May 1990

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Dear Tom and Ray:
Each time I get my oil changed, the mechanic suggests I change the transmission fluid too. He says it should be done every 15,000 miles at a cost of 39 dollars. Do you agree with his advice and is the price reasonable?
Fred

RAY: It sounds like your mechanic is making payments on a boat, Fred. The price is reasonable, but he's suggesting you change the transmission fluid about twice as often as is necessary.

TOM: For automatic transmissions, we recommend changing the fluid every two years or 30,000 miles. See if you can strike a bargain with this guy. Tell him you'll do it every 15,000, but only if takes you out fishing a couple of times this summer.

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© 2006 by Tom and Ray Magliozzi and Doug Berman. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

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Auto repairs can be costly! Save money by ordering Tom and Ray's pamphlet: "Ten Ways You May Be Ruining Your Car Without Even Knowing It!" To order, send (check or money order) to Ruin, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475. You can also order online.