Power flush transmission?

I was planning to have the transmission fluid changed in my Honda Accord
(maybe do it myself). Out of curiosity I called the Honda dealer to find
out how much they'd charge to do, and they said they could either just drain
and replace it (for $55) - which doesn't replace all the old fluid since
some remains trapped in the torque converter, etc, or they could do a
"power flush" (for ($140 -ikes!) which would force new fluid throughout the
whole system.

The power flush sounds better but is pretty expensive. My other thought was
to change it once, drive it for a short while (to circulate the new stuff
through) and then change it again.

But now I'm wondering whether all of this (power flush or double change) is
really over kill and a normal change would be sufficient. Any opinions on
this?

Thanks,

Pat

 

That's what I see recommended when the fluid hasn't been changed in a
long time.

As I said above, if you haven't changed it in a long time and it smells
burnt and has no pink left in its color, I'd double change it. I seem to
recall reading negative comments about flushing the system. Perhaps
someone more knowledgable than myself can clarify for you.

 

my only experience with a 'power flush' was less than desirable with an
old Nissan. The day after they flushed it, i started to lose fluid @
highway speeds and had to get to towed. The dealer claimed this was a
*total* coincidence.
I assumed the 'power' affected the seals somehow.

my $0.02

 

That's what I see recommended when the fluid hasn't been changed in a

the problem with flush machines is the chemical in the flush eats the
clutch packs. just drain it and fill it then dive it a bit, do that
3 times. that's as clean as it needs to be.
Chip

 

My feeling is that the power flush does not clean/replace the filter if
a Honda is so equipped...

JT

 

Thanks for all the replies.

Based on this feedback I've decided to forgo the power flush, but will do a
second change sooner.

Thanks again. -Pat