chinalfr

I need to change the transmission fluid for my 2008 RX400h. Where can I find some info about DIY Transmission fluid change. Thanks.

Nevermind. I found my answer here.

PLamarine

Can you post a direct link to the write up for the rest of us? Thanks.

thomas1

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/hyb...ial-plugs.html

bobgailw

It seems that every time I changed the fluid in the transmission, the transmission failed shortly after. Of course it makes sense to change the fluid due to heat deterioration. I have a feeling its the seals in the transmission that leak after new fluid replaces old fluid.

in the RX400, we all know there is no dipstick to check the level of the transmission fluid. I don't have a clue where to add new fluid if you are a diy. I do know the transmission pan has to come off, filter cleaned, and a new pan gasket is used.

Get an honest mechanic (oxymoron) to do this for you.

ArmyofOne

There are plenty of them in this nation...myself included.

If you experience a trans failure directly after a fluid change, one of 3 possible scenario's could exist. Either:

1. The wrong fluid was used.
2. You arent having the fluid changed often enough.
3. Your transmission was improperly serviced (for example, flushed when it should have been drained and refilled).

Or a combo of any of the 3. I will tell you this, if you have more than 60,000 miles, and you have never changed your trans fluid (or dont know if it has ever been changed), then DO NOT flush your transmission. Either drain/refill yourself (with a filter change) or take it to a shop and tell them: "DO NOT FLUSH MY TRANSMISSION, only drain and refill/replace filters, thanks!"


In my opinion, your transmission fluid should be changed every 20-30,000 miles, depending on your driving (All hwy can go to 30k, but towing/mostly city, stay closer to 20). Also, do not neglect the rest of your powertrain. If you have AWD make sure your differentials/transfer case (if applicable) get their fluids changed at least every 60k.


Remember this: Fluid changes are cheap insurance. When it doubt, change it out!

bobgailw

Hi A of 1,
Thanks for the reply. What is the difference in procedures between flush and just a drain and fill of the transmission?

Tnx,

bob w

thomas1

The flush uses a machine to pump fluid into the transmission, sometimes this disturbs sediment which goes into the valve body (not the 400h tranny) and the debris can cause the pistons or valves in the valve body to freeze up from the debris. As for the 400h there is no filter, and doing a drain and fill is all that is necessary, makesure to use toyota WS fluid only....it takes about 5 qrts. YOu fill until it runs out the filler hole. See posting above for the pictures.... Please note the drain and fill does not remove all fluid. So I just do two changes a few days apart, and the fluid looked great.

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/hyb...ial-plugs.html

rcy

No transmission pan or filter on the 400h.

bobgailw

hi thomas,
I visited a Toyota dealer service center. I asked about the use of flush verses drain and fill. The guy was familiar with them and he recommended a drain and fill. Really, thanks for all the help. I am getting a little old for crawling under cars for a diy. I hope they do it correctly.
bob w

thomas1

Hey it isnt brain surgery, Basically like draining a rear end on a old detroit car...