2007 LS460 170K
I've been noticing a fluid leak on my transmission exterior and an increasing worse shudder. The shudder is a resonating sound at around 1200 rpms and around 40 mph. initially thought it might be oil leaks but I resolved the majority of my oil engine burning/leakages issues.

I've had 2 drain and fills at the dealer for my transmission at 167.6K and 168.9K. In both cases, The shudder was at a minimum after the service and gets progressively worst over time.

I don't appear to have any leaks at the drain pan, drain plug or the fill hole. Any suggestions on what to do next to diagnose?

There doesn't seem to be a trail on where the dripping is coming from. Has anyone have the drip come directly from the bottom?

 

Transmission and/or motor mounts. A few have had torque converter issues, but only a few. Do you know if trans fluid was ever changed before these two recent changes? If not, maybe torque converter....

 

Uh-oh. That drop of fluid...

 

Nope. According to service history, No transmission service prior to my first drain and fill at 167K

 

clean it and put a masking tape around the circumference. it can probably show where its leaking.

 

Unless the fluid level is low,(even 1/2 qt) which is possible even at a dealer, not much you can do about the leak without spending big money. Look for OBD codes, if none, you'll need to ride it out until it gets really bad.

 

no one told you not touch it if it’s never been touched at such high miles unless it’s a last resort and you willing to put in another one be it used or new ?

 

At first, it was starting to shudder and getting worse, so I had to take action and do something. I may have accelerated the decline by moving the transmission to neutral on traffic lights when I first got the car. I know now not to do that.

I do get your point. Car Care Nut says that if the transmission has never been serviced after 100K, don't even do a drain and fill. I have some misgivings on that advice though.

 

I am at 80k in a 2011 LS460. Should I do drain and refill or do a full 9-11 qt fluid service at the same time? Opinions?

 

That leak is more than likely the pump seal. Just had mine done 3 weeks ago for that very same leak. Had them do the rear seal while they were there as well.

 

What did the pump seal service cost you?

 

He is totally wrong.

 

770 for front and rear but took them almost 3 weeks since they only use OEM and parts had to be shipped. I have an extra vehicle so I didn’t pay for rush shipping.

 

i have the same transmission fluid leak comming out through that hole. Did you get to figure out whats the cause? Thanks

 

Not as of yet. It doesn't seem to be coming from anywhere else other than the bottom. After I wipe the area clean, the droplet starts to form again. As one of the early responders said, it could be a transmission seal.