Originally Posted by WaveRunner

I hear so many different things about servicing the transmission. Some say don't flush. Others say just swap the fluid. Others say don't touch it period. I do notice mine occasionally has a less than smooth downshift when decelerating. It is weird cause I also have a Saab which has a Japanese-built 5-speed AISIN auto transmission (The LS has an AISIN transmission as well, the company is partly owned by Toyota) and it does the same thing every now and then. Saab service recommends you drain and refill (not flush) the fluid every 60k miles. On my LS, I'm just jumping the gun assuming the slight rough downshift means it needs new fluid or god forbid it is in early stages of slipping but I think that's just the way they are designed especially when you cruise then hit a patch of traffic or stop sign/light.

Originally Posted by RA40

The Master Tech that worked on one of my other Toyota's relayed that with no fluid changes, the tranny's go south about 150K-180K on average. Bright red fluid is the goal though burgundy is ok. The 2-2.2 quarts drain is a gentle process that gradually removes the contaminted-burned fluid. $16 for 2 quarts is any easy start. Even the WS fluid trannies require maintenance. Flushing with burned fluid is bad. People that say don't touch are not good sources to rely on. I would suggest the 2.2 drain and see how it responds.

Originally Posted by WaveRunner

What do you think of simply doing a complete drain and refill? The previous owner did a flush at a Lexus dealer at 96k miles, the car has 143k miles now. Do you know the capacity by any chance?

Originally Posted by Sin1UZFE

My local shop does a fluid exchange, is that the same?

Originally Posted by WaveRunner

I found a document from the Lexus dealer for the 120,000 mile service which includes automatic transmission fluid replacement. This is in line with what Saab recommends for their AISIN automatic transmission as well. I think every 60k miles is what the transmission manufacturer recommends. Remember, replace not flush is what is clearly stated.

Originally Posted by Sin1UZFE

Is this "fluid exchange" the same thing?

Originally Posted by WaveRunner

I imagine it is. The dealer transmission service consists of 2 quarts of transmission fluid being replaced. Use Toyota or Mobil equivalent for best results.