Transmission fluid and filter service question

Tundra is a 2016 4x4 with 93k miles on it. Transmission has not had any service work to this point.

Considering a full fluid flush with filter change. With the miles at 93k would this be recommended?

 

99% chance it'll be fine with a flush. If a flush dislodged some gunk and takes out your transmission - it was going to fail anyway.

My preference because I'm cheap' is to do a drain and fill every oil change (10k).

 

Second this advice. Learning transmissions seem to do well with gradual changes via the drain and fill method. I suggest doing it along with your next couple oil changes. It’s easy and works well.

 

Do a drain and fill one time and see how things go. Don't touch the pan filter, it's just a screen that catches large chunks, leave it alone, it'll cause more harm than good.

 

Agreed with drain and fill (IE: no flush). I did mine at about the same mileage at the same time as changing the oil. I’m planning on another drain and fill at the next oil change.

 

I would assume you are just measuring out what came out and just refill with that exact same amount without dropping the pan. for the ones that have done this 3 questions.
1 Did you go back with Toyota OEM transmission fluid?
2 Do you remember about how much came out just by dropping the drain plug?
3. How often should I do this and about how many times do you think it takes to have a good exchange rate from having old fluid to having a mostly clean fluid?

 

There are people who advise not to remove the pan and change the filter. All I have to say is that if you have no indication of rusty and siezed bolts, it's always a good idea to drop and clean the pan, and change the filter and gasket. Also, do this if you have the confidence, experience and equipment necessary.

Yes, only draining and filling the fluid may get you by, but it's still a half assed way to maintain one of the most expensive components of this vehicle.

If you feel like you're not able to do these things, go to a qualified transmission shop that can properly service it for you. They will be on the hook if they damage anything.

You pay to play when it comes to these vehicles. When it comes to maintenance, you also pay to stay.

While this place is fun for us enthusiasts, do what you feel is in the best interest for ypur multi thousand dollar vehicle. Don't just trust a bunch of forum guys who swear that a particular service isn't needed.

 

Yeah measuring and replacing same is smart (checking the level is not difficult either).
1 - OEM or name brand favorite in WS flavor.
2 - About 3.5 liters came out of mine but YMMV - again Measure yours.
3 - I like doing a single D/F every 4th or 5th motor oil change - as you said keeps Fresh along with some of the old to help the wearing clutch packs do their job better. Luck all.

 

The level check method is super easy and eliminates guess work.

 

One More Question. What about using both methods. Start with just a transmission fluid change. Do it over the next 4k,8k,12k, miles
Get the transmission conditioned somewhat with new, old fluid, then do a full drop the pan, change out the filter, replace all fluid with new.

I live in the south so pan bolts should not be an issue.

 

Just completed the third complete replenishing on mine in 225K miles using Amsoil Signature Fuel Efficient fluid. Takes about 3 gallons pumping out the line from the aux XMSN cooler as you fill with fresh, then the final check of the fluid level. Haven't ever dropped the pan or changed filter screen. During normal acceleration, you wouldn't even know the tranny is shifting if not for hearing and observing engine RPMs.

 

It isn’t a rust issue with the bolts - it’s galvanic corrosion that makes them break.

 

Toyota Trucks Sealed Transmission Fluid Replacement WITHOUT a scan tool

Flush everything from your brain except this video. It's dead simple, good luck.

 

This.

do y'all change your motor oil without checking the level? hell no.

then, check the damn level when you do a drain & fill on the trans.




and Merry Christmas!