Does Valvoline Change Transmission Fluid?
When it comes to maintaining the health of your vehicle, one crucial aspect that often gets overlooked is the transmission fluid. Transmission fluid plays an essential role in ensuring your vehicle’s transmission runs smoothly, but how do you know when to change it, and who can help? Valvoline, a trusted name in the automotive industry, offers transmission fluid change services, but does Valvoline actually change transmission fluid?
The answer is yes, Valvoline provides transmission fluid services that are designed to be fast and professional. We will tell you what they offer, what it costs in the local market, and why a quick fluid swap might be the best way to keep your car shifting smoothly through South Bay traffic.
What Is Transmission Fluid and Why Is It Important?
Transmission fluid is a vital component in your vehicle’s transmission system. It serves a number of crucial functions, including lubricating the moving parts within the transmission, cooling the system, and helping to transfer power from the engine to the wheels. Without sufficient or clean transmission fluid, your transmission could overheat, leading to costly repairs or even failure.
How Does Transmission Fluid Work in Your Vehicle?
Transmission fluid works by flowing through the transmission system, providing lubrication to the various gears and moving parts inside. In automatic transmissions, the fluid is also responsible for shifting gears, providing pressure to the system to engage or disengage the appropriate gear. For manual transmissions, fluid lubricates the gears and helps with smooth shifting.
How Transmission Fluid Works:
- Lubrication of Parts: As the fluid flows through the transmission, it lubricates the components to minimize friction and reduce wear.
- Power Transfer: The fluid aids in transferring the engine’s power to the transmission, allowing smooth shifting of gears.
- Cooling Function: The fluid absorbs heat generated by the moving parts of the transmission, preventing overheating and ensuring the system remains operational.
Without proper fluid levels, the transmission will struggle to shift gears, resulting in poor performance or failure. Maintaining proper fluid levels is critical to keeping the transmission functioning efficiently, thus avoiding costly repairs and maintaining the overall health of your vehicle.
Does Valvoline Offer Transmission Fluid Change Services?
Yes, Valvoline does offer transmission fluid change services. As one of the most trusted names in the automotive care industry, Valvoline is well-known for its high-quality oil and fluid services. Whether you’re driving an automatic or manual transmission vehicle, Valvoline provides both fluid changes and flushes, ensuring your vehicle stays in optimal condition.
Valvoline’s service process involves draining the old transmission fluid and replacing it with fresh, high-quality fluid suited for your vehicle’s make and model. This service is crucial for extending the life of your transmission and improving overall performance.
This speed makes it a popular choice for busy professionals in Torrance who need to maintain their vehicle without derailing their entire afternoon. By focusing on express maintenance, they provide a middle ground between a full-service mechanic and the high prices of a franchised dealership.
Valvoline Transmission Fluid Change Process
Getting a transmission fluid change at Valvoline is straightforward and efficient. Here’s what typically happens during the process:
Step-by-Step Process of a Transmission Fluid Change at Valvoline:
- Inspection: The technician will first inspect your vehicle’s transmission fluid, checking its level and condition.
- Draining the Old Fluid: The old transmission fluid is drained from your vehicle’s transmission system. This step removes any dirty or contaminated fluid that may have been circulating in the system.
- Replacing the Filter: In some cases, the transmission filter may also be replaced to ensure that the new fluid remains clean and free of contaminants.
- Adding New Fluid: Fresh, high-quality transmission fluid is added, tailored to your vehicle’s specific needs.
- Testing: The technician will test the system, checking for leaks and ensuring that the fluid is circulating properly.
Valvoline ensures that your vehicle receives top-notch care during the fluid change process. Their experienced technicians will perform a thorough job to help extend the life of your transmission system.
Fluid Exchange vs. Traditional Flush: What to Expect
When you ask for a transmission service at Valvoline, you are usually getting a professional fluid exchange rather than a high-pressure flush. A traditional flush uses external pressure to force fluid through the system, which some experts worry can dislodge debris and cause clogs. In contrast, Valvoline typically uses the transmission’s own pump or a vacuum-assist machine to gently swap out the old, burnt fluid for fresh, high-quality Valvoline ATF.
This process is highly effective because it replaces nearly 100% of the fluid, including the large amount trapped inside the torque converter that a standard drain and fill at home would miss. It is a thorough way to refresh the entire hydraulic system without the risks associated with high-pressure cleaning.
Understanding the 20-Minute Express Process
The efficiency of a Valvoline transmission service comes from their specialized equipment and trained technicians. Once you pull into the bay, the technician connects a specialized machine to your transmission’s cooler lines. As your engine runs, the old fluid is pumped out and the new fluid is simultaneously pulled in. This ensures the fluid level remains constant throughout the entire process, preventing air bubbles from entering the sensitive valve body. Because the technician doesn’t have to remove the transmission pan in most cases, they skip the messiest and most time-consuming part of the job. This streamlined approach is why they can get you back on Hawthorne Blvd so quickly while still ensuring your gears are protected by fresh lubricants.
Valvoline Transmission Service Overview
| Feature | Valvoline Service Detail |
| Service Time | Approximately 20 Minutes |
| Service Type | Fluid Exchange (Cooler Line Method) |
| Wait Style | Stay-in-your-car |
| Fluid Quality | Full Synthetic (MaxLife ATF or CVT Fluid) |
| Filter Included? | No (Fluid only) |
| Warranty Support | VPS Service Plus Guarantee available |
Support for Modern CVTs and Automatic Systems
A common concern for Torrance drivers is whether a quick-lube shop can handle the specific needs of modern Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs), which are standard in many Nissan, Honda, and Toyota models seen around the South Bay. Valvoline has addressed this by stocking a specialized Full Synthetic CVT fluid designed to meet the high friction and cooling demands of these belt-driven systems. Their technicians use a compatibility database to ensure the fluid matches your vehicle’s exact requirements, such as Nissan NS-2/NS-3 or Honda HCF-2. Whether you are driving a traditional 6-speed automatic or a modern CVT, the exchange process remains efficient, helping to prevent the transmission shudder that often occurs when old fluid loses its ability to grip and lubricate properly.
How Often Should Transmission Fluid Be Changed?
The frequency of transmission fluid changes depends on the type of vehicle you own and the manufacturer’s recommendations. However, in general, it is recommended to change the transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Some vehicles may require more frequent changes, while others may go longer between fluid changes. If your car is already showing signs of trouble, like slipping gears, leaking red fluid, or a Check Engine light, a quick fluid swap might not be enough. Visit Torrance Motors for a professional transmission diagnostic.
General Guidelines for Changing Transmission Fluid:
- Automatic Transmissions: Typically every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.
- Manual Transmissions: Every 30,000 miles, although this can vary.
- High-Mileage Vehicles: If you have an older vehicle or one with higher mileage, you may need to change the fluid more frequently to prevent further wear.
- Signs of Low or Dirty Fluid: If you notice that your transmission is slipping, making strange noises, or if your vehicle is having trouble shifting gears, it may be time for a fluid change.
Consult your vehicle’s owner manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations, and consider having your fluid checked regularly by professionals at Valvoline.
Pricing: Valvoline vs. Dealership Costs
Cost is often the deciding factor when choosing where to get your car serviced, and Valvoline typically positions itself as a more affordable alternative to the dealership. As of late 2025, a standard automatic transmission fluid exchange at most South Bay Valvoline locations ranges from $150 to $185. For vehicles requiring specialized synthetic or CVT fluids, the price generally sits between $175 and $225. Compared to local dealerships, which often charge between $300 and $550 for a similar service (and require you to leave your car for several hours), Valvoline offers a significant saving in both money and time. While these prices are estimates, they reflect the convenience premium you pay for a professional-grade fluid exchange that happens while you wait.
Estimated 2025 Transmission Service Costs
| Service Category | Valvoline Estimated Price | Dealership Estimated Price |
| Standard ATF Exchange | $150 – $185 | $300 – $450 |
| Full Synthetic / CVT Exchange | $175 – $225 | $350 – $550 |
| Manual Transmission Drain/Fill | $90 – $130 | $200 – $350 |
| Sealed System Service | $180 – $230 | $400 – $600 |
The VPS Service Plus Guarantee: Protecting Your Investment
To compete with the specialized care of a dealership, Valvoline offers the VPS Service Plus Limited Lifetime Guarantee. This program is a major benefit for drivers who start their maintenance early. If you have your first professional transmission service performed at a Valvoline-authorized location before your vehicle hits 50,000 miles, you can qualify for up to $4,000 in engine or transmission repair coverage.
There are also lower coverage levels for those who start between 50,000 and 125,000 miles. By following a 30,000-mile service interval, you essentially create a safety net for one of the most expensive parts of your car, giving you peace of mind as you drive through the hills of Torrance or commute toward Los Angeles.
At Torrance Motors, we offer a more technical alternative for vehicles with high mileage or complex issues. We can perform deep-pan cleanings and internal filter replacements that go beyond a simple exchange. It is also worth noting that the NHTSA issued recalls for specific BMW and Chrysler models due to transmission control unit leaks that can cause a sudden loss of drive power.
Valvoline vs. Dealership vs. DIY: A Technical Comparison
Choosing between a quick-lube shop, a specialized mechanic, or doing it yourself comes down to how much of the fluid you want to replace. A DIY drain and fill in your driveway usually only removes about 30% to 40% of the total fluid because the rest stays trapped in the torque converter.
Valvoline’s professional exchange machine is superior for routine maintenance because it replaces nearly 100% of the fluid using the car’s own pressure. However, a local specialist like Torrance Motors provides the most thorough option by dropping the pan, cleaning the internal magnets, and replacing the filter, steps that Valvoline skips to maintain their 20-minute speed.
Transmission Service Comparison Table
| Feature | Valvoline (Express) | Dealership (Standard) | DIY (At-Home) |
| Fluid Replaced | ~95% (Full Exchange) | ~50% (Pan Drop) | ~30% (Drain Only) |
| Filter Changed? | No | Yes | Yes (Optional) |
| Time Required | 20 Minutes | 3 – 5 Hours | 2+ Hours |
| Price Range | $150 – $225 | $350 – $550 | $60 – $120 |
| Best For | Routine Maintenance | Heavy Repair / Leaks | Budget-Conscious |
FAQs About Transmission Fluid and Valvoline Services
Does Valvoline offer transmission fluid flushes?
Yes, Valvoline offers both transmission fluid changes and transmission fluid flushes. A fluid change involves draining and replacing the old transmission fluid, while a flush is a more thorough process that involves using a special machine to clean out the entire transmission system. A flush is typically recommended if your transmission fluid is extremely dirty or contaminated.
How long does a transmission fluid change at Valvoline take?
A typical transmission fluid change at Valvoline takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes. However, the exact time may vary depending on your vehicle’s make and model, as well as any additional services required. Valvoline strives to offer fast and efficient service, allowing you to get back on the road quickly.
Is transmission fluid change included in Valvoline’s oil change service?
Transmission fluid change is not automatically included in Valvoline’s regular oil change service. While an oil change is part of their standard services, transmission fluid changes are offered as a separate service. However, it’s a good idea to get both services done at the same time if your vehicle requires it, which can help you stay on top of your vehicle’s maintenance needs.
How much does Valvoline charge for transmission fluid change?
The cost of a transmission fluid change at Valvoline typically ranges from $100 to $200, depending on the type of fluid needed and your vehicle’s make and model. It’s important to note that prices can vary, so it’s always a good idea to call your local Valvoline service center to get an exact quote before scheduling your appointment.
Conclusion: Smooth Shifting for Your South Bay Commute
Whether you choose the speed of Valvoline or the technical depth of a local mechanic, keeping your transmission fluid fresh is the single best way to avoid a multi-thousand dollar repair bill. In a coastal city like Torrance, where high humidity and traffic can push your engine temperatures to the limit, a 20-minute fluid exchange is a small investment in your car’s long-term survival.
Is your transmission acting up? Call us today at (310) 329-9727 to speak with a local expert and ensure your car stays on the road for another 100,000 miles.
