Steve2424

Hey guys. Took my car in for the fuel sensor recall, and inquired about performing a transmission fluid change (now currently at 62,000 miles). The service advisor I had looked into the process and comes back saying that the fluid isn't recommended to be changed until 100,000 or more depending on driving habits. Obviously I knew this was not the case and rather argue the point and get a begrudging job out of it, I just okayed his response and figured I'd seek out better advice here related to our cars. I live in Brooklyn and was wondering if anyone here knows, or can recommend a shop that can handle this type of job -- and do it correctly from start to finish -- drain & fill, correct top off procedure, filter changes etc. I won't do a flush, so it would need to be a drain and fill. My mechanic mentioned he can do it, but he also said the fluid wouldn't need to be changed unless something was wrong --which overlooks the whole point of preventive maintenance.

I live around Bay RIdge/ Bensonhurst area, but don't mind traveling. Hoping someone can recommend a good quality, reputable shop that is also compromising on the wallet

Thanks!

sha4000

iTrader: (1)

Why not just check the Toyota dealer?

Steve2424

The dealerships near me are all in Bay Ridge -- a bunch of dealerships I'd prefer to keep away from given their reputation of overpriced and questionable work (from rumblings among people I know that have bought/leased or just serviced their cars at either dealer: Lexus/ Toyota/ Nissan etc)

If I were to go the route of a Toyota dealer, is there a specific brand of fluid to use? I don't want the wrong fluid used just for the sake of a service appointment to get done. I wish I was a little more hands-on and savvy when it comes to cars, but I'm limited in my will and skill in this area. Any certified mechanics here near Brooklyn willing to help out?

sha4000

iTrader: (1)

I hear what your saying. I stay away from the Bay Ridge dealerships also even though I did find one master tech at the Lexus dealer who really knew his stuff. i can't recommend anyone since the GS is a recent purchase and I don't know a whole lot about it yet other than what I've read here. I plan on going to a Toyota dealer that has the flush machine soon since the GS is approaching 100k and I don't want ANY problems!

Steve2424

Just an FYI, be careful when having a flush done. I think that method can create more problems than prevent. Usually a flush has fluid being drained on one end, and filled simultaneously which can push sediments and small shillings into crevices that they get lodged between. Then when the pieces get undone, they can wreak havoc on the unit.
I would stick with a simple drain & fill so this can be avoided.

sha4000

iTrader: (1)

I comfortable with the flush. I wish it was as easy as doing it on my LS. Just drain from the return hose on the bottom of the radiator while adding at the dipstick.

GS350Lexus

iTrader: (5)

You know we have lifetime tranny fluid in the car, per scheduled maintenance it is not required. Also reading on some of the posts there is a lot that needs to be done after tranny replacement to make sure everything is topped of correctly. I would not trust anyone to do it even Lexus as this is not recommended and no one is going in to do it. Expect a handfull of people on the forum. Also we have a sealed transmission.

burny

The fluid's viscosity goes to crap around the 80,000 mile point. I have seen the Blackstone analysis on it. I did mine in the GS350 and it is not that big a deal.

Gotcha350

Exactly...and every dealer I have called or spoken to recommends changing it at 100k if you plan on keeping the car. To me 60k is the safe bet...just like Lexus of Canada recommends.

sha4000

iTrader: (1)

Mines is nearing the 100k mark and that's why I want to get all the old fluid out.

Gotcha350

I've never had a flush done on any vehicle that I've owned. To me dropping the pan, cleaning the pan and changing the filter is the best maintenance you can do.

sha4000

iTrader: (1)

Well I've flushed the fluid on my LS twice now. At 120k and 200k and both times the fluid was dark brown. I should have been doing drains every 30k or so.

burny

what about that 2010?

sha4000

iTrader: (1)

Only had the GS about a month. got it with 97k but the Previous owner did do 2 drain and fills at the dealer. One at about 30 and the second at about 55k.

bklynchris

I'm also interested in finding a reputable shop in the NY area to get a tranny fluid drain and fill.

I have an '09 GS350 AWD. Got the drain/fill service done at 100k and 130k at MotorWorld Lexus in Wilkes Barre, PA. Had the pan dropped and new filter installed at 100k; glad i did, the fluid was the color of asphalt! Very happy with Motor World, much better service than can ever be received in the tri-state area.
The GS is now at 160k, and if I can find a place closer to home, all the better. If anyone can recommend a good independent shop in the NYC/NJ/CT area that can knock this out, I think a lot of people on this board would appreciate it.