Transmission fluid change cost
The average transmission fluid change costs $294 – $356 at a repair shop, before taxes and fees. Parts run about $163 and labor about $131 – $192.
Quick answer
$294 – $356parts and labor
Most drivers pay $294 – $356. On popular models the estimate ranges from $254 to $640, depending on the vehicle.
Average transmission fluid change cost
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Parts | $163 |
| Labor | $131 – $192 |
| Total (national average) | $294 – $356 |
Before taxes and fees. Source: RepairPal national estimate, September 2026.
- Labor$131–$19250%
- Parts$16350%
Share of a typical repair bill, using the middle of each range.
Cost by vehicle
| Vehicle | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Toyota Camry | $254 – $328 |
| Chevrolet Silverado 1500 | $360 – $463 |
| Ford F-150 | $548 – $640 |
RepairPal estimates for recent model years; your year, engine and trim can change the price.
What the job involves
A drain-and-fill replaces part of the fluid through the drain plug or pan. Some shops also replace the filter and pan gasket, or use a machine to exchange more of the old fluid. CVTs and many modern automatics need a specific fluid, which affects the price.
Warning signs
- Your owner's manual interval has arrived (often 30,000 to 100,000 miles, or under severe service)
- Dark or burnt-smelling fluid
- Harsh or delayed shifts
- Slipping
What changes the price
- Your vehicle. Parts for trucks, European and luxury models usually cost more, and on some engines the mechanic has to remove other parts first, which adds labor hours.
- Where you go. Dealers often charge 25% or more above independent shops. Most shops bill about $120 to $159 an hour (AAA, citing a 2025 PartsTech survey).
- The parts. OEM (factory) parts cost more than aftermarket or remanufactured parts. Ask which ones the estimate uses and what warranty comes with them.
- Extras. Related parts found during the job, fluids, shop supply fees and sales tax are not included in these averages.
How to pay less
- Use the exact fluid specified for your transmission; the wrong fluid can cause shifting problems.
- Quick-lube shops are often cheaper for a basic drain and fill; dealers charge more but use factory fluid.
How to get a fair estimate
- Ask for a written estimate that lists parts, labor hours and the shop’s hourly rate before any work starts.
- Ask whether the quote uses OEM, aftermarket or remanufactured parts, and what warranty comes with the parts and the labor.
- Get a second quote for any repair over a few hundred dollars. Independent shops often charge less per hour than dealers.
- Ask the shop to show you the old part or the reading that proves it failed, and to call you before doing extra work.
- Check for recalls and warranty coverage first: many powertrain, emissions and hybrid parts carry longer factory warranties.
Frequently asked questions
How much does transmission fluid change cost?
About $294 to $356 on average at a repair shop, including $163 for parts and $131 to $192 for labor, before taxes and fees.
How often should transmission fluid be changed?
It depends on the vehicle. Many manufacturers suggest 30,000 to 60,000 miles for severe use and longer for normal driving; some call the fluid lifetime. Check your owner's manual.
Sources
Prices are national averages and typical ranges from published cost data. Your price depends on your vehicle, location, parts and shop, so get a written estimate. Car Repair Atlas is not a repair shop; read our disclaimer.