Hey guys I have a 2001 RX300 AWD with 125k on it. The vsc and check engine light have been on since the weather has been cold. The lights were on last winter also. I was told it was just a thermostat problem and wasnt to important. When the weather is nice the lights dont go on. I was told by the lexus dealership I needed to do a transmission flush in the near future about a yr ago and forgot about ever doing it. Yesterday the car was running fine, just a little choppy due to the fact Im a little over due on a oil change. Well today when I started it up it was spuddering when I try to accel throughout my day of driving. At higher speeds it felt fine. Just as I stop at a light by my house and turn a corner I notice it wouldnt leave 1st or 2nd gear when it was in drive. It was running at high rpms. Soon as I got home and turned off the car I notice a burning smell. So I let it cool off for a little bit and turned it back on. So the car wont go in reverse and leave 1st gear. Theres no loud noises and the fluid lvl seems fine. Just a dark brown color and a little sludgy. I have heard mix reviews on what to do, Go get a flush, dont get a flush? Drain the fluid and replace with new. My worst fear is im screwed! Can you guys give me some ideas. Hopefully something i may be able to DIY. I will be more then happy to explain more on what happen and what i notice about the car.

 

Welcome to Club Lexus!

DO NOT do a flush. ONLY DRAIN AND FILL. There is a diy on here for that, it's very simple, easier than doing an oil change.

 

Please clarify. I think you mean don't do a "power" flush. It is certainly ok to do a DIY flush by disconnecting the return line from the cooler, right?

 

I am afraid it is too late......

 

Yes, doing a fluid flush is fine by disconnecting the cooler. BUT, using a machine to flush out the fluid, is rather risky, and NOT recommended.

 

I just did a flush at Toyota at 118k and transmission got smoother.