What services are included in a tune-up?

Question

I was arguing with my mom about transmission fluid. She never checked but thinks that all oil/fluid changes are included in the regular tune-ups she has. I thought they don't change regular oil or transmission fluid. I haven't had a tune-up on my car (as I just got it) so I don't know for sure.

If they don't change transmission fluid my mom REALLY needs to get it changed (because that'd mean she's never changed it and it's a 1999 Honda she bought new... eep!).

Answer 1

Yikes! Before you have it serviced read on....

A transmission flush is normally not included in a tune up unless you buy a package that comes with it. Since a tune up is suggested in less intervals then a trans flush.

If she has not ever changed the fluid in it, and it is high mileage don't. If it ain't broke, don't fix it. The seals in the transmission in time swell and the gunk in the transmission actually helps to keep the seals holding pressure in a transmission that has been ignored.

In many cases, when you get your first service after 120-150,000 miles complete transmission failure occurs soon after that.

Auto transmissions monitor the CVI by computer (clutch volume index) this actually "learns" your driving habits. The more wore out the transmission is, the higher the CVI because it takes more fluid to fill the clutch volumes. Old transmission fluid is thicker, if you pump in new fluid it will take more volume and your computer may not be able to negotiate the sudden change, this would start erratic shifts and could ultimately lead to your transmissions demise.

Anyone who tells you different, better trust them. They could either not know or just be after your money.