Transmission Flush

I have been reading its a bad idea to have one flushed and one should just change the fluid and filter. What I'd like to know is how long does it usually take before it fails? It seems like doing this is almost guaranteed trans failure(from what I read anyway).

Does this apply to all transmissions not just GM/Pontiac?

Reason I ask is because I had mine changed on my 2000 Grand Am about 6-8 months ago and they changed the fluid,filter,gasket and cleaned the pan but they didn't mention if they actually flushed the trans. Surely and it a Valvoline shop they knew better?

If they flushed it it would cost about $100 more then just a pan drop and filter/fluid change.

A low mileage automatic can be flushed with little of not problems. But high mileage may not always be a smart thing. The problem is it washes away good friction material and pushes some of this into the small passages causing fluid flow issues.

I'm for against it :D

My input on the issue is that if you have a lower mileage car, 30-40k (thats when we usually flush for the first time, here at the stealership:p ) then youll be fine. Ive done hundreds of flushes on low mileage cars with no issues. However on a high mileage car thats never had a flush i wouldnt suggest it. For the same reasons Xero said. On high mileage cars a pan gasket/ filter/ fluid change will do. Otherwise may have issues. Just my :2cents: