hey guys, I read the tech article showing how to change the ATF on the lexus. I was wondering if it was the same thing? thanks And also, is there a good way to measure how much fluid actually comes out? maybe i should drai it into a measuring cup or a beaker? thanks in advance guys.

 

should say in the owners manual

 

When I drained mine I started with a clean and dry container then measured how much came out then added that same amount back in. It's kinda strange not changing the filter/screen while doing a trans fluid change. Just make sure to use the Tech IV stuff from the dealer. There are no other fluids that I could find that were 100% compatable for use in Scions.

 

alright another question... the drain plug for the auto tranny fluid seems to be "indented". the oil drain sticks out while the tranny plug seems to be a large "hex" that is indented into the tranny pan. can anyone help me on this? thanks

 

You must use a 10mm hex head socket on the plug. I think they did that so the average person wouldn't try changing their own fluid. Also, let it drain till it stops dripping. It's amazing how long it will keep going and how much more fluid comes out. Incase you haven't gotten the fluid yet be prepared, it's pricey. It's like 25 bucks for a gallon can and you'll use between 3 and 4 quarts of it. Good luck!

 

that's it!!!!! i got the ATF fluid already. I WAS looking at the right thing.. DAMNIT! I have to buy my hex bit now.. i can't believe my toolkit doesn't come with one!!! BOO...

 

I went and got a whole set cause I use them all the time on my motorcycles anyhow. I think you can buy just the 10mm one at AutoZone tho.

 

thank you so much! yea i picked up the ATF already. i bough 4 quarts of it @ like 6.60 or something a quart. It's much cheaper than the 79.99 that the dealer wanted to charge me for this... i have a standard(not metric) hex set... i wonder if i can fudge it.. if not i'll justbuy the part.

 

The closest size in standard is 3/8 and it's too sloppy. Consider it free tools paid for out of your savings.

 

This helps a lot thanks! Any idea on the cost of the internal filter?

 

Never need to change it if it even has one. I could not find a part # anywhere.

 

Genuine Toyota T-IV is the only approved fluid for this transmission. Your local Toyota dealership can sell it to you for $5.00/qt, less if you purchase a case. With a little negotiating, I've had luck getting offers of $48/case.

AMSOIL ATF is the only automatic transmission fluid I'd consider using, but I'd play it safe and stick with the genuine T-IV at least through the warranty period.

There IS an internal media filter in this unit, and replacements can be purchased from bulkpart or under the Purolator brand. The filter is designed to last the life of the unit (150-200k miles) and I wouldn't even consider servicing it until 100k miles. Keep the fluid drained and refilled every 25-30k miles and you'll be fine.

 

I'm bumping this from work so I can find it again at home.

 

Hmm, that's odd, that purolator knows more than the people who engineered the transmission. I looked in the service manual for the tC and it doesn't show a filter at all! Just two magnets attached to the pan to grab things as they float by. So I don't know who's been telling you such misinformation, but it's not true. People will be dropping their pans and finding nothing but 2 magnets in there.

 

The dealer told me the same thing today about the filter designed to last the life of the unit. The filter is just a mesh screen that is easily cleaned with brake cleaner and i will just be changing the fluid in mine this weekend and not even worry about dropping the pan.

 

Just change the fluid every 30 K with Tech IV Toyota stuff and be done with it.

 

yes but change it while the transmission fluid is hot or cold?

 

Just slightly warm will be fine. You don't want to burn your fingers.

 

so just like an oil change, run the car, let it cool slightly..

 

bumping this up so i can remember to do it next weekend