LX470 transmission blown. Could engine braking cause this?

It might have contributed. But 125K miles is high enough that transmission failures are not uncommon so it might have nothing to do with it.

- Mark

Out of curiosity, did you replace the transmission/differential fluids at regular intervals???

-- Curtis Newton snipped-for-privacy@remove-me.akaMail.com

ICQ: 4899169

Can you elaborate on your rotors being "redone" four times?

Lexus does not sanction resurfacing of rotors- have you actually been through FOUR sets of rotors in 125k??

Thanks, rt

Also, driving habits affect longevity of the tranny (and lots of other systems too). The auto trans will definitely last longer if the vehicle is driven gently overall.

Most people drive their vehicles relatively hard, in my experience.

Watch the Rat Race - hard accelerations despite looming red lights etc., followed by hard braking. Over and over... (It's like most people have a learning disability regarding traffic systems & patterns as affecting their own vehicle motion. Or maybe many people live fantasies about being the next star auto racing champion?)

And you'll buy another Lexus?

Yes, four sets of brakes. The rotors have been warped. I think the dealer calls it "resurfacing" and "machining" the rotors. I live on a

My 2 cents....I have found that in general the Toyota (Lexus) transmission holds up very well using "excessive" engine braking (long hills or trailers) however the tranny cooling system is not good enough. "Burned" transmission fluid will allow wear in the little "valves" inside the tranny giving low overall pressure.

At first I changed the fluid very often (you can smell the burned fluid on the dip stick and you do not have to be an expert -- it is a very different smell from a fresh quart). That got old....so I put in a larger aftermarket transmission cooler (its up by the radiator and costs

Good response, and a very good idea.......

transmission

aftermarket

to

Like I mentioned, resurfacing/machining of rotors is NOT something Lexus sanctions. And, doing this to your rotors definitely isn't the same as replacing them, in terms of cost or longevity.

Ask any mid to heavy SUV owner with over 80,000 miles- likely he/she has had to replace rotors as well. I think you are wise to employ engine braking, if not for anything more than the enhanced safety. One tranny every 125K is acceptable, but probably a bit shorter than if you lived in Kansas.

Best, rt

Thank you, I really appreciate your opinions. Interestingly enough the resurfacing/machining was recommended and done by the local Lexus dealer.... So I'll keep on engine braking and hoping for the best ... Pelle

Yeah, service shops DO have to make their money.

I'd recommend remembering your experience with this dealer in your future service needs.

rt

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