Hello. I recently bought my first Lexus, a 2015 ES 350 with 70,000 miles. I’m planning to have the Toyota dealership replace the fluid. Should I pay extra for the filter or can I wait until next interval 100-110k before doing so? I’m really trying to get 250k out of this vehicle. I know the fluid has been discussed extensively but I haven’t found much info on the filter. Thanks in advance.

 

You should absolutely change the filter.

- The Lexus ES350 has a transmission filter with a paper filter element. It is not a metal screen like some toyota products. This filter must be changed for longevity.

- When you change the filter, they must drop the transmission pan. "Normally" the technician will clean the inside of the pan and the magnets that will be covered with debris.

- When you introduce new fluid into the system, the stronger detergent properties will "clean" additional debris (mostly clutch materials) from interior surfaces. A new filter will easily absorb this, as the old filter has already gone through the break in period "and" all subsequent mileage.

- My ES350 has 86k and I am getting ready to change my filter for the second time. I also own 2 GMC trucks with over 230k on them, still original engine and transmission because I change oil every 5k and trans fluid/filter every 30k.

- others will say "Lexus says it is lifetime fluid". Well Lexus (Toyota) uses the Aisin transmission in these. They do not manufacture the transmission. Aisin does, and recommends regular fluid changes.

 

what is the added cost from Toyota dealer to also change the filter? I am thinking minimum $200 more?