The Ultimate Guide to Changing Transmission Fluid on Your Toyota Camry

[@OrtoTechGarage]

What’s the highest mileage you’ve seen on any of your vehicles without major transmission issues? How often did you service it? Share your story!

[@lokito71]

I did my 2021 se corolla at 56,571miles. I got 4Q out 4Q in. It been over 6 months, no problems. I also did my son in law corolla 2024 last week with around 65, thousands. Great video.

[@OrtoTechGarage]

Great work!! What was the condition of the fluid in both around 60K miles before servicing? Im glad you liked the video, too. We appreciate your support. Thanks for watching. 🙏

[@TherealDjTired]

Great video! As for Toyota eCVT transmission, it resembles the eCVT in its operation only but internally it does not have any pulleys nor any belts. Using 2 electric motors and a planetary gear set. Genius desing and a long lasting one provided it is serviced correctly.

[@OrtoTechGarage]

@TherealDjTired Yes, you are correct. I would just add that it's important to know which transmission you have prior to service and be 100% sure you use the correct fluid. CVT or eCVT units usually require a special fluid. Thanks for the comment and for watching.

[@alechappy2070]

Totally correct, exact and well explained. Torque figures are correct as is all the explanations. Works for Lexus as well.. Do not Flush, just drain and at 100,000 drop pan and change the filter and pan gasket. Then every 50K and filter at 100 k. NEVER Pressure Flush... EVER!

[@OrtoTechGarage]

Thank you for watching and commenting. 🙏

[@peachyclean93]

I pressure flushed all my Chrysler transmissions never have had a problem been doing it for 20 years!

[@OrtoTechGarage]

@peachyclean93 We regularly use the transmission fluid flush machine with no problems as well. I'm not sure why he had a bad experience. Maybe a faulty unit before the service.

[@4af]

You didn't watch the video - no pan or filter

[@peachyclean93]

@@4af I did watch the I am saying I'm used to flushing I'm going up against the guy that says never to flush them which is not true

[@jaimegomez4538]

Great video, this is a lot of money saving by doing it at home thanks so much my friend god bless you!

[@OrtoTechGarage]

@jaimegomez4538 I'm glad you found this helpful! Thank you for your support. 🙏

[@goochi5544]

Your tutorials are much better than that of the NUT on another channel.

[@OrtoTechGarage]

@goochi5544 Thank you very much! We're still very new to content creation, only being a few months into it. But we worked hard to make sure we have the best quality and the most useful content we can right from the start. We are continuously evaluating feedback and trying to improve, so I hope you stick with us! Feel free to let us know what you think or if there is something you would like to see. Thanks for the nice comment and for your support. 🙏

[@hado-atlanta]

It is very easy to get it done because of your video. Thank you so much

[@OrtoTechGarage]

It' nice to hear you are finding these videos helpful. We are working hard to bring you detailed information that empowers you. Thanks for watching!

[@vermontvermont9292]

My father is at 118,000 on his 2018 camry SE. I told him to get the fluid changed over at Toyota. He went there and they said " oh we don't do change the transmission fluid , it's not needed ". Which I obviously BS, all fluid breaks down over time, and I personally would have already changed my fluid twice if I owned his car.

[@OrtoTechGarage]

This makes me crazy...you should be able to have requested services performed at the dealership when you are willing to pay for them. Take it to an independent shop. If you choose the right shop, they will treat you better too! Watch my video from a couple of months ago about "5 Tips For a Great Auto Repair Experience. That should help...

[@vermontvermont9292]

@OrtoTechGarage the dealerships around here are all owned by the same guy. I've worked for 2 of them. They could care less about the customer. They're trained that way. I'm going to do his fluid for him. Probably once all the snow melts.

[@OrtoTechGarage]

@vermontvermont9292 It's tough to stay in business when you don't care about the customers. Not sure you have much of a business without them. 🤔 Best of luck with Dad's car! 🙏

[@goochi5544]

Definitely have to be changed. No fluid last forever.

[@OrtoTechGarage]

@@goochi5544 100 percent agree. Cheap insurance to just service it occasionally. 👍

[@markkus1134]

Great video I use RAVENOL ATF Automatic Transmission Fluid T-WS great fluid you can buy a kit which includes the filter gasket and right amount of full synthetic transmission fluid for $120.00 kits are specifically for each model

[@OrtoTechGarage]

@@markkus1134 I've never used Ravenol. I will have to check it out. Thanks for the info! 👍

[@cardo1111]

Thanks for posting another very informative vid. Also liked that you shared which terminals to jump for those without a scan tool. This one is a challenge for the DIYer without a lift. Between the wheel having to come off to access the fender liner access panel, the undercover etc. Is the 2016 previous generation a similar process?

[@OrtoTechGarage]

Thanks! I understand most people will not have the required scan tool, so I wanted o make sure everyone understands the process without it. The older Camrys have a very similar process. It just has a conventional transmission oil pan.

[@peachyclean93]

I've been changing my own transmission fluid on my Chrysler vehicles for the last 20 some odd years never have had to replace a transmission had a neon and an Intrepid make it past 250,000 MI unfortunately the salt ate the bodies! Oddly enough the first car ever had transmission problems with was my Toyota I drained and refilled change my filter I thought I was good it still continued to slip would help me a lot was the seafoam transmission treatment that helped a lot!!

[@OrtoTechGarage]

@@peachyclean93 250K miles is tremendous. Great work! How often did you service both of those Chrsyler vehicles? And what year was your Toyota that had a problem?

[@peachyclean93]

@@OrtoTechGarage in the beginning I was doing every 30,000 that's when you were able to change the filter in the fluid I used an air compressor I'd get about all but 1 qt out that's still in the torque converter I tried doing that to my Toyota it didn't work only four quarts it's a 2008 my grandparents had Camrys from the 90s they were turds both the 93 and a 97 and they both needed motors and they had problems with their transmissions. I know I know people are going to say that's really odd but I've known quite a few other people have had the same problems does 97 to 2000 had a flaw in the suspension my grandfather's Camry the rear end broke off not even from rust but it was from a manufacturer defect. Crazy enough he was still able to drive it but not safe!

[@michaeltammaro482]

VERY INFORMATIVE. Thank you. On the 2024 Rav4 Hybrid it's AMAZINGLY SIMPLE. Drain fluid from tranny. (Make sure FILL PLUG is loosened FIRST!), and then put back DRAIN PLUG. Next via FILL PLUG, refill the tranny using a pump to OVERFLOW and allow it to level out and STOP dripping BEFORE putting plug back in. Do this SAME EXACT procedure for REAR DIFFERENTIAL. DONE! In both cases, refill plugs are accessible and visible. No tire has to be removed.

[@OrtoTechGarage]

You're welcome! We appreciate you watching and commenting. I finally convinced my brother to switch to Totota, and he bought the same vehicle. He loves it! Keep up the good work doing your own maintenance! It's very rewarding.

[@unebonnevie]

OMG. I changed my Lexus RX450h rear differential and transmission fluid with only a 17mm socket and $7 hand pump from Harbor Freight! Fluid and gaskets are from Lexus dealer, OEM parts! AND the best part is that I didn't even have to jack up the car. But the car must be on a leveled surface. FOUR quarts for the transmission fluid, and TWO quarts for the rear differential. Non-hybrid Lexus, e.g., RX350, you must also change the T-case fluid. Lexus uses the exact fluid shown in the vid, except that it says "Lexus" on the bottle 🙂

[@OrtoTechGarage]

Great job!! I'm glad you were able to do that without a problem and are proactive in performing your own service. It's a good feeling to take care of your own maintenance. It's funny they have to put a Lexus label on the same fluid... :)

[@unebonnevie]

@@OrtoTechGarage Thank you for the vid and all you vids, which definitely help people. Definitely a good feeling when maintaining one's car. Subscribed! Best to your channel and hope it will grows with lots of subscriptions!

[@OrtoTechGarage]

@unebonnevie Thank you for your support and for the kind words of encouragement! 🙏

[@roninbushitoろうにん]

Hf sux

[@Michaelkawaf6l]

Great video! Can you tell me the check temperature range for a 2020 RAV4 UB80F transmission and a 2023 Camry V6 UA80E transmission. I would think the check temperature range would be the same for both of these transmissions, but not sure, and also I believe that some transmissions have a bypass valve that needs to be locked open while checking the level, would either of my cars have this?

[@OrtoTechGarage]

@Michaelkawaf6l they are usually within a few degrees of the range on this car, but i will pull the exact information for you. Just email me and I will send you a PDF with instructions for both models. 👍 [e-mail]

[@jimn.9990]

I had a mechanical shop change the factory-filled Toyota WS ATF (Fuel Efficient) in my 2016 Toyota Hybrid (equipped with an eCVT that takes an ATF Fluid) and it was replaced with 3.9 quarts of Amsoil 100% Synthetic Signature Series Fuel-Efficient ATF at about 40,000 miles, where the independent mechanical-shop performed a slow flush through the transmission lines with the BG machine, which I personally witnessed. The fascinating results from that one ATF exchange were the following: The moment I drove the Camry after the installation of the Amsoil ATF (without any other services being performed on my vehicle), I not only detected the vehicle was running a bit smoother, but also experienced increased power upon acceleration. More importantly, my EV light was coming on more often and staying lit longer (which of course signifies my car is running electrically from the battery, while the gas engine isn't operating)!! The following will help establish that Amsoil "100 Synthetic" Signature Series (SS) Fuel-Efficient ATF Fluid is vastly superior to the Toyota "Full Synthetic" WS ATF Fluid (made by Exxon Mobil). You can compare the Safety Data Sheets between Amsoil and Toyota fluids and you will find the Toyota WS ATF (and true of the vast number of full synthetics) is mostly composed of hydrocracked-petroleum oil, a Class III Synthetic (that is extra-refined petroleum to mostly eliminate impurities, but it doesn’t get totally get rid of then entirely). Amsoil Signature Series doesn’t contain a drop of petroleum oil, but a pure chemical mixture of Class IV Synthetic, known as polyalphaolefins (PAOs) and Class V Synthetic (such as Esters), plus top-shelf additives. The molecules of these Class IV & V Synthetics are of the same uniform shape allowing them to flow much more readily throughout the engines, transmissions and differentials, reducing damaging heat, creating more power and increasing fuel economy. Also, the backbone of Amsoil 100% Synthetic lubricants have a much lesser tendency to attract oxygen molecules (where damaging oxygen can form sludge). The difference between a Full Synthetic and a 100% Synthetic? Rafe Britton, a former Lubrication Engineer at Mobil and the creator of a number of highly educational KZbin Videos under the heading of “Lubrication Explained,” states in order for an oil company to call its oil product 100% synthetic, it must be composed of either a Class IV Synthetic (PAOs) AND/OR Class V Synthetic (such as Esters), while being completely devoid of refined petroleum. Toyota lists the Flash Point of their WS ATF Fluid as 347° F (175° C), whereas Amsoil's Flash Point is listed as 435.2 F (224° C), so Amsoil holds up to the heat far better than the Toyota WS ATF. Amsoil SS ATF's Pour Point is -85° F (-65° C), but Toyota fails to mention their Pour Point? Another convenience factor of the Amsoil "100 Synthetic" Signature Series Fuel Efficient ATF Fluid is that it is available in collapsible bags making installation a snap (without the need for a pump that only provides a slow fill operation)! Amsoil also provides a "100 Synthetic" OE Fuel-Efficient ATF Fluid (at 57% the cost of the Amsoil "100 Synthetic" Signature Series (SS) Fuel-Efficient ATF Fluid), where the Amsoil OE ATF provides lesser protection at the extremes than Amsoil SS ATF with a Flash Point of 410° F (210° C) and a Pour Point of -54° F (-48° C). As you will note, the Amsoil OE ATF has extra protection from the heat in terms of the Flash Point than Toyota's WS ATF by an extra 63° F (35° C). The Amsoil OE ATF isn't available in the easy-to-pour pack (only the conventional quart or gallon plastic containers). The OE must be changed according to the manufacturer's specifications for your specific vehicle, however, the Signature Series will go double the distance (than the OE) under severe-driving conditions. For those of you that have a vehicle that doesn't accept a Fuel-Efficient ATF, you may consider the Amsoil 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle ATF (in both the Signature Series and the OE). They also carry 100% Synthetic in both their CVT fluid and Dual-Clutch Transmission Fluid. The beauty of using Amsoil Products is their fabulous Warranty, which is the widest in the lubrication industry, applies to automotive parts coming into contact with their fluids, regardless of the mileage or age of the vehicle, as long as the vehicle was in reasonably good mechanical condition before you first began to use the Amsoil Products! The OE ATF must be changed according to OEM recommendations for the Amsoil Warranty to apply, whereas the Signature Series ATF can go twice the distance of the OEM recommendations for Severe Service. Amsoil states that you can safely extend the oil drain-intervals beyond the Amsoil recommendation (for either the OE or the Signature Series ATF) in the event you secure an appropriate oil analysis (in which case the Amsoil Warranty will extend to the expected life of the oil accordingly, as determined by such oil analysis). Amsoil partners with Oil Analyzers, Inc. (OAI), to do a fluid analysis and OAI even measures the important level of oxidation in the used fluid (that Blackstone apparently doesn't measure). Lake Speed Jr. (aka The Motor Oil Geek) discusses the importance of measuring the oxidation levels in fluids in his various KZbin Videos. Lake Speed Jr. measures oxidation in his oil analysis-business venture, SPEEDiagnostix (although his cost is higher than OAI). For full disclosure (as probably guessed right now), I am an Independent Amsoil Dealer (all dealers of Amsoil are independent contractors, as opposed to employees of Amsoil). A customer of mine (a mechanical shop) loves to use the Amsoil 100% Synthetic OE ATF in both varieties for their customers, since the OE Products are at an attractive price point and the comments they receive from their customers have been outstanding. If consumers wish to buy the Amsoil products as a Preferred Customer (PC), they will get the oil at a 25% discount, plus free shipping when they spend $100 (plus receiving a $5 coupon for every $100 you spend). It only costs $10 for a 6 month PC membership (or $20 a year) and there is no requirement to purchase (as there is with so many companies offering a membership for a preferred customer program, where there is an automatic shipment involved). Also, PCs can use their 25% discount to obtain a fluid analysis with Oil Analyzers, Inc. If you or any viewers are tempted to try Amsoil, I invite you to visit the official website of Amsoil and apply to become my Preferred Customer, by kindly utilizing my name (James Norris) in the box underneath the question that asks “Did someone refer you to Amsoil? If so, please tell us.” Then in the next box they ask “Have a Referral Number? Enter it below:” I kindly ask that you include my Referral Number of 1420935 in that box. If you can write down my name and referral number, before you eventually decide to exit this webpage, it will be appreciated (so that it will be at your fingertips when you get on the Amsoil website). You can also write me an email addressed to AutomotiveBuff at my gmail address (in case you have any questions). For mechanical shops choosing to become a Retail Account, the discount of Amsoil products is 30%, with free UPS shipping on orders of $400 or more and there isn't a membership fee. When you buy $2,500 or more in a calendar year, your discount expands to 35%. A few of my Retail Accounts that get a 35% discount, even in subsequent years where they fall below the $2,500 threshold, they still get the 35% discount. I had tried a variety of full synthetics over the years. I began to utilize Mobil 1 for several years thereafter, until I found Amsoil being sold by an auto parts store that is no longer in operation. After I personally emptied the Mobil 1 and I put it in the Amsoil in my car about 20 years ago, I was blown away with the increased performance, better fuel efficiency and the overall quietness of my engine. Thanks for the consideration!

[@OrtoTechGarage]

Wow! That's a detailed and thorough analysis and education. I am always learning something new in this industry. i think that's what keeps it interesting. Thank you for providing that. I personally have never used any Amzoil products. I may have to try some after receiving this information and experience it for myself. Do the engine oils products increase fuel economy as well? I know some people really swear by it.

[@jimn.9990]

​@@OrtoTechGarage Thanks for the compliments, OTG! I was highly impressed by your incredible knowledge and unique teaching style, by effectively explaining the process of changing trans fluid, but I somehow neglected to tell you so in my prior comments. I performed the first oil change myself at about 2,500 miles on my Camry using 100% synthetic Amsoil Signature Series 0W-20, which provided my car with more pep and a few miles per gallon better than the factory-filled full-synthetic Toyota motor oil (made by Exxon Mobil). I first tried Amsoil about 20 years ago (as a ordinary customer) after trying a variety of full-synthetic oils from Castrol, Pennzoil, Valvoline and Mobil 1. I had been a regular customer of Mobil 1 for several years when I first put Amsoil into my crankcase. The moment I took a test drive with the Amsoil, I noticed an incredible increased in performance (more so than any prior synthetic). At that point I was sold and I became a Preferred Customer using Amsoil exclusively. A few years later, I became a dealer. The 100% synthetic motor oils have the same combination of Class IV Synthetics and Class V with no Class III Synthetics (hydrocracked petroleum), just like the ATF Fluids (described in my last comment). The same is true with Amsoil's Gear Lube for differentials. Before I cite further examples of increased MPG, do you own the mechanical shop in the video? If so, I can create your business as a Retail Account, where your business can obtain a 30% Discount without the usual $20 membership fee Amsoil charges Preferred Customers (who only get a 25% Discount). If you are an employee, can you ask the owner if we can create the business to a Retail Account? Being a Retail Account entitles the business to obtain a 35% Discount once your business secures $2,500 in Amsoil purchases in a year. Retail Accounts get free shipping when an order equals or exceeds $400 (whereas Preferred Customers get free shipping when they spend $100 or more). The official website of Amsoil contains many rave reviews of "verified customers" claiming increased MPG, including the following sampling: 5 Star Rating Best oil I ever used By MICHAEL, a Verified Buyer from Conway, SC on December 25, 2022 Gas mileage went up by average 3-4 mph [MPG?] 5 star rating SAE 10W-30 By ISMAEL, a Verified Buyer from san antonio tx on April 01, 2021 excellent oil , lifter noise reduced dramatically, oil consumption excellent and boosted my mpg by 3. 5 star rating Fits beyond was the manufacture required By MICHAEL, a Verified Buyer on May 21,2021 This oil fit perfectly. MPG went up by 3. 5 Star Rating Amsoil engine oil products By BRADLEY, a Verified Buyer on April 22, 2022 I use AMSOIL in all my engines transmissions and final drives. AMSOIL reduces friction there by increasing fuel efficiency. I've tracked the mileage on my two main daily drivers and both had mileage increases of two to five miles per gallon. Every vehicle is different and every driver is different so results may very. But that being said, I'm very impressed. "5 star rating WOW! UNEXPECTED RESULTSBy MUGENIZER, a Verified Buyer from Vancouver on April 11, 2024: I was using Pennzoil Ultra Platinum 0W-20 Full Synthetic for my Honda Pilot 2016 exl with 261K km in it. Obvious crackcase noise & lifter noise. Fuel consumption of 12.9 liters per 100km. Now with using Amsoil Signature Series 0W-20 Full Synthetic...noise in the crankcase & lifters are a lot less. My fuel consumption is now 11.8 liters per 100km. The engine run smoother than it was. I wish i've used Amsoil ever since. Now, i use it in every vehicle i own. I highly recommend this product." [Using the conversion of the metric system to the U.S. version, the Pennzoil MPG calculates to 18.23, whereas the Amsoil MPG is 19.92, an increased differential of 1.67 MPG in favor of Amsoil and is exactly the same percentage increase in fuel economy as was calculated in the metric system: 9.2%]. Grandpa Chuckie from New Mexico on September 24, 2020 (the reviews are in chronological order on the Amsoil Website) who has a 2016 Toyota Sienna V6 (who apparently keeps meticulous records of his gas mileage) wrote that he was consistently getting 24-25 MPG (24.5 MPG Average) on the highway, when he was getting Toyota Synthetic Oil changes at the Toyota Dealership over the course of 30,000 miles. After he switched using Amsoil XL Boosted Oil (now known as Extended Life) over the course of the following 15,000 miles, he rather consistently obtained 27-28 MPG (27.5 MPG Average) on the highway, which is a significant 3 MPG increase (27.5 - 24.5 = 3), so he acquired a 12.2% MPG increase (3 divided by 24.5 = .122). Hopefully, we can create your business to a Retail Account to save you money. If you wish to correspond with me by email, my gmail address is automotivebuff. Thanks for your consideration!

[@4af]

No Amsoil dealer or promoter ever mentions the price! Or ever posts a KZbin video showing the purported "increased performance, better fuel efficiency and the overall quietness of my engine".

[@cap8e]

@@4af yeah after seeing all of what he wrote and skimming through, I know it was a detailed AD. With so much Info you don't talk about price. ONe would normally say yes it is more expensive but worth it. or its similar price makes it even more better choice.

[@viewlesswind]

If you have a scanner that can show you temp of the ATF, do you still need to use jumper wire to get to the right temp? Thanks.

[@OrtoTechGarage]

Only if you have a scan tool that allows for the Active Test- activate the TC terminal.

[@viewlesswind]

@OrtoTechGarage Thank you!

[@HiFiInsider]

is there a maintenance mode if using a scan tool or just watch the trans temp on the tool?

[@OrtoTechGarage]

In addition to seeing the transmission fluid temperature on a scan tool, there is an active test that needs to be turned on. You will also follow the shifting procedure. I have found that as long as you have the temperature reading correct and all the loads are turned off, like AC, and fans, etc, you will get a pretty accurate reading without initiating idle control mode. But, it's always best to follow the procedure. If you need the procedure, I'm happy to email a PDF to you. 👍

[@csan255]

At what mileage should you do the first fluid change? Should you go by mileage or number of years since you first bought the vehicle? My understanding is that the ATF filter should be changed also around 80,000 to 100,000 miles?

[@OrtoTechGarage]

If you really want to be proactive with your maintenance, I recommend you change the fluid every 30,000 miles. Especially with a service like this one, where you can only exchange a few quarts at a time. The total capacity is about 7.5 quarts, so your only getting half out. There is no transmission filter that you can service on this vehicle. That's part of the reason it's important to maintain the fluid. I don't really recommend by time, just mileage/use.

[@tolentinoronald]

great video

[@OrtoTechGarage]

@@tolentinoronald Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching. 🙏

[@manypassages5506]

I took my 2017 Toyota Highlander (8-speed Auto) to the Toyota dealer for a transmission fluid change at 60k miles. The service center employee told me he doesn't recommend having it done because they had several Highlanders in for transmission repairs. The transmissions for those Highlanders started slipping after the fluid was changed. So according to his advice, I'm just supposed to drive it until it breaks, which is after the warranty period. I now have 78k, and I'm not having any issues with the transmission. However I still want to have it changed at some point.

[@OrtoTechGarage]

I can't imagine any scenario where replacing the original fluid with original fluid would cause a perfectly functioning transmission to fail. Seems like an odd thing for the dealership to tell you. We service them all the time without any problems. I don't like that advice. They may have had transmission problems on several Highlanders, but i doubt it was because of a routine service, performed properly, with the correct fluid. Just my 2 cents. Thanks for the comment and for supporting our channel. 🙏

[@kimbuck-2]

Can I do my new 5th Gen 4Runners this was and if so, at what mileage? Or do I have a pan and filter that means I can't do this? Super video. I'm hoping I get a response and then I'm going to watch it several more times.

[@OrtoTechGarage]

Hi there. I believe the 5th gen has a pretty wide range of years it covers, but you can definitely service it similar to this. There is a fill plug at the back of the transmission housing. The only difference really is that you will likely have a transmission oil pan with the overflow plug on it rather than a plastic overflow tube. There is a strainer in the pan, but I don't recommend changing it. It's really more of a screen to keep larger material from circulating than an actual filter. If you tell me the specifics, year and 2 or 4 wheel drive, I'm happy to give you some more specific details. Thanks for watching!

[@kimbuck-2]

@OrtoTechGarage I have two 2022s. Both are part time 4x4. One SR5 Premium One TRD Pro Subscribed. Thanks for the info and really best of luck with this channel! I like your presentation style.

[@OrtoTechGarage]

Ok, so a 2022 model will be pretty much as I described already. Not much new to add. It calls for Toyota WS fluid as well. 3.5 quarts should work fine for a drain and fill. If you would like me to email the specific instructions to you, just shoot me note by email at [e-mail]. I can drop the procedure with images in an email for you. Thanks for the nice comments! My wife tells me I'm boring... We have only been at these videos for a few months, so I hope we can continue to improve on some things over time. We appreciate your support!

[@kimbuck-2]

That's great. I'm going to shoot you an email now but at your leisure....! Seriously - Keep up the good work. Best to you both.

[@715glizzy6]

If you didn’t have a continuous stream of fluid coming out when your at the right temp you didn’t put enough in. I would add more and let the car cool down to re check. How do you know you’re still at the correct temp to check after adding more. And the correct level is a trickle not a few drops coming down. Just trying to help the next person do it correctly, transmission are not cheap. Just add the 4 quarts and check when at the right temp

[@OrtoTechGarage]

Thanks for your input and for watching. I thought I was pretty clear in the video and I strive to provide the most accurate and detailed information for the viewers. I have included a clip directly from the factory service manual, indicating the exact wording used just in case there is any confusion for anyone. See below: b. Using a 10 mm hexagon socket wrench, remove the overflow plug and gasket from the transaxle housing. CAUTION: Be careful as the automatic transaxle fluid coming out of the overflow plug hole is hot. c. Check the amount of automatic transaxle fluid that comes out of the overflow plug hole.  If the amount of automatic transaxle fluid that comes out of the overflow plug hole is large, proceed to step [#1].  If no automatic transaxle fluid comes out of the overflow plug hole, proceed to step [#2]. NOTICE: If only a small amount of automatic transaxle fluid (approximately 1 cc) comes out of the overflow plug hole, then only automatic transaxle fluid remaining in the No. 1 transmission oil filler tube has come out. This condition is not considered as overflow, so it is necessary to add automatic transaxle fluid. d. If the amount of automatic transaxle fluid that comes out of the overflow plug hole is large. [#1] 1. Wait until the automatic transaxle fluid flow slows and only drips come out. HINT: The automatic transaxle fluid flow will not stop completely because the automatic transaxle fluid continues to expand as its temperature increases. e. If no automatic transaxle fluid comes out of the overflow plug hole. [#2] 1. Remove the refill plug and gasket from the automatic transaxle case sub-assembly. 2. Add automatic transaxle fluid through the refill hole until automatic transaxle fluid comes out of the overflow plug hole. NOTICE: Use Toyota Genuine ATF WS. 3.2 liters (3.4 US qts, 2.8 Imp. qts) 3. Wait until the automatic transaxle fluid flow slows and only drips come out.

[@715glizzy6]

Exactly my point, the fluid is expanding while the transmission is getting hotter. Why would you tell diy’ers to add less when you’re going to have add more anyways. It didn’t take long to get to temp, By the time they go add more and recheck it will be well over 113 degrees. You’re a mechanic, use your head man. Otherwise the procedure was correct 😂

[@715glizzy6]

I lied, you missed to last step. Please cycle through your all your gears before driving

[@PeterHernandez-lg2eh]

2011 Lexus is250 awd and 2015 gs350 f sport awd

[@OrtoTechGarage]

Both are great products! It's hard to beat the dependability of a Lexus. 👍

[@marshalldavidson2639]

I’m confused. I have a 2020 se and we bought it and had fluid replaced. They told us that a fluid replacement machine had to be used not just drain and fill as it need an exact amount. Is this true?

[@OrtoTechGarage]

No. The machine does not check the level for you. It's done manually. It's just important to know that the system holds about 7.5 quarts, and in order to exchange all of the fluid, you will need a way to pump all of the old fluid out of the vehicle. The machine will do this. If you want to drain and fill, you'll only get about half. That's the difference. If the fluid is fairly clean and you plan to service it every 30,000 miles, a drain and fill is a good option, in my experience. Both can be performed. If the fluid is dirty, a flush will be the best way to get it looking clean again.

[@mikeholt1248]

What is the year model or better yet the year model(s) of these Toyotas so we’ll know that our Toyota uses the same procedure as the video?

[@OrtoTechGarage]

@mikeholt1248 This particular vehicle in the video is a 2018 Toyota Camry XSE 4 cylinder. There are a multitude of late model Toyota and Lexus products that use this method or one very similar to this. I dont have a easy way to compile an exact and accurate list, but most of them are using this method, albeit with some minor differences in location of fill plugs, drain plugs, oil pans, fluid quantities and fluid types. If you have a specific year, make, and model you want to know about, I'm happy to get you that information. 🙏

[@TimothyLamothe]

Is there something about Trans fluid that is different at higher temperatures? I mean if you're in your garage and it's 80-degrees outside how much fluid difference is from 80 to 96? Couldn't you just 'measure' what comes out and put the exact same amount back in? Both what comes out and what goes back in is the same 80-degree temperature... Therefore they'd both be 'thermally equivalent'

[@OrtoTechGarage]

@TimothyLamothe Great questions, Timothy! Here is the theory. Transmission fluids expand as they heat up, and the rate of expansion is determined by its thermal expansion coefficient. There are some formulas engineers use to determine the delta or change in volume for a specific quantity at various temperatures. Toyota engineers have determined that there is enough change in volume at these temperatures to warrant a specific and optimal temperature to check the level. In practicality, you would likely be fine to drain the fluid into a graduated container, and refill with exactly the same quantity, assuming a few things...Assuming you had the correct level to begin with, you did not lose any fluid during the draining, and you did not lose any fluid refilling. You can see from the video that this is a messy process, and it may be difficult to meet these conditions. But I think your theory would work fine. I imagine that the volume change from cold fluid to recommended temperature check range could be as much as a few tenths of a quart, which seems fairly insignificant considering the dry fill capacity is about 7.5 quarts, but I'm not an engineer and assume they have this crazy process for a reason. Thanks for the good comments and discussion. I enjoy common sense and critical thinking, which you clearly have. 🙏

[@Anthonythesider]

You should be drain and filling what ever to total quarters are on the vehicle

[@OrtoTechGarage]

This is the specification listed by the manufacturer. Use Toyota Genuine ATF WS. 3.2 liters (3.4 US qts, 2.8 Imp. qts) Measuring what comes out does not guarantee the correct amount. How can you be certain what you took out is at the correct level if you don't perform the proper fluid level check procedure before draining? It is possible some leaked out or it was not previously filled correctly. I only say this because I have seen it and it is a possibility. Thanks for watching!

[@Anthonythesider]

@ so what you are saying is if that car holds 8 quarts of transmission fluid and the drain and fill is 3.4 quarts. So what are you doing with the left over quarters of dirty fluid in the transmission. That is how drain and fill works . You still have to change all of the fluid 😵‍💫

[@OrtoTechGarage]

@Anthonythesider oh. I understand what you are saying now. I misunderstood your last message. You are correct, it would be best to exchange ALL of the fluid in the transmission. This generally requires a specific flush machine though, which most DIY will not have. You could also repeat this procedure several times, while operating though the gears in between services to help exchange some additional fluid. There is a last option that requires a helper to add fluid while you use the internal pump to pump the fluid out of the cooler lines. I wouldn't recommend that method to anyone. You can run the system dry pretty easily. 👍

[@Anthonythesider]

@ if the car has a cooler line yes , you can do it that way . That is the way i did it on my vehicles . And i also had tranny pans so it lowered the fluid in the pan so it wasn’t so much of a mess when taking it down. And then after the pan is cleaned and back on add new fluid to push out the rest of the old fluid. And filling to right amount

[@OrtoTechGarage]

@Anthonythesider Nice work. 👍 That's a good way to get the majority of fluid out without a flush machine.

[@FatTofu-pu2li]

I wonder if other mechanics know about the procedure of checking the temperature of the fluid. I feel like most mechanics will jist drain it, and pump new fluid in and call it a day.

[@OrtoTechGarage]

I'm sure all the good ones do! It has been pretty common on these cars for many years now. I wouldn't be too worried. 👍

[@unebonnevie]

Yes, don't listen to your car manufacturer and NOT changing transmission fluid. It must be changed on a regular basis!

[@OrtoTechGarage]

Correct! I always tell my clients, the manufacturer is in the business of selling cars, we are in the business of making them last as long as possible. We have different objectives. If your goal is to trade your car in every three years, no need to go above and beyond with the service. If you want to make it last long enough to give it to your kids in 15 years, it's smart to do some additional maintenance.

[@royhobbs785]

So you only change about 3 quarts per service?

[@OrtoTechGarage]

If you are going to just drain and fill the system, unfortunately, that is all you will get. This is the most basic service you can perform and is definitely better than no service. Of course, a flush is best. You can use a flush machine to exchange all the fluid, which we do when needed, or I do have a method to use the transmission to pump the fluid from the cooler lines while simultaneously filling the transmission. This requires an extra helper, but works quite well, I can certainly make a video about how to perform a flush in this manner if its something people are interested in. If you are going to exchange the fluid with only a few quarts each time, it's important to stay ahead of the services and not wait until the fluid is filthy. I recommend this service every 30,000 miles.

[@Nathan-q1c]

@@OrtoTechGaragethanks for posting this! We would definitely appreciate a video of changing the entire fluid without using a machine! Keep up the good work!

[@OrtoTechGarage]

@@Nathan-q1c Thanks for watching! I will add that to the list of tutorials to create. Thanks for the feedback!

[@mrgarrison3516]

I'm assuming the transmission holds about 10-12 quarts of fluid & with only 3-4 quarts coming out when drained........I don't know why people would buy/use a different brand fluid to what the vehicle comes/is filled with & mix fluids......very risky😬. Thanks for the video 👍

[@4af]

@@Nathan-q1c 3 consecutive drain & refills replaces 80% of the fluid.

[@OnlyMeee-ie3dw]

Nothing like Toyota making it easy to change your fluid like the old ones. Over complicated junk by bad engineering. Toyota said all the problems with my 2020 Camry 8-speed were normal. I couldn't get the dealer to check the fluid to see if it had enough or not. Too time consuming for known problems. It was easier to dump the car than get warranty work from Toyota.

[@OrtoTechGarage]

That's really disheartening to hear. I'm a bit shocked that your dealership would do that to you. I'm sure Toyota corporate wouldn't be happy to hear that either! Best of luck with your new car. What did you get?

[@OnlyMeee-ie3dw]

@@OrtoTechGarage I replaced the new Toyota with a 10 year old Ford with 12k miles. A buddy was selling it because it has a manual and hurt his knee to use the clutch. Not one problem in the couple years I've driven it. It is a Ford and I'm waiting for problems. Excessive acceleration and speeding is on the top of the problems, so far. I already had to replace the tires and it calmed down the heavy foot. But it's so much fun. Toyota USA didn't care at all. Nothing but excuses for all it's problems. The windshield wipers even started acting up just before dumping the car. They knew the block years and 8 speed had a bunch of problems. It amazed me they put that transmission in the new Tacoma. Of course the problems continued in that truck.

[@ElectroAtletico]

"Lifetime". Sure Mr. Auto Manufacturer. "Lifetime" has a beginning and an end. Change your tranny fluid (for my regular use I never exceed 80k miles).

[@OrtoTechGarage]

Yes! "Lifetime" is always a sore subject with people and evokes many opinions. I also say, call the manufacturer and ask what the lifetime of the unit is? They will laugh at you. The lifetime of the unit is as long as it lasts. Why not extend that time period with a small investment by providing some routine services. Maintenance is the key to making anything last longer. Cheap insurance for an expensive component. 👍