Drained and replaced originally at 60K. It came out practically black. Decided 60K was way too long so I did it again at 90K. Came out clear and pink. I figured perhaps it was initial break in material that had made it so dark the first time. So I decided I'd never do it again. But 80K later I was getting antsy and decided maybe I'd better do it after all. Did it yesterday. Came out clear and pink. Looked new. So this time I really am done.......unless maybe I decide to do it again in another 150K
Changed mine at 34k was slightly off pink, then again at 64 and was very pink. Sounds like the initial fluid takes the most abuse. Chuck iPhone ?
It depends on the service factors. If the car gets more transmission stress (hills, heat, towing...) then being proactive with fluid change is cheap insurance.
Cheap insurance, get to use wrenches, stay out of spouse's hair, what can go wrong? Thanks much for the report(s). Very useful.
Changed mine at 5,000 miles and was already showing signs of wear. Moved to a better 100% synthetic trans fluid then. Changed it again at 35,000 miles and had a UOA done posted above in the transaxle draft sticky and although the fluid was getting darker still showed excellent wear numbers so the earlier the better. Appears most of the wear happens in the first 10,000 miles as all the gears and the chain breaks in. Remember the differential gears are in that box too and they tend to work quite hard. Same with the engine I bet. The engine I moved over to M1 at 900 miles. But like Nh70 posts there is a concern about severe duty which should accelerate any maintenance schedule.
