Replaced the CVT and Rear Differential fluids today, and was very pleased to note that the drained fluids from both were not too dark or gunky. Also, no metal bits in either. Last change was at the Lexus dealership, in 2015 at 130k km, so, the fluids have held up well in the interim. One question though: The front CVT only took just under 4.0 litres of WS fluid, which makes it about 4.2 US Qts, before it overflowed quite steadily. Could I have underfilled it? The car was on jacks and level. Have not heard any noises while driving after the change, but then again, I am slightly hard of hearing. 🙂 Any advice will be appreciated. Thank you. 🙏

 

It's my understanding that since this unit uses splash lubrication, the level difference you are referring to is not critical. I'd be interested to hear any other opinions...

 

I am back, I started this thread years ago, I just changed the fluid at 261 K miles. Fluid was slightly brown, as for fill, fill till it flows out hole, other thing I like to do before putting it completely together is start engine and shift thru gears, than go back below and remove fill plug and check level again. I dont know about splash lube as the CVT is not just a differential. I have changed my fluid once a year or every 15k miles and achieved this mileage. Good luck everyone.
Someone asked about the plugs, I found one with a magnetic tip, I use that on the bottom drain plug. These are available at Toyota as well as Lexus.

 

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Thank you for checking in! I am just about to reach 200k. 15k seems quite agressive. Especially with the price of WS. I aim for 60k to 70k miles. I will report next change.