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Honda Accord: How to Replace Manual Transmission Fluid

If you change your oil, you might as well change the transmission oil. Read the following steps to learn how to do just that.

By Scott Deuty - February 20, 2015

This article applies to the Honda Accord (1990-2002).

The transmission fluid is commonly ignored because many assume it will last forever. In reality, the fluid can break down with varying temperatures, become contaminated with water and dirt, or leak out slowly. This maintenance task is so easy and simple, it's worth doing it for your own peace of mind. Although Honda recommends changing it at 90,000 miles, it really depends on how hard you drive your car and environmental factors like heat and humidity. A good rule of thumb is the more intense the environment, the shorter the change interval.

Materials Needed

  • 3/8" ratchet drive or breaker bar
  • 17 mm socket
  • Drain pan
  • Transmission fluid pump
  • Bottle

Step 1 – Jack up your car to access plugs

Pull the parking brake and remove the keys. Jack the vehicle up, so you have enough room to slide and work underneath it. Level the vehicle in order to properly drain out all of the fluid, and place jack stands under the car to secure it. Place cardboard under the vehicle to catch potential spills.

Figure 1. Using cardboard as a liner to avoid a messy spill.

(Related Article: How to Jack Up Your Car - Honda-Tech.com)

Pro Tip

Transmission fluid drains faster when it's warm. Drive the car to warm up the fluid and allow the exhaust to cool before beginning.

Step 2 – Remove the fill plug and drain plug

Place the drain pan under both plugs to catch any fluid. Using a 17 mm socket, remove the fill plug (upper plug). Then with a 3/8" ratchet drive, loosen the drain plug and remove it by hand. Clean the fill and drain plug and keep them on a clean, dry surface.

  • Figure 2. Remove the filler plug (upper plug).
  • Figure 3. Removed fill plug.
  • Figure 4. Remove the drain plug.

Step 3 – Allow the fluid to drain

Completely drain the transmission fluid. Connect the transmission fluid pump to a bottle and drain out all of the fluid. Pump a small portion of new fluid into the fill plug to flush out any contaminants. Ensure that you have a little more transmission fluid than the volume listed in your owner's manual.

Figure 5. Setting up the transmission fluid pump.

Step 4 – Replace the drain plug and fill the transmission

Replace the drain plug to a snug fit without over tightening or stripping it. Place the pump hose into the fill hole and pump in the transmission fluid without overfilling it. Insert the filler plug and tighten it by hand. Then, tighten it further to a snug fit with the wrench.

Figure 6. Insert the pump hose into the fill hole.

Step 5 – Test drive

Carefully lower the vehicle and give it a test drive. Ensure that the transmission shifts smoothly without any noise. Park the vehicle and check for any leaks.

Pro Tip

Most auto parts stores can dispose the oil for you.

Featured Video: Honda Accord Manual Transmission Fluid Change

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