Posted on 12/15/2025
The "Lifetime Fluid" Myth: Why Your Car Needs More Than You Think When you purchase a new vehicle, the term "lifetime fluid" might sound like a fantastic perk. No need to worry about changing the transmission fluid, coolant, or differential fluid for the entire life of the car, right? Unfortunately, this is a common and potentially costly misunderstanding. The "lifetime" in lifetime fluids often refers to the vehicle's warranty period, not the actual lifespan of your car. Let's explore what this really means for you and your vehicle's health. What Does "Lifetime" Really Mean? Automakers use "lifetime fluids" as a selling point to suggest lower maintenance costs. In this context, "lifetime" is typically defined as the duration of the vehicle's original warranty, which could be 5 years or 100,000 miles, for example. The manufacturer is essentially guaranteeing that the fluid will perform as intended for that ... read more