greeknasty

Inherited the car have no clue if tranny fluids been changed so in wondering if I should go ahead and do it. If so what fluid for the 01(google search comes up with a bunch of diff answers) also any tuts on 2001? Again seen many diff answers while googling about differential flush etc etc
Thanks

greeknasty

Oh and if it makes any difference the fluid is red(just checked it). Unsure if its ever been changed

BDSL

Read your owner's manual.

PFB

No Need to start a new thread. This subject has been discussed, and argued to death on this Forum.

Do a search. You'll find plenty of pertinent information.

Phil.

Oro

To answer your base question, I'd do a drop test - take the dipstick out and touch it to a paper towel. let it sit a minute then examine the color, and pat attention to the center and edges of the drop to see if there is dirt suspended in the fluid that is now more apparent as it settles out.

I use Mag1 synthetic in lieu of T-IV and it works great. I have also used MaxLife and it works great, too, though the initial viscosity is slightly lower (not a big deal since it does not shear as quickly as dino fluid).

mroark

Go ahead and change the fluid, that way you will be playing it safe and not have to worry about "what if". It runs about $149.00 at dealer, but DO NOT allow anyone to talk you into to a tranny flush, the dealer will even tell you that, at least mine did. It will do more harm than good. Also might want to think about a brake fluid flush and timing belt/ water pump replacement, recommended every 7 years or 90,000 miles, if you are not sure if you have had your original changed yet. That also takes care of old coolant, which will be replaced with new when they change the belt and water pump.

I recently bought a 2002 ES300 with only 54,000 miles but wasn't sure of any service work since its 30,000 mile service at the dealer.
I had all three things mentioned above to play it safe ( along with an oil/filter change)

ES300NZ

Pull the transmission drip stick out. It's written on that about midway.

dexron-iii/mercon I think from memory.

PFB

Important Correction. His transmission is the same as mine. It uses Toyota Type T-IV transmission fluid.

But yes, it should be stamped on the transmission oil dipstick.

Phil

speedkar9

Definitely do a drain and fill on the transmission. If you opt to change out the filter, here's how its done:


If you're just doing a drain and fill, follow this video: