What are the steps involved in draining and refilling automatic transmission fluid, and how often should this maintenance task be performed?

Steps involved in draining and refilling automatic transmission fluid:

1. Locate the transmission fluid pan and drain plug underneath the vehicle.
2. Place a drain pan underneath the transmission fluid pan to catch the old fluid.
3. Remove the drain plug and allow the old transmission fluid to drain completely.
4. Replace the drain plug and remove the transmission fluid pan to access the filter (if applicable).
5. Replace the filter and reattach the transmission fluid pan.
6. Refill the transmission with the recommended amount of new fluid.
7. Start the engine and shift through all gears to circulate the new fluid.
8. Check the transmission fluid level and top off if necessary.

How often should this maintenance task be performed?

It is generally recommended to drain and refill automatic transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles or every 2 to 4 years, depending on the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations. However, it is important to check your vehicle's owner's manual for the specific maintenance schedule as it may vary by make and model.