2013 Encore transmission drain and fill

[Dno36]

Completely agree TNAB,
Every 30K or 2 years for transmission fluid is very normal.

The new synthetic fluids themselves may be able to go extreme mileage, but the contaminates that get discharged into the fluid from normal transmission operation cannot get out, unless you drain it out!
That is why it gets dark.

I have been adding a small neo-magnet to the 7/16 drain bolt, (the bolt has no magnet), to help gather little metal bits and paste when draining.

Good posts guys!
Have a great Christmas.
D.

 

[DanVB1]

I've read all the posts, here is my 2 cents:
The Encore transmission is a joint venture between GM and Ford, the 6T40/6F35. Many vehicles use this transmission, in several upgrades.
There are two ways you can change the transmission fluid, each works well.
1 - Drain and refill every 10-15,000 miles or so. Probably yearly.
2 - Drain and refill at 30-35,000 intervals, 3-4X to get the maximum amount of old fluid out. I made a spreadsheet that calculates the % new for each time you drain the fluid. 4X gets you about 90% fresh.
I use a 4-quart painter's bucket, about 4 quarts come out. Refill whatever came out. I talked to some GM techs I met at the autoparts store, they told me that's what they do at the dealership. The bucket has graduations so you can get pretty close.
Use the side level plug for the best accuracy, I did not have the temperature tool but got the vehicle up to operating temp and did it that way. I changed the fluid on my wife's Verano with basically the same unit, but never checked the level at the side plug. It shifts fine.
Changing fluids is the best way to get the maximum life out of components, it never hurts. I regularly do engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, brake fluid and power steering fluid on my other car. Synthetics where applicable.
Also, I recommend Lubegard, red or platinum. I've heard some good things about these and use the blue in my engine as well.
Changing the transmission fluid on the Encore is an easy job, don't be intimidated!