How to replace auto tranny fluid

[CTScott]

Originally Posted by formulation

Hello,
I was told that the transmission service is a complicated procedure requiring computer connection/monitoring while refilling with the trans at a certain temp. This was from someone with vested interest in supplying this info (an independent garage specializing in Toyota/Scion/Lexus. Has anyone had any problems after DIY changing the Trans fluid? I have an '08 LB approaching 60K miles and a '10 5dr LB approaching 30K miles.

That is pretty amusing and definitely not correct. Modern automatics should not be pressure flushed, so simple drain and refill is all that is required. A complete draining would actually require removing the transmission and disassembling to purge the valve body and torque converter.

I personally have done a fluid change (twice) on my snow plowing Yaris. The first time I used Dextron IV and I did notice that it didn't shift as smoothly cold, so I drained it again and I used Toyota WS ATF.

[firemachine69]

Originally Posted by CTScott

That is pretty amusing and definitely not correct. Modern automatics should not be pressure flushed, so simple drain and refill is all that is required. A complete draining would actually require removing the transmission and disassembling to purge the valve body and torque converter.

I personally have done a fluid change (twice) on my snow plowing Yaris. The first time I used Dextron IV and I did notice that it didn't shift as smoothly cold, so I drained it again and I used Toyota WS ATF.

IIRC, doesn't the manual state the tranny pump needs to be wired up to flush out the AT fluid?


Tranny fluid change is part of scheduled maintenance in Canada, IIRC.