Have a question. I bought a 2005 caravan and the trans fluid was changed at 28,000 along with the filter by the previous owner. I bought it with 92,000 on it. It has not been changed since the 28,000 mile mark. I have been told NOT to change it since its been so long and if I do I risk the trans going out. I have heard this many times but not sure who or what to believe!! I have been told just to leave it alone. The van now has 98,000 and I am getting ready to change plugs and wires.

Any one have any insight on this "myth"??
Thanks, Adam

 

I'm not seeing a scheduled fluid/filter change requirement for your model year. It's apparently expected to last the life of the van. ATF+4 fluid is a synthetic long life fluid. Does say change it every 60,000 under severe conditions meaning police, taxi or regular towing. Personally I'd change it at 100K. As for the "don't change edict", IMHO, that applies to flushing. Flushing isn't recommended by GM and Honda at any mileage. I haven't found anything etched in stone but a general rule of thumb is if the fluid has been in there over 80K, don't flush. Dropping the pan and changing the fluid is fine. As you've found, it's hard to nail down one single opinion as gospel. Hopefully the resident transmission gurus will jump in here. I am far from that. I've been a backyard mechanic for decades and I've been addicted to forums for 8 years.

BTW - Born and raised in Michigan City.

 

don't flush, drop pan and change filter and then refill. drive and drain and refill if you see the color not redish a few times. but flushing will cause debris to brake up after the filter causing more harm then good.