An Automatic transmission relies on Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) to cool, lubricate and clean internal components, as well as deliver the force that makes it possible to shift gears in the first place.
Your owner's manual may suggest that transmission fluids can last for the life of the vehicle under "normal" operating conditions, but common situations like stop-and-go traffic are considered "severe". The fluid should typically be replaced every two years or 48,000 km in these environments.

Recommended Maintenance

• Replace automatic transmission fluid and filter every 2 years or 48,000 km

Maintenance tips

• Flushing and filling the transmission will remove more contaminants than a simple draining.
• Transmission fluids- with names such as Dexron III/Mercon V, ATF+4 or Type F - are designed for specific vehicles. Your owner's manual or transmission dipstick will recommend a specific formula.
• Towing and severe driving conditions such as quick stops and starts, steep hills and spinning wheels can all generate heat - and heat is the transmission fluid's biggest enemy. If you regularly expose your vehicle to these severe conditions, consider a premium fluid such as a synthetic formula.

Keep it clean
Replace your transmission filter whenever you change your transmission fluid. The filter captures contaminants such as the metal shavings that are generated under normal operating conditions. It can even trap broken parts that could lead to bigger problems if they're allowed to travel through the transmission.