Never Do THIS To Your Toyota and Lexus Transmission | Do's and Don'ts For Transmission Fluid

Dear Toyota and Lexus Owners. Please don't make the mistake of thinking just because you drive a Toyota that your transmission is just going to last a very long time without anything done to it.
The key of every Toyota and Lexus reliability is understanding the maintenance and performing it according to your driving conditions.
There are many theories and myths about transmission fluid replacement. Is it sealed for life? Should you change it and when? Should you leave it alone?
There are 2 types of Toyota transmission fluids. One is WS and one is Type 4. Each fluid requires a specific replacement interval and if you follow then you won't have any issues with your automatic transmission fluid for a very long time as they are truly well built.
Hope this helps someone out there not make the mistakes that I see people make all the time.
TCCN Automotive Inc.
Toyota and Lexus Specialist Repair
Visit www.tccnautomotive.com to schedule your appointment today.
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#thecarcarenut #tccnautomotive #toyota #lexus
0:00 Intro
0:37 When Should You Change Your Transmission Fluid?
1:58 What Fluid Should You Use?
3:26 What if you are already over the recommended mileage?
5:06 Why You Should NOT Replace Your Overdue Transmission Fluid?
7:53 Transmission Fluid Flush VS. Drain and Fill
10:10 Should you keep changing the fluid until it's bright red?
11:00 What to DO and NOT DO when you have a high mileage fluid?
13:48 What About the Transmission Filter?
15:11 Final Recommendations

[@TheCarCareNut]

To answer some of your follow up questions: 1- this is the same recommendations for CVT transmissions except the fluid is different. 2- This does NOT apply to hybrids. Hybrid ECVT transmissions don’t have clutches and a valve body, you can change it at any time. A good interval is between 60k-90k miles. 3- ECVT hybrid transmissions use WS fluid I will update this list as I go through the comments to answer follow up questions

[@2148aa]

Next question is hybrid coolant service intervals. Old rule was to change after 150,000 miles.

[@WinPC99]

What if your transmission fluid has been regularly changed, but with aftermarket (synthetic) fluid on a Type-TIV transmission? Should I stick with aftermarket or should I gradually mix in OEM fluid?

[@nanoahumada6393]

I just bought OEM filter and fluid for a 2013 Altima with original fluid and 118k. After I watched this video, I don't think I'm doing it. Thank you for the advice.

[@jeffer1101]

You should pin this post so it stays at the top. I was just about to ask about the Hybrid eCTV. It's actually one of the reasons I bought a Toyota Hybrid as I've had issues with transmissions before (not Toyotas) and wanted to avoid problems and get something as reliable as possible (Toyota Hybrids are known to be among the most reliable cars made).

[@amramq2725]

may the lord bless and ramadan mubarak to all off your muslim followers......what about topping off?what about taking half out and adding only half? thanks

[@35inocente]

This guy is becoming a legend for us Toyota owners... keep it up bro...

[@notorqsti5117]

He truly is. Wish he was local to me. I would do all my work with him and recommend him to everyone

[@VincentScales]

​@@notorqsti5117 I'm in Western PA and have been thinking about driving up to his shop just to have him do a MPI (Multi-Point Inspection) on my Camry and I trust my dealer that I bought it from!

[@JaredBusch]

agreed. I see him mentioned ALLLL the time in the 4Runner forums I frequent. I've learned how to do all my own maintenance thanks to this legend.

[@tpp4007]

No, he’s not. He’s becoming a legend to both Toyota and LEXUS owners 😛

[@mikegamble1457]

@@JaredBusch agreed, me too!

[@Dtrm]

Been a car guy over 50 years. First and best real detailed info about automatic transmission service. Hats off, than you!

[@tannerpickens5356]

They should pay this Master mechanic a lot of money and give him free Toyotas for life!

[@Tonyplat98]

They do

[@alucinosis]

Bought a 94 Lexus ES300 (1MZFE) in 2007 with 130,000 miles. Changed Transmission fluid for the first time (original owner never changed it). Kept changing every 45,000 or 3 years, engine and transmission still running strong to this day. 330,000 miles now. Toyota/Lexus the best!

[@jjack6896]

I agree with you on the high mileage change. I couldn’t even drive my 99 Camry at around 180k due to shudder. I was stupid to listen to the high mileage and lifetime fluid no change myth and should have changed years prior. I never flush and just drop the pan and replaced the filter. All I’d great 6 year later and 70k more miles. I’ve done the same with two other high mileage Toyota’s and one is my wife’s Sienna with 347k and still going.

[@RastaJediX]

@@jjack6896 yeah, they said oil though, implying manual transmission. Manual never reaches the point of "it's too late, leave it alone".

[@junzilla13]

You do realize that this is against this recommendation. This is why I don't agree with this video. I would do a drain and fill.

[@polycadence8482]

Did you just do drain and fill ? Did you also change the filter?

[@christopheratkinson635]

​@@jjack6896 did you change the fluid in your 99 Camry?

[@lukewalker1051]

As an automotive engineer, I sometimes am pretty critical of your reviews because I actually create the DNA and know why engineers do what they do. But this is one of the best Transmission Fluid Change Videos I have seen irrespective of automotive brand. Really puts into perspective risk/benefit of changing fluids as all cars age. Thanks for helping inform the public.

[@JoshSfaks]

So you're the one who put that bolt where we can't get it out.... kidding kidding.

[@abdul-kabiralegbe5660]

​@@JoshSfaks 😂😂

[@alansidak6533]

@@JoshSfaks you’re kidding and I’m mad 😂. I’ve got some battle scars from things like trying to change the marker light bulb or unscrew a single bolt on my egr. Engineering my ass

[@fartman10284]

@@alansidak6533 there’s a methodology called “Design for Maintenance” that engineers may use if directed for easier maintenance on common items

[@joesmith3908]

As an auto technician with Benz for 22 years I’m often angry with our German engineers but mostly mad at the lowered labor times. I assume the engineers have nothing to do with the labor time. it’s like they’re not in the real world and are probably paid salary.

[@christophermartin972]

I bought a 2002 LS 430 with 130k miles. There was no history of transmission fluid being changed. I took it to dealer and they refused to change it. So I went online and saw how to do it myself. I decided to do it in stages. Drained the fluid from trans pan, about 3 qts and just replaced it with 3 qts of fresh fluid. I did this every two weeks for the next 3 months. Silver the course of three months I cycles through about 18 qts of clean fluid. Now the fluid is almost Cherry red, and the car shifts like it’s brand new. I plan on repeating this service every 50k miles forever.

[@newmennium]

Nice work 👍

[@ertfgghhhh]

Question. Im new to this. After you got all All of the fluid cherry red, THEN you stopped doing it every two weeks and just did the entire amount every 50,000 miles?

[@christophermartin972]

@@ertfgghhhh exactly! Please do your own research before changing the trans fluid. I have heard many stories of it causing more harm than good. That’s why I did it gradually instead of all @ once. It’s been about 45k miles since I changed it last and the car is perfect. I’m about to do it again in another 5k miles. The entire system holds about 10-14 quarts of fluid. I’m gonna flush 8 qts out now and then another 8 I’m 5k miles on next oil change. I would never change it all @ once. Just my own personal opinion, but I plan on keeping my car well past 4-500k miles

[@ertfgghhhh]

@@christophermartin972 thanks. I just bout a 2006 solara convertible

[@kiwiasian]

The growth in this channel is awesome. Good to see!

[@steve1998]

Car Care Nut Rules!!!! You sir are a wealth of TRUSTED knowledge. Appreciate all the time you take to make these videos. I hope your business grows beyond your expectations. You deserve it.

[@Baker_7498]

the WS bottle has a red cap but the dipstick is black and the T-IV has a black cap but the dipstick is red who thought that was a good idea

[@jsfbay1]

Exactly! I picked that up immediately 🙂

[@chrishynes6091]

@@jsfbay1 Yep, me too.

[@Kiwi_Col]

I was going to ask that too. Seems fack to bront.

[@MJ-jk9jg]

They do a little trolling 🙏

[@ethanb7073]

Been reading the forums like crazy and this helped me out more than anything! Great videos man keep it up

[@timcoleman3421]

My 13 year old Toyota with 200,000 miles was shifting poorly so I thought what the heck. I drained the transmission and replaced the filter. Shifting much better now.

[@coopkink]

this is good to hear, i am about to do filter and drain and fill on an 02 4runner

[@timcoleman3421]

@@coopkink The filter and pan were gunked up. It’s shifting better than it has for years.

[@urdrwho1]

Yeah I'm not a believer of the do not change idea. Maybe the people who fall into the "I changed and trans dies" were already in the trans death lane and it was just a happenstance.

[@timcoleman3421]

Maybe I was lucky but it's still shifting better than it has in years. I think the main thing was the filter. It was clogged up. I believe it was starving for fluid. It was steadily growing worse. To be fair the filter was likely never changed.@@urdrwho1

[@Ch1naVirus]

Same man, did the same thing on my 08’ 4Runner with 225k. Shifts felt sloppy, like it was really having to work to speed up. Did a drain/fill, filter replacement and new gasket. Shifts way better now. Shop recommended a flush when they had the pan down since they said the tranny was in great shape. Toyotas are the best.

[@michaeltucci6379]

AMD, You’ve put me in the right direction for so many things with my Lexus. Watching your videos are enjoyable, but also have saved me a lot in standard maintenance. Appreciate you brother.

[@cadacabezaesunmundo6496]

I learned from you to change the transmission fluid in my Toyota. Good that you have helped clarify that the fluid gets dark after a couple of thousand miles. Thanks to you and your team for helping make the world a better world.

[@Daniel-cl3vq]

I am so grateful for you taking the time to really give us the bottom line and for each circumstance. Thank you Car Care Nut. We so appreciate you!

[@jaimecantu2611]

3 TOYOTA VEHICLE OWNER HERE. I LOVE, LOVE ,LOVE YOUR VIDEOS! THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTENT!

[@triathleteover5030]

Love watching this channel even though I’m not anymore a Toyota user. Very informative that can be applied to other cars.

[@bradcdavis00]

THIS is the first place I refer to when wanting to learn about how to properly maintain my Toyota vehicles. I agree that the Car Care Nut is becoming a legend for us Toyota owners...and this video is very timely as just last week I bought my WS fluid to service my U660E 6-speed.

[@istudyyou2130]

I changed my transmission fluid around 130,000 miles I used Ams Oil and it works even better to this day. The car has now 220,000 miles It’s a 2009 Lexus GS 350. 😁

[@microminiskirt]

Who makes Toyota CVT Fluid? Is your car equipped equipped with a CVT TRANSMISSION?🤔 I have had great success with AMSOIL and REDLINE fluids but on cars not equipped with a CVT TRANSMISSION. These cars were equipped with 5 speed manual and conventional 4 speed auto.

[@ashuua2909]

I have a 07 awd with 170k. Per history has never been changed. Trans right now is smooth. I do have vibrations going 20-30mph. Want to change oil and filter. Hoes your car doing now?

[@istudyyou2130]

@@ashuua2909 my car is still running really good

[@kennethwilliams4874]

Some of the most gratifying words in a Toyota owner's life is when you hear our beloved Nut say "Life is good".

[@monkeyelvis]

Excellent video! Thank you for taking the time to explain and teach. Hope that you and your family have a wonderful Easter! 🙏🏼

[@yukonstriker1703]

The Production of your video's has become stellar. Love the lighting and blurred out background. Great job AMD!

[@darinandwendybrockman7049]

This mans information has literally saved me thousands of dollars!! Thank you for all that you do sir!

[@jessbemad1423]

this man literally answered all my questions in order 😌. THANK YOU!

[@morganwheeler7417]

Never stop! Love these vids. So useful. Most trustworthy Toyota content by far.

[@edivanedevlin508]

Hi Amd. I’ve changed the transmission fluid in two of my Toyotas after watching your video on setting the fluid level procedure. It was so satisfying to do. Thanks for all your great videos!

[@eddys.razorxp6445]

Man im starting to understand. You are simply the best on internet.

[@luisdomingo5394]

I had learn so much from this channel, if you want to know about Toyota this is your channel 👍🏼

[@daved7024]

My Toyota dealerships refused to change my transmission fluid on my FJ Cruiser. They said it was lifetime. I changed it myself. Easy job just measure the amount taken out and replace with same amount. Thanks for the excellent advise. Scotty Kilmer advises the same with trans fluids. God bless 🙏 and Happy Easter to you and your family. He has risen 🙏😊

[@twin2482]

That is how I changed the fluid at 45,000 miles. It was easy and did not have to worry about the temp

[@TheOnespeedbiker]

The issue is how they define lifetime; 100,000 miles? 200,000 miles? or the length of your warranty?

[@PeterHernandez-lg2eh]

Nothing is lifetime especially the CVT trannys

[@kalani1987]

​@@TheOnespeedbikerEnd of the warranty

[@davidwelday3276]

My local transmission shop was the same, would not do it. So I did it myself on my Camry and Tacoma.

[@kueyang6232]

Changing my transmission on my sienna was only doable because this channel had two very good videos on how to do it properly. Keep up the great work.

[@greenftechn]

Driving a VW with a "sealed" transmission. This, plus your older video on Toyota sealed transmissions on my watch list this AM. Thanks!

[@miryamamar3420]

We listen to you and your advices and we feel like you're our trustworthy family member. I have a 2010 RX350 with a 92,000 kms and I plan to take it to our local Lexus dealership soon for drain & fill. As I listen to your video, the least I could say is may God bless you and your family. Thank you for all the efforts you put in your videos.

[@Krakondack]

Aside from all the great points you made in this video, the observation that Toyota transmissions are normally clunky when cold saved me from going down the road of over-maintaining the transmission of my second-gen Sequoia. Thank you, this one is a classic.

[@HLChow]

I watch about 6 car / mechanic channels. This one is the best. You are an automotive professor! I salute your professionalism and knowledge and integrity!

[@coachesmagic2886]

Always enjoy your productions and information. God bless you too! The ending message is such a good way to conclude

[@DarkLeoNoir]

This gentleman had taught me, SO MUCH. And saved me, money and to be ripped off, from crooked mechanics. Thank you for your encouragement.

[@Swizzle62]

You're killing it with the educational content so well packaged.. keep it up my friend!

[@apoc341]

Thanks for the reality check TCCN. Us home DIY can over think/research and do the services on our cars thinking we are doing the right thing(more is better, right). This makes it plain and simple. Awesome channel.

[@user-hq1qq1yx3d]

I went to check the fluid and no dipstick. When I called the dealership I was told it never has to be changed. It is good for the life of the transmission. Thank you for the info.

[@zakmoon7065]

Proud Lexus owner here! and I can say that nothing beats the quality build and long term performance of my 2005 ES330!!! Amazing

[@martindzincioloski9182]

Awesome video! It was a refresher for me. I used to work at a firestone, service desk always gave me transmission services. I learned back in 1980, not to drain the hole trans. I would catch a quart of the old fluid in a clean container and add it to the new fluid. I never had a trans return. The other mechanics did. The clutch disc wear themselves smooth. My 2021 rav has started a shift shutter 1st to 2nd gear, bearly stepping on the gas pedal. It happens before the coolant temp is at operating temp. These new raves don't like the cold. No problem when it's been running for 10 minutes. Minus 16 degrees makes this car very unhappy.

[@crazygame2724]

Thanks for the video. I'm a firm believer in servicing my transmission every three years. No transmission problems so far...

[@paulocesarcamposmartins2211]

Nota 10!! Explicações claras, embasadas em experiências e dados técnicos. Obrigado por compartilhar seus conhecimentos!!

[@thebordernow]

You, Sir, are an Excellent, Informative, and Honest resource! (When I got to the end - "May the Lord bless and keep you" - that explained it all about your character and honesty.)

[@bluesagebrett]

Lots of mechanics can learn from this guy!!!

[@hayksamvelyan]

I always learn something from your videos that helps me be a more informed DIY mechanic. Your point about overdoing the fluid replacement and trying to achieve a near perfect fluid color is something I’m guilty of - thank you for clearing that up!

[@TomBean-qf6zv]

Very informative, just got a camry high mileage and was thinking about changing the transmission fluid, won't be doing it now. Thanks for laying it all out.

[@2001Artfull]

My girlfriend has a 2003 Toyota Camry with 274,000 miles on it. You video is so very helpful for understanding how to help her maintain it. Thanks.

[@eric198457]

Bravo! Another fantastic, informative and darn honest video! Thank you AMD!

[@paulward2481]

Thank you for doing these videos. Very informative. From my personal experience with my 2005 tundra, takes ws fluid. It is a good idea to drain and fill the fluid even if it is overdue. I purchased mine with 178 k miles on it and it had never been changed. 1st gear stuck when it was cold and it had vibration going about 40 mph pulling a trailer. I drained and filled it and 1st gear didn't stick as bad and it took away the vibration cruising at 40. 15k miles later I drained and filled it again. 1st gear no longer sticks and shifts smoothly. Last time it was changed was over 20k miles ago, no issues and I pull a mowing trailer daily.

[@tomintoledo372]

Thank you so much I wasn't sure about changing mine with 171000, now I know don't mess with it.

[@davidmann2988]

Heard about world standard since I bought my tundra. Finally someone told me it’s the type of fluid. Thank you.

[@jmichael6931]

Thank you for these videos. Recently walked away from my Jeep due to transmission/reliability issues after only 90k miles. Now I'm in a Rav4 Hybrid and wanting to be an active participant in maintaining this vehicle for the next decade or so. Your videos have made that possible for someone who's far from a mechanic. I never knew how much of this maintenance can be DIY with some research, simple tools, and desire to do it properly.

[@appleforever6664]

As always, great video! I have no doubt you’ll hit 1M subscribers!

[@jbaidoo2000]

I was very lucky then. Last year, I had the dealership change my transmission fluid on my 2016 Tacoma for the first time at 156,000mi and so far so good. I will keep the interval you recommended and change it every 30k miles going forward. Thank you.

[@34-yankee86]

Best You Tube instructional videos I have seen. I only wish I lived near his shop so I could quit watching the videos and just take my car to him. There was a time when I worked on my own cars, motorcycles, boat motors, and even maintained my own airplanes but I'm just too old and certainly don't trust my local dealerships to do shit (well maybe that is all I trust them to do), so I watch these to make sure they do what they are supposed to. Great job!

[@rd4908]

I think he is talking about flushing. In my opinion, if the transmission fluid is dirty, no matter the mileage, a drain and fill is always beneficial, and you can do several drain and fill over several weeks because each drain and fill replaces only 1/3 of the fluid. Even 3 drain and fill won’t replace all the old fluid because old and new are mixed, BUT it improves a lot the quality of transmission fluid that lubricates and cools down the transmission. All those precious gunk that may be holding a broken transmission together are unaffected by drain and fill.

[@user-fn9st2fs9m]

ok

[@rd4908]

@@user-fn9st2fs9m Why so many people assume an unserviced 100k+ miles transmission is broken and held together by precious gunk? If you keep the precious old burnt transmission fluid for 5000 miles, that’s 5000 miles that you let your transmission cool and lubricate with old dirty burnt fluid. Do you think a broken transmission can last 5000 miles?

[@onenikkione]

He is not talking about flushing. He addresses trans flushing near the end.

[@VanCityAdventurer]

Amazing advice! I always thought the filter had to be changed with the fluid change. The balance and timing of service seems extremely important for Toyota/Lexus. General maintenance is the beauty of Toyotas - that’s all you have to do. All new Toyotas should have a link to your KZbin channel in their service manual.

[@purplehills56]

You don't always have to but if your fluid is very dirty then it would be wise to put in a brand new filter and start fresh from there

[@purplehills56]

I sometimes after changing my fluid after three or four intervals my mechanic washes and cleans the strainer with purple blast and he just puts it back in untill it's needed to buy brand new filter.

[@keithfox5835]

Excellent information provided here. Thanks for clarifying the way to easily know which trans oil is in the car.

[@666dynomax]

Best description of drain and fill ever. Been doing this with all my auto honda and toyota. The big three don't seem to recommend anything

[@checkupcharter]

This is a great video! You explain it so well and it is true. I have a 2007 4Runner V8 all wheel drive with 299,000 miles, still going strong! Thanks for the information.

[@moe1992]

Have you changed your transmission fluid I have a 2007 lexus es 350 with 250k miles i never changed the transmission fluid since new the dealer told me it's lifetime so I believed them

[@DocDave88]

Love the great info for non-mechanics like me. Have you ever thought of making a “check list” for recommends maintenance intervals for certain models, for those of us who cannot make it to your shop (I live in Denver). I have a 2018 RAV4 hybrid and 21 Lexus Nx hybrid (basically a 2018 RAV4 hybrid ). A list of intervals, possibly with links to your associated videos/parts would be awesome! Just a thought. Thanks!

[@ijfeliu]

I congratulate you on your honest and realistic teachings and how you are down to earth. Keep on and God bless. I got a 2019 Corolla HB 6MT just at 33k miles 4 years of ownership, and the Toyota service recommendation booklet states that the Manual Transmission fluid should be changed every 30k or 3 years if heavy towing has been done with the vehicle. Following you and your videos I am inclined to change the fluid but I have not been able to find any helpful video on how to do the change. Any recommendations on this? (I don’t want to ignore this, I love my car and want to keep it at its best.)

[@noelrivera610]

Thank you so much. I have a 2004 Toyota 4Runner with 115k miles. And has original transmission fluid. Was going to change it. And after watching your video. I’m not going to change it at all. Thanks a million.

[@johngunning2123]

Wow that was an interesting video. My wife has a seven-year-old RAV4 with only 30,000 kilometres and I recently had Toyota replace the transmission fluid. No-one at Toyota asked why I was doing it or even if I should have it changed. Plus no-one mentioned the filter.

[@thechuckster6838]

The mechanics in the garage where I learned to work on cars used to lower the pan with the old fluid, making sure that they didn't spill any. They would let the fluid sit for 15 minutes and scoop the two thirds of the old fluid from the pan to re-use and top off with new fluid. This was the trick they used in the GM TH350 tranny's from the 70's. They would tell me the same thing you mentioned in your video about slipping and rough engagement of gears. It worked every single time.

[@danielvoulkos8274]

Hated that tyranny in San Francisco on the 84 Chevy PU. Went through two shitty rebuilds there. I was doing everything right.

[@dblomvo7732]

Thank you so much for your help. You are so appreciated. You are a wonderful and caring human being and very professional instructor . I pray God protect you and keep blessing you. Stay safe. Peace.

[@bacchieboy]

Thank you for sharing your vast knowledge other us. You are a true blessing for us home mechanics. Your honesty,integrity and teaching skills are wonderful! Can’t thank you enough for you great advice ! Gods blessings to you sir!

[@chrislang2341]

I’ve been changing the transmission fluid every 50,000 miles with Toyota Fluid and the engine oil/filter with full synthetic 5w30 every 5,000 miles in my 2006 Corolla, purchased in 2006, for 400,000 miles and so far so good, its runs and shifts as it always has. Looking forward to throwing a 500,000 mile party for the Corolla in a few years. Only issue is Yellow Check Engine light has been on since 150,000 miles, no changes in fuel consumption or performance. Dealer resets and it comes back on. I also have a 2002 Lexus SC430 I purchased 6 years ago with one owner 100% full timely service records, now at 120,000 miles, which I am continuing to maintain at recommended service intervals with original Toyota parts and recommend fluids. Through diligent research I found an independent local shop of former Toyota/Lexus mechanics in my area, Minnesota, that are much like yourself who maintain my Lexus. Thank You for all the great educational videos.

[@billsundt3290]

Info on that shop please. Would be good to know.

[@billnotpay]

I don't own a Toyota but damn, This channel is gonna make me buy one

[@bobespnza-la7030]

You can buy a sweet one to your liking. Options are there!

[@kftc1980]

Or better yet, get a Lexus, if you don’t need a truck. In most cases you’re getting a loaded version of a Toyota that depreciates faster, assuming you like nice used cars at a discount.

[@billnotpay]

@@kftc1980 well a Lexus is worth more than a Toyota , thanks for the advice .

[@HB-yq8gy]

Failures from past years led me to Toyota's now guaranteed to last 10 years if you do just the basic maintenance.

[@GokuInstinct1]

@@HB-yq8gy it will last way more than 10 years if you’re not driving it a ton.

[@techfusionaz2496]

Thank you for making this video. It was really informative. Me and my family got caught up in the "sealed transmission" insanity, and sorta fell victim to it years ago. We had a 2005 honda civic that my parents bought new and drove it for 340,000 miles over 10 years until..guess what...the transmission finally died. Knowing what I know now, im absolutely stunned it survived that long. Especially on Honda transmissions which aren't particuarly known to last super long like this one did. I almost fell victim to the same thing on a 2011 Honda Accord that my family got a few years ago as well. The car had 175,000 miles on it, and i gambled and decided to change the fluid, and it payed off. Only reason i changed it is because we got the car at 78,000 miles from Honda "refurbished" and i guessed that Honda probably changed the fluid. Just wish they didn't overfill it, amazed the transmission is still working great today because the fluid was way over the full line at cold temperatures. Now my family has a 2020 RAV4 TRD Off Road with almost 50,000 miles, and I'll make sure to get the transmission serviced on time as well as the diff and transfer case oil.

[@matthumphries2190]

Your honest and direct to the point videos are very much appreciated. Thank you. I will continue watching.

[@pierreverdoni]

This guy knows his shit........

[@Not_sure5]

I'm glad you mentioned the filter. My Buick has a sealed transmission and when having the transmission serviced they said it doesn't have a detachable pan and the transmission would need to be removed and disassembled to change it. They weren't trying to rip me off. They were explaining, it's not worth it, unless the transmission needs removed for some other reason.

[@killabandit]

No transmission is sealed period. Do not believe the bs people tell you on that. You can still drain and fill those.

[@Not_sure5]

@@killabandit they did a fluid exchange. It's the filter that's not easy.

[@mrvwbug4423]

@@Not_sure5 transmission filter replacement is not a thing that is done anymore unless there is a problem with the filter or something else in the transmission. The 30,000mi filter change never really helped older automatics anyway, 100k to 150k was always the max life on American automatics no matter how well maintained until the 6 speeds started cropping up in the '00s. Honda autos were probably even shorter lived (Honda has a reputation for unreliable automatic transmissions). Toyotas would of course last if maintained, not sure if filter replacement was the norm on Toyota autos

[@ypk1580]

Took a gamble in changing the transmission fluid on my 96 Camry with the A140e 4 speed automatic. 170k miles with questionable maintenance history. Did 3 drain and fills with Dex3 and a filter replacement throughout 3k miles and it glides through the gears now. No more jerky shifts and banging into drive and reverse. Fluid isn't clear red, but more of a maroon color.

[@luke19631963]

Thank you for putting my mind at ease about the transmission filter. I have an 2012 Yaris I bought new. It currently has about 300 miles shy of 100k. I have done two fluid drain and fills and always wondered about changing the filter. The parts guy at my local Toyota dealer said they don’t change the filter when they service the transmission just do drain and fills. Being 61 years old growing up we always replaced the filter vis a pan drop. I will leave the filter alone.

[@ginoiniguez]

Very good information, I bought a 2007 Tacoma with 204000 miles that was sitting for 7 years and no history of maintenance ,for sure Iam not touching my transmission 😮 Thanks

[@usmc7210]

Thanks for creating this video. We have a 2002 Landcruiser (130k miles) and I only do a drain a fill on the transmission. I think we may have been doing it a few times too many (every 3'd oil change or every 15k). And will now do the flush every 6th oil change :-). Awesome information. Thanks.

[@rd4908]

Your old routine is perfect, drain and fill is gentler and easier done. You don’t need to flush the transmission

[@jonathanmcadams-nx5zp]

On a 2002 Land cruiser? Wow. This is crazy to me. I just drive the Lexus models in the Toyota SUVs but they are the same cars in many ways. I buy base model Lexus SUVs, without full time AWD if optional like the RX350 (have had 5), and I only buy the 3.5 liter engine aswell on the cars. Toyota/Lexus is very particular with things and they do not change their body style but every 8 years and every 4 years they do a face lift up front and in between these they might do a headlight change or something small to entice new buyers but in general it keeps you from buying a new Toyota/Lexus and a newer looking model coming out in 2 years making you drive an old body style car after only 2 years and you still owe money on it too. It keeps resale capes way up and it makes things easier to replace and easier to make parts for because they are often very interchangeable year to year. The transmission fluid change intervals argument with Toyota and Lexus has been going on as long as the cars have been being sold. The question is ride with opinionated answers and diy mechanics that think they have the answers after talking to 40 people over the years about the issue and all of them giving their 2 cents. It is a case by case basis is what I always say with trans fluid and I go by about 6 different factors that I take into account to decide when to change and how much to change and then make a plan to change it based on checking it (checking the fluid I mean, by sending it in to the lab and getting readouts of the materials and ratios of what it contains) and finally I always change it at 100k miles if I don't see any issues before then with what I look for as far as color, viscosity, material in the fluid and the ratios, smell (which is unnecessary when you send it into the lab and get the specs as anything that has been burned up will be shown here anyway) and finally level which should not be a problem EVER unless you develop a leak. I am at 58,500 miles on a CVT Toyota trans that I am about to change but it isy daily abuser so I am hard on it and I keep it in sport mode and really zip around the city and drive hard back and forth off the island I live on and back onto the island sometimes many times a day. I put around 25k miles a year on cars between 4 vehicles I own, 2017 Corolla IM Daily abuse 10k miles a year, 2012 RX 350 8k miles a year as this is my work truck and I pull a trailer too, 2014 Lexus IS350 non F sport but has custom suspension and a few goodies under the hood to get to 340hp, and finally a 2019 es350 that is actually my elderly mother's and is mint and only needs an oil change once a year and cleaned a few times a year too. My last 2017 RX350 I didn't change the fluid in at all for 149k miles and it was mint. I used it for work and ragged that guy out with a trailer and towing and throwing 4 construction workers in the car not including me and all their tools and a trailer full of tools and supplies and driving back and forth an hour and a half to another state at 90-100 miles per hour on I-95 every day. Toyota's and Honda's are the best cars you can buy, along with their luxury counterparts too. I like Toyotas V6 better than Honda's but I will admit that Honda makes a more sporty car where as Lexus is lore geared towards Luxury and comfort but barely. They both but reliability first and foremost and this is where the value comes as well, high value should I say, and before they even go into any direction they make sure that these standards are first and foremost which is why they both have such a great product. Reliability first, comfort second, and performance third. But all three of these add up to a well rounded car that is affordable because that is the last part of the equation. Technically they could raise their price to something like BMW has but they don't. They stay where they are at. That is so very good of them to do and the business model is wonderful. I just wish that both Toyota and Honda would make more off brand cars like scion and such. I don't think Honda made a different brand though, they just made different models to come over to the US instead, and gave us a few enormously reliable vehicles that are still being sold for $7,000 on Facebook marketplace with 149,000 miles on them and like 15 years old. Lol. I think it was the Honda Fit and one other. Scion made a cool little IQ which was a super small compact with 2 doors and was extremely reliable and easy to park in the city but surprisingly the gas mileage wasn't that much better than a base model Corolla. Buy Toyota also has the Corolla IM they made which was the Matrix before both cars were and are amazingly reliable and an amazing deal (300k mile car for under 25k loaded) and they made the other scion cars but they need to do a better job of both making a lineup of four cars that are cheaper options to the other Honda's and Toyota's just as there is Lexus and Acura which are more expensive. Make Scion the cheaper company that gives you more for less and take away certain things and gives you a car for under $15,000 out the door that is nice and reliable. Same with Honda. Toyota should make a sports car, an SUV, a truck, and a car/hatchback. The same goes for Honda. Both should use four cylinders in each car and have only three options available to keep the costs down to a minimum. All cars come standard with 180hp, 43mpg, ac, sunroof, power windows and doors, keyless entry and start, and rims on them and fog lights and disc breaks and abs all the way around along with collision prevention and lane assist, and airbags. But after that no other options except for leather, a turbocharger/exhaust/cold air ram air intake, and a built in monitoring system for air fuel ratios and adjusting boost a little bit for added mpg and more or less hp, and all that, plus finally an option of a package for looks that includes 6 items that can be installed one at a time or all at once and is a wide body kit that is just fender flares that are easily installed and come the same color as the car, wheels that are wider and taller to perfectly match the body kit (a few different styles but all the same size of 18 inch and staggered) airbag suspension that is adjustable from the inside and is plug and play incorporated into the ECU and harness so the option is easily added or left out if nobody wants, and an exhaust that is cheap and comes in only one size and leaves everything running nice with not check engine lights but is louder and opens it up nicely, and finally a brake upgrade that is easily installed and consists of just bigger cross drilled and slotted rotors and 4 piston calipers in red with low dust carbon ceramic pads. Make this available for all 3 cars and then the truck can get a small 3 inch lift with shocks and adjustable height by a few inches, different wheel and tire package for it, a front brush guard or bumper guard, a rack on top and in the back too of wanted, and then an exhaust and an intake and the same turbo charger kit that the other 3 can get. This would change the car community. Make a 100k mile warranty with it but no turning boost up over a certain point.

[@jorgemendoza8379]

I have a 2008 Camry just about to hit 300k miles, never did the transmission service and my best advice is to leave it alone. I was told by a few people and we’ll I listen, car still running strong.

[@TheDrAkira]

I dont have a car with automatic trans, I never wanted one, I'm not planning on getting one, but as a passionate amateur mechanic that also took courses with racing engineers in how to build racing engines, I had the urge to learn a little about these things, because you don't know and learning is fun, and you Sir, was a wonderful discovery. Great explanation!!! Thank you!

[@paulmerrill-dn3ck]

I really wish I knew this. I followed the owners manual and didn’t mess with it. My 2011 Highlander transmission went bad at 207,000 miles. Serviced at the dealership on a regular basis. They never once said it needed changing. The fluid was pudding when the transmission started to act up. Definitely follow this advice.

[@coolbud356]

Damn!! This mechanic is genius and smart. He knows every aspects of topic and knows what questions bothers on peoples mind concerning topics/ changing transmission fluid. I have been messing whole days on this topic. Other KZbinrs fails to explain some aspects of questions. His explanation is simply whole package in one. I solute your dedication. No denying you deserve credit/subscription especially from DIY peoples. God bless you. ❤❤❤

[@rd4908]

Don’t listen to the myth that you shouldn’t change transmission fluid if it’s 100k+ miles and never changed. You can and should drain and fill fluid with the sealed transmission. I had a 2000 Toyota Avalon with 190k miles that had hard shifts and jerks, then I drained and filled the transmission fluid without even lowering the pan. The old fluid is dark like tar. And it shifted smooth. It had 220k last month and I did another drain and fill. The old fluid is dark as last time, but the transmission worked perfectly all these miles. Don’t assume a transmission that was not serviced for 100k+ miles is already broken. Leaving the old burnt fluid increases the chances of transmission failure. Drain and fill is always helpful, just don’t flush

[@MJ-jk9jg]

I really love the little ebrake the previous Venza has, you press is for like 3 seconds and it beeps to hold it in parking brake, then beeps to let you know it's releasing Use it all the time to save the transmission pawl from taking the full load 🙏

[@MemorialRifleRange]

SCAM ALERT

[@marshall1157]

i got a 96 base tacoma, a 99 solara, and 2010 corolla-best recommendation's i've heard yet!

[@justinbelk89]

I had a 2013 Toyota Highlander, never serviced the transmission, it had 237K miles on it. 90% highway miles. Everything you’ve described is correct, a mechanic I asked, refused to touch the transmission due to exactly what you just said. lol 😂 But she served me well & I knew it was time to let her go before I had that repair problem. I just replaced the radiator, ball joints & needed front struts, so transmission was definitely close on the list. Great information. 👍🏾

[@lcole7501]

My wife's 2002 Camry with 164K miles.....I've changed the fluid three times already. The last two changes I changed the filter (pita to get around the frame for the pan bolts). So now I'm just going to do a spill-n-fill.

[@dp2475]

I have used Valvoline Max synthetic on my 07 Lexus IS350 and I have had no problems, transmission shifts great.

[@X152535]

Amazing video. Lexus dealer said I should not touch the transmission fluid at 65k miles or I'll have issues down the road. They said the same thing that these are sealed transmissions. Your video cleared it all up. I'll go get a transmission fluid change. Thank you

[@PaulHockey-yu8fe]

First video of yours I have watched and.. so much common sense and good advice here. Thank you.. “I’ll be back”

[@pwpw71cam]

As a weekend DIY'er whose been fixing my own cars for over 40 years, I love this channel. It enables people to do more on their own. I take what he says 100% on every topic becaase he explains the technical reason for everything he says - and nothing replaces his vast experience. Now, disclaimers aside, I bought a 2009 Highlander V6 with 140k miles 6 or so years ago. After a short while, I noticed the transmission slipping (meaning it delays going to the next gear. You can hear it and the RPM's spike). Most of the good online mechanics will also say as the Car Care Nut said, at that age, do not change the fluid as it would remove basically some of the friction material now floating in the fluid and enabling your transmission to work. Even a good local transmission shop said the same thing - so good advice. However, anecdotal evidence in the Toyota forum from people who changed the fluid as a last resort showed that it can fix the slipping. I was at the last resort stage as the fluid was dark and smelled slightly burned (it had a dip stick) and the slipping was frequent enough to be of concern so I did a double drain and fill over a few weeks. Within several months, the slipping was gone and remained that way until I sold it with 216k miles. I cannot explain why it worked at that mileage and with the fluid so dirty - but it did. I have had 3 Highlanders and 2 RX 350's between 2009 and 2016, all with the 2GR-FE engine and I assume same transmission, and I still have 3 of them. The 2012 RX has never had a fluid change and it is running fine at 185k. The 2016 Highlander seems to slip from 2nd to 3rd if I gun it while it is in the process of changing gears (e.g. during a passing situation). Mileage is 90k so I hope to change the fluid by following the Car Care Nut's fluid change video for transmissions with no dip stick sometime in the near future. Thanks again Car Care Nut!

[@MrJimmy3459]

I recently changed the original Transmission fluid on my 2011 Lexus ES350 at 155,000 miles no it did not damage the transmission it actually shifts smoother

[@HarrisChoudhry]

@@MrJimmy3459 I have a 2007 Lexus GS350 at 120k with a sealed tranmission, so I'm hoping I have the same outcome. Did you do a drain and fill or complete flush?

[@saltypatriot1768]

i just got 210 highlander and it seems to have been taking good care of.. but im not sure if the transmission fluid has been changed,,it looks like it has... but im not sure... should i change my fluid

[@henryli520]

I am 30+ years car DIYer. I really enjoy this Toyota video. I have a 2019 Subaru, I insist to maintain it myself, hasn’t been back to the dealer. I trust myself more than some stranger mechanic.

[@dannylisk]

I change the ATF WS fluid on 2016 Toyota Corolla L at 120.000 for the first time because I started to have the slipping problem too, after 2 drain and refill in the same month, the slipping is gone for now. Just don’t overthink about if you want the fluid to be red cherry. Burnt is bad but after 2 drain and refill; dark red is totally fine.

[@marybeththompson1088]

Awesome video! Regretfully, a Toyota dealership informed me that they could not change the CVT fluid on my 2014 Toyota Corolla S when I asked for the service at ~ 60,000 miles ... fast forward to today and I now have 142,000 miles with the original trans fluid. The dealer must take that approach so they can sell me a new car sooner when the transmission prematurely fails and it is too expensive to repair/replace. I will definitely be changing the fluid as you advise on any new vehicles.

[@athomewithrobin292]

Same here. My toyota dealer after number multi point inspections never mentioned fluid changes. Everything always checked out ok beside general oil changes and some minor things. Never fluids. I have a 2009 toyota camry with 170k miles and I'm worried it won't last. I planned to past this car down to my daughter in 3 years. So sad. No one ever teaches this stuff especially girls when they get new cars. But I plan to teach mine.

[@johnandrews5479]

Gotta luv it when ccn and scotty agree

[@wolfgang4136]

I have had three Toyotas since 2002. I use to change my tranny fluid every 40 to 50 thousand miles. In the past ten years the dealerships in two different states have told me that the fluid is lifetime!! This is horse crap. Im seriously thinking of driving from Florida to your shop because your honesty is outstanding!! You are the only professional I listen too now. Great informative videos and HONEST. Thank you so much👍👍👍

[@Richpeopleneedatax]

My 2010 Camry has 160000 miles. Never serviced the fluid since new because the dealer said it’s a life time fluid. Did the drain and fill at AAMCO. The Camry now shifts from park to drive or reverse much more smoothly. It drives better and seems like it wants to keep going when foot is removed from the gas. Nothing was wrong with my Camry but it’s smoother now. Glad I did it.

[@roughready7491]

Yeah this guy is a bit off the deep end with the “too late to change trans fluid” take.

[@rd4908]

He was talking about flush which may dislodge the precious gunk that holds a broken transmission together. A drain and fill is always good and won’t dislodge the gunk. The question is: is the transmission broken?Most good running cars with 100k+ miles and transmission fluid not changed still have a good transmission. Leaving the transmission fluid unchanged increases chances of transmission failure

[@selektor2567]

@@rd4908 no he said specifically NOT to CHANGE very old fluid.

[@rd4908]

@@selektor2567 then he is full of it. I had a 2000 Toyota Avalon with 195k and hard shift and jerks, I did a transmission fluid drain and fill then it shifted smoothly. Old transmission fluid was dark like tar. I flip cars, transmission service is the most ignored service by all automobile owners. I had one bad experience with a 2007 Ford escape with 255k and slipping between 2nd and 3rd gears, I did a drain and fill, it shifted a little better, then stopped shifting, transmission was gone, but the transmission was replaced 25k ago, so it was not old fluid!

[@ralphcintron6195]

i have an 05 toyota 4 runner approaching 160,000 debating wether drain and fill at this stage i havwe heard mixed reviews what do you suggest

[@Ill06Taco]

For reference I have changed the fluid on multiple A750 and AB60 with over 250k on original fluid with no long term issues

[@mikehamrick68]

Dude you are a true professional, thank you for your thoughts!

[@jaya.0069]

Glad I saw this video before changing my 2011 Tacoma with 201,000 miles. Wasn't sure what to do as there is no maintenance history on the truck.

[@AndTodaysProjectIs]

Wow! This was a VERY important video for me. I'm at 192k on my 2010 highlander and have never changed the transmission fluid. And yes...I fell for the "sealed transmission" many many years ago

[@rd4908]

Don’t listen to the myth that you shouldn’t change transmission fluid if it’s 100k+ miles and never changed. You can and should drain and fill fluid with the sealed transmission. I had a 2000 Toyota Avalon with 190k miles that had hard shifts and jerks, then I drained and filled the transmission fluid without even lowering the pan. The old fluid is dark like tar. And it shifted smooth. It had 220k last month and I did another drain and fill. The old fluid is dark as last time, but the transmission worked perfectly all these miles. Don’t assume a transmission that was not serviced for 100k+ miles is already broken. Leaving the old burnt fluid increases the chances of transmission failure. Drain and fill is always helpful, just don’t flush

[@thekop9049]

Hi Just curious what is different flush vs drain and fill. I Got rx300 270,000 miles.

[@MrJohnnymusso]

@@thekop9049 I am not an expert so you can check the answer but my understanding is that a flush involves using pressure to literally flush fluid through the system whereas drain and fill is just as it says, drain it out and fill it back up with or without a filter change.

[@capnpugwash5403]

I enjoy your mechanical and electrical guidence videos. I have been part of the auto trade one way and another for going on 50 years. Mostly I am sitting nodding, or watching in admiration as you tackle these complex machines. I understand you have been trained specifically in these vehicles, so have worked on many of them over and over. But certainly your knowledge that you pass on is a God send. I bought Toyota for it's great reputation as a car to keep till I fill the wooden box, unfortunately I seem to have bought a Friday afternoon version. But problems aside I am intent on my original objective, and I was about to do a full flush using the vehicles own pump, but Now I think it will be another drain and fill, and not even change the filter. So time and mess saved.👍

[@georgebuck2269]

As long as you don't buy a 2007 - 2009 Camry with the four cylinder engine. Fouled plugs and bad catalytic converter. And high engine oil consumption.

[@capnpugwash5403]

@@georgebuck2269 RHD 2008 Rav4 2ltr. 90,000kms oil consumption good, catalytic converter seems ok, just has a noisy transmission, suspension bushes not up to the job, discs warp, rack and pinion changed under warrantee, rear door hinges crap, just not the best car to come off the production line.

[@georgebuck2269]

@@capnpugwash5403 My 4 cylinder, 2009 Toyota just burns a lot of oil. It does burn more than a quart of oil a week, if someone was to actually drive it to work everyday. I'm lucky I only drive it 25 miles per month. It was a gift from my aunt, she bought it used with 120 k miles. I never would of bought the car with it's bad engine history. Also has a history of leaking radiator and heater core at 90 k miles.

[@capnpugwash5403]

@@georgebuck2269 I wonder if it's the same engine? Mine is a 2ltr, whereas in the USA as I think the vehicles are a few inches longer they use a 2.4ltr engine I believe. Admittedly my mileage is low, at only around 90Km, but it doesn't seem to use a drop, and I deliberately do not fill it to the top as that would mean using a part of a container to top up. After the first 500 miles it has only had full synthetic oil. Its probably the difference between high tensile and low tensile piston rings.

[@georgebuck2269]

@@capnpugwash5403 My 2009 Toyota has the L4 (2.4L) engine. The problem with the engine was the pistons and ring grooves were not designed right. This led to spark plug fouling, destroyed catalytic converter and excessive oil consumption. Also the radiators and heater core leak at 90 k miles. The problem was so bad in some of the cars Toyota had to replace the engines under warranty.

[@babyshaya]

I have 110k on my van. I wished I knew this way before I drained and filled every 15k or so. I've done at least regrettably 6 drain and fills. I'll see my intervals later now. Thank you so much for the knowledge

[@Austin-jd4mc]

2006 Toyota Tundra 210,000 miles. I had a drain and fill done. Shifts way smoother now. Column shifter feels better changing gears as well as using the Overdrive button.