Repair Tech
[auto repair] Transmission flush vs drain-and-fill — what do you tell customers?
As a shop owner, I often find myself explaining the difference between a transmission flush and a drain-and-fill to customers. Many don't realize that a flush uses a machine to push out all the old fluid, while a drain-and-fill is more about simply removing some fluid and replacing it with new. I tend to lean towards recommending the drain-and-fill for most vehicles unless there's a specific reason to do a flush. It feels less invasive and is often cheaper for the customer. Plus, I always emphasize the importance of regular maintenance based on the manufacturer's specifications. I also explain that a transmission flush can sometimes dislodge debris which can lead to problems if the fluid hasn't been changed regularly. It's a balancing act of providing the best advice while considering what the customer is comfortable with regarding cost and maintenance. How do you all handle this conversation in your shops?
2 Answers
I totally agree with you, Marcus. We usually recommend the drain-and-fill unless the car is showing signs of transmission issues or has a lot of miles on it. For the drain-and-fill, we charge around $120, which includes a new filter and gasket. I find that it’s a great way to build trust with customers since it’s a more conservative approach. Plus, I use a digital inspection tool to show them the fluid condition, which helps in explaining our recommendation. It makes them feel involved in the decision-making process.
I hear you on that, but I sometimes opt for the flush when a vehicle comes in with really dirty fluid. I charge around $150 for that service. It’s more expensive, but if I can provide a cleaner system and potentially extend the transmission's life, I think it’s worth it. I also let customers know that it's a bit of a gamble if there’s sludge buildup, but I've had success stories where it really helped. It’s all about weighing the pros and cons with the customers based on their specific vehicles.