Automatic fluid exchange

I own an automatic 2008 Honda Accord. I recently looked at its history file and discovered that, at 11 years-old and 95,000 miles, it’s never had a gearbox fluid change. The fluid is bright pink and at the correct level. Should I change it or delegate the task to a Honda dealer? Nick Williams, via email

It’s probably the perfect time for a change. Honda recommends its own DW-1 fluid. It’s a DIY task, as long as you can raise the car on four axle stands. You’ll need three litres of DW-1 and a replacement sealing washer for the magnetic drain plug. Warm up the transmission by driving, leave it idling until the electric fan cuts in, then turn off the engine. Remove the dipstick. Remove the drain plug and let the fluid drain out. Replace with a new washer. Add 2.5 litres of new fluid via the dipstick hole using a funnel and extension tube.

Replace the dipstick. Start the engine and run through all gear positions with the footbrake on, leaving the shifter in each position for a few seconds. Take the car for a run and again park and let the fan cut in. Turn off the engine and check the fluid level on the dipstick. Top it up if required. There is an external filter in the line to the gearbox oil-cooler – but this is a ‘for life’ item that doesn’t appear in the service schedule.

This is only a partial oil change. About twice as much again is bound up in the torque converter. If you want to change all the fluid, you’ll need to repeat the operation at least three times. Since your fluid appears pristine, we wouldn’t worry too much.