Transmission Cooler Lines
08-05-2018, 02:36 PM
#1
Transmission Cooler Lines
Going to change out the automatic transmission fluid for the first time on Tuesday. Prior owner (original) drank the Kool-Aid and believed that since there was no dipstick, it didn't need to be changed. I notice in my research that many replace the transmission cooler lines at about my mileage (164k).. Necessary? Recommended? Cost?
Thanks. Newbie to HHR here.
Thanks. Newbie to HHR here.
08-05-2018, 02:41 PM
#2
Moderator
Join Date: 05-01-2014
Location: California
Posts: 7,799
From your owner manual
Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter if
the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of
these conditions:
− In heavy city traffic where the outside
temperature regularly reaches 90°F (32°C) or
higher.
− In hilly or mountainous terrain.
− When doing frequent trailer towing.
− Uses such as found in taxi, police, or delivery
service.
If you do not use your vehicle under any of these
conditions, the fluid and filter do not require
changing.
Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter if
the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of
these conditions:
− In heavy city traffic where the outside
temperature regularly reaches 90°F (32°C) or
higher.
− In hilly or mountainous terrain.
− When doing frequent trailer towing.
− Uses such as found in taxi, police, or delivery
service.
If you do not use your vehicle under any of these
conditions, the fluid and filter do not require
changing.
08-05-2018, 02:52 PM
#3
Thank you, sir. I always appreciate having more information. That said, I am, unfortunately for me, a Class A skeptic. Assuming that I use the proper fluid (Valvoline full synthetic Dex) and filter (AC Delco filter and gasket) and use all care, is there any DOWNSIDE to changing the fluid? I am not speaking of a flush, just a gravity drain and fill, clean out the bottom of the pan.
08-05-2018, 05:19 PM
#4
Technical Moderator
Join Date: 01-23-2009
Location: Fredericksburg, Virginia
Posts: 24,680
Why would you routinely change ATF cooling lines? Never heard of such a thing. If the seals are leaking replace them.
No downside to changing it, just a waste of money and environmentally irresponsible. And I hate having ATF dripping into my armpit.
The reason there is no need to change it is that the trans is designed to be environmentally friendly and uses synthetic oil that has a very long life. Dexron VI is not optional.
No downside to changing it, just a waste of money and environmentally irresponsible. And I hate having ATF dripping into my armpit.
The reason there is no need to change it is that the trans is designed to be environmentally friendly and uses synthetic oil that has a very long life. Dexron VI is not optional.
08-05-2018, 05:56 PM
#5
Actually, I agree. I was not espousing changing the lines, just asking the question.
Kinda hard to make a case for "environmental irresponsibility" (Lord, I hate that condescending phrase) when you're swapping synthetic fluids, but to each his own, I guess.... The Dex is already purchased, as well as the filter and gasket, so I will proceed with the change out, making sure to recycle the old fluid.
Kinda hard to make a case for "environmental irresponsibility" (Lord, I hate that condescending phrase) when you're swapping synthetic fluids, but to each his own, I guess.... The Dex is already purchased, as well as the filter and gasket, so I will proceed with the change out, making sure to recycle the old fluid.
08-05-2018, 08:05 PM
#6
Administrator
Join Date: 10-13-2011
Location: Welland,Ont Canada
Posts: 36,485
The transmission cooling lines do not require changing unless they are leaking, very rare.
I’m inclined to change the transmission fluid and filter when I change the Dexcool. Every 5 years
However that’s my preference and prerogative, cause, it’s my HHR and money.
It’s at 438,000 klms or 277,000 miles, so I think I’m doing something right!
I’m inclined to change the transmission fluid and filter when I change the Dexcool. Every 5 years
However that’s my preference and prerogative, cause, it’s my HHR and money.
It’s at 438,000 klms or 277,000 miles, so I think I’m doing something right!
08-05-2018, 09:22 PM
#8
Technical Moderator
Join Date: 01-23-2009
Location: Fredericksburg, Virginia
Posts: 24,680
ECOtec. stands for economical & ecofriendly. That's the reason for long fluid change intervals, less polluting more economic.
Dirty synthetic fluids pollute at least as much as dirty natural fluids and use as much natural resources. I don't get that point.
I am not a tree hugger, but I can see a very easy case for ecologic responsibility.
Be sure to dump your used fluids down a storm drain, if you can't find a good creek.
Dirty synthetic fluids pollute at least as much as dirty natural fluids and use as much natural resources. I don't get that point.
I am not a tree hugger, but I can see a very easy case for ecologic responsibility.
Be sure to dump your used fluids down a storm drain, if you can't find a good creek.
08-05-2018, 09:30 PM
#9
Administrator
Join Date: 10-13-2011
Location: Welland,Ont Canada
Posts: 36,485
I take my used auto fluids to a recycling centre, just south of town. Along with my used filters.
08-05-2018, 10:21 PM
#10
I have driven strictly four-cylinder automobiles for the last fifty years. I have ALWAYS recycled my used fluids and filters. I maintain my vehicles so that they consume the minimal amount of fuel. I will not be lectured to by ANYBODY on my environmental responsibility, especially you. Dump them in the creek, indeed.
Last edited by Oldblue; 08-06-2018 at 06:01 AM. Reason: Removed derogatory slang, let’s play nicely.