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Jim Grant's Tech Tips
'99
Honda Accord
Q:
I have a '99 Honda Accord LX with 94K, which I bought 2
months ago. I don't know if the transmission fluid was changed
or not. Should I change it and how often should I change
the transmission fluid?
Mario
A:
Honda would like you to service/replace the transmission fluid in your
Accord every 30K. Because the vehicle is new to you and the service
history is unknown, I would suggest starting a new service/maintenance
base line. Items such as a transmission flush, oil & filter and
cooling system service are affordable maintenance in comparison to the
damage that the lack of proper maintenance can cost. Then you have
the relief of clearing your mind of those maintenance doubts. When
having your transmission flushed, be sure to use transmission oil that
meets Honda's requirements or is g enuine Honda Premium Formula
Automatic Transmission Fluid. A Dexron III ATF can be used but is
suggested as being a temporary replacement. Using the wrong
transmission oil can affect shift quality. With all that worry off
your mind I'm going to put something else in it for you to think
about. At 105k miles Honda would like to see you replace the timing
belt. Don't let this service drop off your radar. There is no room
for a mistimed engine valve or valves to clear a piston in these
engines. A timing belt failure could be a monetarily challenging
event. You have a great car, and with the right care, provide many
good miles of service.
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