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'04 LS430 Transmission Fluid Drain/Fill Question?

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Old May 14, 2019 | 11:31 AM
  #16  
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My local Independent Lexus and Toyota mechanic (who hasn't steered me wrong yet) says that he only does a flush with a machine for the system at about $240. I assume that is not something you guys would recommend?

I have techstream I got off eBay a while ago since we have a few lexus/toyota vehicles. If I was to do it myself, I'd do the level drain and fills using techstream and overflow at 115F etc.

Thanks!
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Old May 14, 2019 | 11:45 AM
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Yes, the Lexus dealer used Valvoline Maxlife atf. When I saw it listed on my receipt when I picked up the car I almost panicked. When I questioned them about it, he showed me where it met Toyota's WS qualification. And since heat is the major issue in killing transmission fluid I agreed that having a full synthetic atf might be helpful since I live in Arizona. Toyota's WS is not a full synthetic.
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Old May 14, 2019 | 01:54 PM
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Originally Posted by smokey6010
Yes, the Lexus dealer used Valvoline Maxlife atf. When I saw it listed on my receipt when I picked up the car I almost panicked. When I questioned them about it, he showed me where it met Toyota's WS qualification. And since heat is the major issue in killing transmission fluid I agreed that having a full synthetic atf might be helpful since I live in Arizona. Toyota's WS is not a full synthetic.
More recommended viewing...
I've posted this video a couple times in the past. Pay close attention to the last 6 or 7 minutes and especially at 39:15
Which Lexus dealer was this, as you are in Arizona, so I will know to steer clear of them?
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Old May 14, 2019 | 02:18 PM
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Originally Posted by smokey6010
Yes, the Lexus dealer used Valvoline Maxlife atf. When I saw it listed on my receipt when I picked up the car I almost panicked. When I questioned them about it, he showed me where it met Toyota's WS qualification. And since heat is the major issue in killing transmission fluid I agreed that having a full synthetic atf might be helpful since I live in Arizona. Toyota's WS is not a full synthetic.
Wow.... I am not trying to start a debate of what atf to use, or what is within the spec or not, but to hear that a Lexus dealer installing non Toyota atf is very surprising. I am under the impression that Toyota WS is the only atf that is supposed to be used with this transmission (and other model of transmission in various Toyota vehicles).
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Old Oct 2, 2021 | 08:03 AM
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Default P2757 TCC Solenoid

Hello,
My car is 2004 Lexus LS 430 with 258,208 miles. Code P2757 checked advised to do a transmission flush. Does this code means my transmission is faulty? Do I need to plan for another car? Advised the flush may preserve the transmission a little longer, but keeping in mind no one really know when the transmission may go out. The car still drive smoothly for now. No known symptoms experienced, yet.. What is your recommendation?
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Old Oct 2, 2021 | 09:34 AM
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Originally Posted by Fabbysgud
What is your recommendation?
Change the fluid and filter, it is possible it will fix your problem. Worst case the torque converter is shot best case the filter is sludged up and the fluid is in poor condition.
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Old Oct 2, 2021 | 09:44 AM
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Based on your response, all may not be lost? How do I find out the type of transmission I have? Meaning, dip stick (none in my car besides oil dip stick), pan gasket, or drain and fill?
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Old Oct 2, 2021 | 09:51 AM
  #23  
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Look at the door sticker you either have the A650E or A761E transmission. Never worked in an LS430 so not familiar with the drain/fill procedure if there is no transmission dipstick that means the job requires special tools. Correct, all may not be lost. Think of it this way, do you want to spend money on a transmission service to find out, or simply get rid of the car? Those are your choices.

To be clear the problem could be bad fluid/bad fluid level. Bad torque converter, bad solenoid(s) or some other electrical problem.
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Old Oct 2, 2021 | 10:11 AM
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Thank you for your reply. The transmission type is not found on my door stickers. There, is just tire info. I'd love to get a new car, but my bank account says just fix what can be fixed. 😁 Your reply is appreciated.
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Old Oct 2, 2021 | 10:31 AM
  #25  
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Originally Posted by Fabbysgud
Hello,
My car is 2004 Lexus LS 430 with 258,208 miles. Code P2757 checked advised to do a transmission flush. Does this code means my transmission is faulty? Do I need to plan for another car? Advised the flush may preserve the transmission a little longer, but keeping in mind no one really know when the transmission may go out. The car still drive smoothly for now. No known symptoms experienced, yet.. What is your recommendation?
You have an A761E transmission which has no dipstick. A drain and fill is fairly involved BUT doesn’t require any special tools. Basic hand tools, a ratchet set, will do the job. It is however critical you get the fluid level just right there is little room for error with the A761E. If you’d like to tackle it yourself a paper clip (aka jumper wire) is the only Special tool you’ll need. Check out post #11 of this thread- https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls-...thread-15.html

If you don’t choose to try this yourself any Toyota dealer should have the equipment do do the job much quicker than the average Joe…
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Old Oct 2, 2021 | 10:59 AM
  #26  
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The information is indeed appreciated. I'm a girl. I'm not attempting this job. 😁 I will make a decision, soon. I have an appointment next week with another shop to look into my issue. I'll decide soon. Right now, it's drivable, but those lights are so annoying to see. I will hold on to this thread as a reference. I want to fix it before any symptoms are felt.
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Old Oct 4, 2021 | 03:35 PM
  #27  
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Does draining and then replacing with the same amount you drained work? I don't have access to a scan tool to measure the temperature of the fluid lol
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Old Oct 4, 2021 | 03:54 PM
  #28  
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Originally Posted by MT919
Does draining and then replacing with the same amount you drained work? I don't have access to a scan tool to measure the temperature of the fluid lol
You would have to work under the assumption the level is correct before you start.......and not mess up.
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Old Oct 4, 2021 | 04:35 PM
  #29  
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^ I did that, measuring precisely. In my case, the fluid had never been touched since new and there were no leaks, so I just replaced exactly what I removed, repeated 3X, drive 5-10 miles between each drain/fill. No issues at all since then. Did that at around 120,000 miles, will do some more later on.
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Old Oct 4, 2021 | 05:00 PM
  #30  
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Originally Posted by MT919
Does draining and then replacing with the same amount you drained work? I don't have access to a scan tool to measure the temperature of the fluid lol
See post #25 above which will direct you to the Sealed Transmission MOTHER THREAD and how to do the job without special tools or equipment. The 430 has a diagnostic mode that’s accessed from inside the car which tells you when the temp is within range.
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