Hi all,

I am an owner of an '06 Saturn Vue, 3.5L V6. I recently replaced my CV axles and noticed my transmission fluid is quite dark. I bought the car at 180k, and it is now almost at 280k. I have never replaced the transmission fluid, nor am I positive the previous owners did. I am considering doing a gradual drain and fill of old/new fluid over time to be gentle on the system (avoiding a fluid flush).

I have heard conflicting opinions through a quick google search. Some sources say leave it, because it will actually make it worse, others say its safe to do the drain and fill gently over time.

I am stuck with the dilemma of trying to preserve my transmission to last a long time by taking care of the fluid, and actually having my transmission quit on me because I chose to mess with it.

Has anyone faced a similar dilemma? What was the consensus (leave the current fluid or replace)? Did it work?

Any advice, comments, or other similar shared experiences are welcome.

Thank you kindly.