Lexus Automatic Transmission Fluid
Automatic Transmission Fluid FAQ
Pumped through the transmission and torque converter – responsible for heat dissipation, lubrication and protection
Service Interval: 15k-100k
Manufacturers vary greatly in service recommendations. Some suggest a drain and fill (only replacing 3 or so of the 9-12 quarts in the system), some a drain and fill with filter replacement, and some a full transmission fluid exchange. On vehicles that have a dipstick, the fluid should be relatively bright red in color and not have a burnt smell. If it is very dark or smells burnt, proceed with caution as noted below.
Why do we replace/service:
Like engine oil, transmission fluid breaks down over time, as well as loses its ability to keep the transmission internals clean. It is under extreme heat and pressure.
What happens if we don’t service:
The older the fluid, and the hotter it gets, the less it can do its job of lubricating and cooling your transmission. If your filter is dirty as well, it exponentially increases the problem, by restricting fluid flow, which can overheat your transmission. Essentially, this is just as important of a service as changing the oil and over the life of a car, actually costs less to do than an engine oil change, as the service intervals are much farther between.
General Recommendations:
Keep up with Lexus transmission services. Vehicles that suggest complete fluid changes are more important that this takes place on a regular service interval. If you are not sure when the last time your transmission was serviced, and you have it flushed, you may increase your risk of transmission failure. The main problem behind this is that when a dirty transmission is flushed, the detergents in the new fluid may dislodge contaminants leading to stuck solenoids and even more worn clutches. By doing drain and refills every oil change for 3-5 oil changes, you can turn your fluid back to a healthy cherry red color, and gradually remove the contaminants if the complete fluid replacements have not been done regularly.
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