Just wondering if the dealer does anything but change the trans oil when servicing the vehicles transmission, the reason I ask is that I go to a shop that changes the trans oil for half the cost of the dealer!. Therefore just wondering if the dealer does something else besides the trans oil.

 

It Depends they could just do a Drain and fill(which is what 90% of people do), how much is it that will tell alot. For the Max I would recommed the Drain, flush and fill and it usually cost from 79-99 just depending on where you are dealers are usually more. Jiffy lube or something like that will work or some reputable tranny out fit.

 

My dealer offers 2 kinds of trans. flushes, one is a "minor" service (basic trans. fluid change) for $60 and a "major" trans. service (more thorough flush/fill) for $160. From what I was told (correct me if I'm wrong) they hook a machine up to the trans, drain the fluid out, thoroughly flush the trans. out of any old fluid & metal shavings then refill the trans with entirely new fluid. Considering my max has an auto. trans, I've never tried the "major" flush but the dealer tells me my trans. will shift a bit quicker but much smoother at the same time,

 

The full flush is great. Had it done at 40K on my 98 GLE. The machine replaces most of the fluid, but 100% is impossible. You can't run a trans dry, so there may be a little left over. The machine does circulate for a bit though, so most is replaced. I know, because I did the service myself as a demo for a trans flushing machine (Auto Life) that my company sells.

With only 40K, my tranny fluid was pretty gross. Didn't look it on the stick, but when you dump out 12-14 quarts of icky trans fluid, it's pretty gross. Shifts are quicker, smoother, and less "sticky" if you know what I mean. Downshift are cleaner too.

You will have to decide if you want the cleaner / conditioner put in, or just use the fluid to flush. Many auto makers suggest a fluid only flush, and do not endorse the adding of "cleaning" chemicals. Super lubricants (Prolong, etc.) are not a problem though, and it's my belief that the automatic transmission is an ideal place for them.