I have a 2003 Hyundai Accent with about 150,700 km (93,640 miles) on it. When getting the oil changed today, it was recommended that I get a transmission fluid flush soon because the fluid is dirty. I checked it and it's brownish, but no burnt smell (there was a very slight odour to it, but definitely not burnt). I've never had the fluid replaced or flushed before, and I'm not sure what I should do based on the age and mileage of my car. I've heard a flush will loosen up gunk and mess up the transmission, but I've also heard just replacing it isn't good enough. Any advice is appreciated!

 

The trans fluid should be replace every 60,000 miles. You're almsot 34,000 plast due. Since the current fluid isn't burnt bad, I'd say your probably safe to replace it without worring about loose gunk.

 

Do it! My '02 Accent has almost 300,000 km on it. I'm religious with my fluid changes, and haven't had any issues with my 1.5L motor. Good luck.

 

The original fluid is a red color, if it's now brown, then in my opinion, it's toasted & should be changed. I've tried some of the compatible brands but have had problems with these and went back to getting the real stuff from the dealership - a bit more expensive, but it lasts and I get no residual effects.

Although a lot of shops will just drain the transmission and refill it, I'd recommend dropping the pan and changing the filter at the same time - you'll find several magnets stuck to the pan, clean these before replacing the pan. A word of caution: DO NOT OVER TORQUE the pan bolts, the flange on the transmission is very soft and the threaded bolt holes will strip easily - I think the torque is only about 6 to 8 foot pounds, so go easy.