Should I get a transmission flush?

Question

2004 Chevy Express boxtruck with 6-liter engine. Transmission is 4LE. It gave me the code P1810, so I brought it to a transmission shop, and they checked it out. It seems that the transmission fluid had suddenly changed from normal red to looking like dirty engine oil. He said that there was a burning smell, and that he was unwilling to simply flush it -- says that can make the transmission stop working. It runs alright, but shifts differently from when it just got back from the engine shop which replaced my rear main seal. I'd really like to get that dirty transmission oil out of there. What do you think?

Update:

Update. I just checked the dipstick, and it's not as bad as I thought -- it's sort of a clear amber, but it doesn't look that dirty.

The Devil · Answer

Lookit:  https://www.engine-codes.com/p1810_chevrolet.html

Jackolantern · Answer

You can change the filter and fluid in the pan. But that only changes the fluid in the pan. You need to have it changed by people who actually change filters AND fluids by running the old fluid out while at the same time pouring new fluid in. Then the fluid will be changed! I worked for dealerships that changed trans fluids and filters for customers all the time and it was a waste of money. But if it DID need changing, it should be completely pumped out while new fluid is being added in.

thebax2006 · Answer

Don't flush automatic transmissions. When they back flush transmissions all the dirt that was caught in the ATF filter gets blown back into the valve body which usually ruins the tranny. If you want to try changing the ATF, drop the transmission pan, change the ATF filter and put new DEXRON VI back in. It takes around 100 miles of driving for the fresh ATF to get worked into the clutch packs. By the way...tranny ATF doesn't get that dirty suddenly. You've been abusing your transmission by not changing the ATF every 60,000 miles.

STEVEN F · Answer

ABSOLUTELY NOT.
Draining and replacing the fluid MAY be advisable, but you should NEVER flush it.
Note: There was NOTHING sudden about the fluid getting dirty.

Anonymous · Answer

Drain trans fluid, change trans filter, refill with factory ATF.

Do NOT flush!

anonymous · Answer

You can get a hand pump and some small diameter hose    Probably from an auto parts store and suck some of the fluid out of the transmssion to take a look at it Instead of just looking at the dipstick it self

Anonymous · Answer

Drain it when hot and refill with fresh fluid. Change the filter too if you can. Flushing is not a good idea as it's not recommended by manufacturers.

? · Answer

I agree, do not flush. Just drain the transmission pan, add the exact same amount you removed and drive it for a few miles. Then drain it again add fresh fluid back and drive for a few miles. Do this 4 times and you will have removed most of the dirty fluid.

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Should I get a transmission flush?

8 Answers