auto trans service 2003
 

Manual for 2003 MPV says auto trans service (ie fluid or filter change) is not required. I find that hard to believe, having been taught that changing trans fluid is key to long transmission life. What's the CW of this group? Have others changed the auto trans fluid in their MPVs? My 03 is five speed auto and I think this was the first year for that trans. Thanks for input. Tom in Colorado

RE: auto trans service 2003
 

You are very right in that changing the fluid is key to long life Tom. The fact that it is not mentioned in the maintenance is a shame. Most manufactures have eliminated this important service in an effort to reduce the yearly maintenance cost reports that unfortunately many people use to help determine which vehicle they would potentially purchase.
If the transmission fluid was never meant to be serviced then why did they put an oil drain plug in the bottom of the case??:eek:

RE: auto trans service 2003
 

I just had mine flushed. It cost $120 but a new tranny is $2000. Our van has 71000 miles on it and it was driving fine but just for preventive maintenenace I had it done. Still drives/shifts the same and the guy who did the flush said overall it looked pretty good (the old fluid when it was coming out).