At certain time intervals, the transmission fluid must be drained and replaced; before doing this, it is best to ensure that the fluid is hot by driving the car for 15 to 20 minutes. Before beginning, obtain the correct transmission fluid and filter (if necessary). Note that you generally do not need a filter for most models with drain plugs. Among other tools, jackstands for supporting the vehicle, a drain pan which can hold at least eight pints, newspapers, and clean rags. Raise the vehicle securely on jackstands, then position the drain pan and tools underneath it away from the hot exhaust. If a model has a drain plug, place the pan under the drain plug located in the transmission pan. Remove the plug and allow the fluid to forcefully drain out. Reinstall the plug. For models lacking drain plugs, place the drain pan at the back of the transmission pan. Loosen and remove the front pan bolts, then the rest of the bolts, and pry the back of the pan loose. Once it has been drained, the filter retaining bolts can be removed to lower the filter (residual oil). Refix the new filter by tightening the bolts. Remove the gasket surface of the transmission, drain the remaining oil from the pan, clean the pan with solvent and dry it with compressed air. Pan magnet should be installed below the filter. To the transmission case side of the new gasket, apply a thin layer of RTV sealant; clean the gasket surface on the pan (apply sealant here) and position the new gasket; install the pan with the bolts and progressively tighten them, making sure not to over-torque any of the bolts. Bring the down the vehicle and fill through the filler tube with the new automatic transmission fluid, (slightly lower than drained amount). With the transmission in Park and the parking brake set, run the engine at a fast idle without racing it,Then move the gear selector through each range and back to Park. Check the fluid level and add more fluid if necessary; do not overfill. Finally, check for leaks under the vehicle in the first few miles of driving.