Got 130,000 miles on my 2007 Lexus RX 350 now, and noticed the transmission fluid needs to be changed, just checking, is it complicated and hard to do it self? I used to change oil, brake systems myself, and did some transmission fluid change on my dodge caravan years ago. So, just want to get some feedback from others who did this on theirs Lexus, should have this serviced at dealer or shops and can do it myself?

Thanks for any comments!

 

It is very self serviceable. Go over the procedure, then decide for yourself if it’s something you want to tackle. I’ve done a combine seven ATF flushes and two ATF filter changes on 07 ES350, 07 Tacoma, and 15 N200t - all had the WS ATF replaced with Valvoline MaxLife.

I only found one utube video specifically addressing an ATF change on a 07 RX350 but it is lacking in info. Better to follow the link here for the ES350. In your case, I would also replace the ATF filter which can be a more complicated process because you may have to lift the engine to access a bolt, although some have reached it without lifting the engine.

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/es-...with-pics.html

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/es-...placement.html

 

Thanks for the information, will check this out. Happy new year!

 

Is refill capacity 3.2 L or just need to be identical amount compared with what has been drilled out? Also, for the filter set, where is a good source to buy it from, Amazon or need to be at dealer only? Thanks again!

 

The refill capacity can vary, even on the same car, depending on how level the car is, ambient temperature, loss of ATF, etc … measuring what you drain is a better option but you assume the level was correct to begin with. The proper procedure is to set the ATF level during the prescribed temp range - 104-113 F. If the jumper wire method intimidates you, I’m right there with you. I’ve never used that method - I use an IR gun to measure the pan temp. A Camry owner on Toyotanation verified the accuracy with Techstream, and I confirmed the same using the UltraGuage in my Tacoma. The variance was 1-3 degrees. I’ve stuck with Wix ATF filters. But, use the Wix website to get the part #. Amazon listed the wrong filter once fir an I4 Camry. RockAuto’s application guides tend to be more accurate. I have never received the wrong part from them.

 

I am just now noticing that the RX350 refill procedure is different than the link I provided, which is for the ES350. I assumed it would be the same but it appears it is not. From what I’ve read, your transmission takes Dexron VI, which means your transmission may have a dip stick. If you have an owner’s manual it should provide the ATF type and how to read the dip stick. I apologize for misdirecting you!

 

I dug up two manuals for the 07 RX350 on Toyota's TIS website - OM48713U and OM48699U. Can't figure out the difference although the first one has two extra pages. Both state the 07 RX350 takes WS ATF and the refill capacity is 3.7 qts. Rock Auto also shows WS as the ATF as well. I couldn't find anywhere the temp range for checking the ATF level. You either have a dip stick, or you go by the 3.7 qts refill amount listed in the manual.
Here are two threads I found that may help out further.
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...ment-easy.html
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...nge-fluid.html

 

My car still has the transmission level stick (same as the oil stick to check the level), can I simply use that to measure the fluid level (have it run for a few minutes and stayed at flat surface, top it off if level is not enough, etc.)?

 

Your owners manual, strangely, does not show how to read the ATF dip stick. If it’s like most ATF sticks I’ve seen, it will have a cold and hot mark. With car leveled, use the cold mark to check ATF level before starting the car. With car at normal operating temps, use the hot mark. The dip stick may have more info.

 

Thanks a lot for this, really appreciate!