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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

I do, too.

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.