I have an 03 SC 430 and decided to check the transmission fluid level. Couldn't find any info in the owners manual. Hopefully one of you guys know how to check it. Do you check it hot or cold? Do you run the transmission through the gears before checking? In which position do you place the shift lever when checking? It was difficult replacing the dipstick, is this normal?
Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Ron

 

I can't believe that there is nothing regarding this in the manual, and I'm not going to run down to the garage just to check, but the traditional method for checking the transmission fluid level always used to be with the car on a level grade, the engine warmed up and in park and running.

On the other hand, I've had a Lexus of one kind or another for about 12 years, and have never had to add transmission fluid. I doubt that I have checked it more than 2 or 3 times in that period. Unless you sense some signs of trouble, you should not need to bother with this very much.

Still, there is no charge for checking the fluid level and you can do it all you want without hurting the engine or transmission.