure and mass airflow so um and on here one of the first things it wants you to do is uh we want you to basically compare your boost pressure sensor to your Maps sensor pressure so we can go ahead and do that and you’re going to want to do that with the engine off so we’ll go ahead and shut the engine off and we’ll go to English here so we’ve got pounds and you can see where uh relatively close to win range we got 13.5 and 14.1 so I would consider that acceptable so now we’ll go ahead and start it the next thing he wants us to do is check the mass airflow sensor we should have approximately three grams per second at idle so we’re going to go ahead and check that next we’re going to go ahead and start it up and we’ll change our scan tool to metric so we can read grams per second and looks like we’re at about 2.8 and now this is a new Point 2.4 actually so this is a new mass airflow sensor our idle uh seems like we are idling very low we did do a throttle body cleaning Subscribe to my youtube channel here: https://goo.gl/j1pCfn

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The Flat Rate Mechanic. 26-year ASE Master Automotive Technician and Advanced level ASE certified here to help you save money on your automotive repairs The Flat Rate Mechanic is a participant in the Amazon Influencer Program. Disclaimer: Due to factors beyond the control of The Flat Rate Mechanic, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information or improper use of this information. The Flat Rate Mechanic assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this automotive repair video. The Flat Rate Mechanic recommends safe practices when working on cars or trucks with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this repair video. Due to factors beyond the control of The Flat Rate Mechanic, no information contained in this automotive repair video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained.

How to Fix BMW Air Injection Codes: P0491 and P0492 “For Free”

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In this video, I will show you how to fix BMW the air injection codes p0491 and P0492. P0492: Secondary Air Injection System Insufficient Flow Bank 2 P0491: Secondary Air Injection System Insufficient Flow Bank 1

Flat rate mechanic here again and we got this BMW in here for a check engine light and we got a couple of codes we got a p0491 and a p0492 BMW secondary air injection so we got some kind of air injection problem as far as the flow goes and I just wanted to go over what we found when we were diagnosing this basically the first thing we did we pulled out the this is the actual air injection pump itself we just disconnected it if I applied power and ground here pumps seem to be working fine so we went ahead and did is um if you look down here the air pump this usually is going to mount right over here like this

We pulled this up so we could get to the diverter valve here um the diverter valve is controlled by vacuum and this vacuum line goes to a vacuum electronic vacuum switch which is located down behind the intake here so we tried activating this with a scan tool we weren’t getting any airflow we did verify we weren’t getting any airflow the air pumps coming on so all that stuff’s good on what we found is we’ve got a there’s actually if you follow this vacuum line down behind the intake you got a check valve here and the vacuum hose was actually actually broken off so the vacuum switching valve wasn’t supplying power or wasn’t oh wasn’t flying back into the diverter valve so let me see if I can actually see back yeah I don’t think you guys are going to be able to see that but the vacuum switching valve is right behind here and it connects to a port in the back of the intake manifold so ultimately what’s going to fix this one is just repairing as simple as repairing you know this rotted out vacuum line so we’ll fix that verify the repair and hopefully this BMW will be good to go thanks for watching if it’s helpful be sure to hit the Thumbs Up And subscribe to the flat rate mechanic

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How to Fix P0101 Mass or Volume Air Flow “Nissan Altima” Mass Air Flow Sensor Fixed

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In this video, I will show you how to fix p0101 mass air flow sensor circuit. We’re working on a 2011 Nissan Altima and in this video, I just wanted to go over a few things we found. First, we tried cleaning the mass air flow sensor which in a lot of cases can help and is always a good thing to try before replacing the mass air flow sensor.

If you need to know how to clean the mass air flow sensor they do sell mass air flow sensor cleaner here https://amzn.to/3yef3wP . Sometimes just this alone will fix a p0101 On this vehicle, we actually had to replace the mass air flow sensor and also there’s a service bulletin that states a computer should be updated with new software to prevent this problem from happening. We deliver all this information in this video about Nissan’s mass air flow problems.

If you would like to see more great automotive video be sure to subscribe to The Flat Rate Mechanic Subscribe to my youtube channel here: https://goo.gl/j1pCfn For the most common automotive fixes to the most common car and truck problems. DIY auto repair to help you save money.

Connect with me:

Website: https://flatratemechanic.com

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For Promotional offers, consulting, training, sponsorships or other inquiries contact me at FlatRateMechanic1@gmail.com The Flat Rate Mechanic. 26-year ASE Master Automotive Technician and Advanced level ASE certified here to help you save money on your automotive repairs The Flat Rate Mechanic is a participant in the Amazon Influencer Program.

Disclaimer: Due to factors beyond the control of The Flat Rate Mechanic, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information or improper use of this information. The Flat Rate Mechanic assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this automotive repair video. The Flat Rate Mechanic recommends safe practices when working on cars or trucks with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this repair video. Due to factors beyond the control of The Flat Rate Mechanic, no information contained in this automotive repair video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained.

Dodge Crank No Start, Fuel Pump Relay Work Around “No Parts Needed”

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In this video, I will show you how we were about the get this Dodge that had a no crank no start running again. The car would crank but would not start and we found there to be no fuel pressure. After the test, the fuel pump circuit found that there was no power at the fuel pump fuse which gets its power from the fuel pump relay. In this car, the fuel pump relay is part of the fuse box or TIPM is what is called the “total integration power module” and the fuel pump relay is not serviceable. So we show you how to bypass the fuel pump relay to see if your car will start.

P0455 P2188 P0441 P2190 System Running Rich, Large EVAP Leak, and Purge Flow

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P0455 P2188 P0441 P2190 System Running Rich, Large EVAP Leak, and Purge Flow Codes. In this video we will show you how to fix p0455 large evap system leak, p2188 system running rich bank 1, p0441 evap purge flow, and p2190 system too rich bank 2. The trouble codes we found in the car PCM are all caused by the same problem and we will go over what we found and show you how to diagnose this problem

P0171 and P0174 System Running Lean Bank 1 and Bank 2 “Checking Fuel Trims”

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How to fix P0171 and P0174 System Running Lean Bank 1 and Bank 2 If you’re experiencing P0171 and P0174 system running lean, check for “fuel trims” in your bank 1 and bank 2. This video will show you how to diagnose and fix the issue using a simple scan tool. In this video, we’ll show you how to diagnose and fix the issue using a simple scan tool.

If you’re experiencing P0171 and P0174 system running lean, make sure to check for “fuel trims” in your bank 1 and bank 2. This will help to fix the issue and get your engine running smoothly again! if your car is setting lean obd code at idle it is most likely a vacuum leak. if it is running lean off idle you will need to look at other things like the mass air flow sensor for your problem

How To Check Transmission Fluid Level In Ford Edge “No Dip Stock”

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In this video, we’ll show you how to check transmission fluid level in a Ford Edge “No Dip Stock”. This is a quick and easy way to check the fluid level without having to take the car in for a service appointment. This video is perfect for Ford Edge drivers who want to keep their car running smoothly and without any unexpected repairs. Watch and learn how to check the transmission fluid level in a Ford Edge “No Dip Stock” today!

P0140 P0138 Code Chevy Truck

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P0140 P0138 Code Chevy Truck

P0140 P0138 Code Chevy Truck, If you have a P0140 or a P0138 code in your chevy truck this video is for you. I will be showing you a few things you should check before replacing the oxygen sensor in your Chevy truck. Both these codes p0138 and p0140 are both for the bank 1 sensor 2 O2 sensor.


If you having trouble locating the right oxygen sensor I also have a video on that here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tYUkcz64VU4

Mini code reader, I used in the video: https://amzn.to/34mOior