I have a 2003 Toyota Avalon with 48,000 miles. I have been told by the Toyota service techs that it is time for the transmission fluid to be changed. The service center wants $130.00 for this change. A non-Toyota service center will change the fluid for $80.00. I understand there are two ways to change the fluid and one is better than the other. Can someone explain the differences and which is the way to go?
Jim Pettway
One way to change the automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is to hook the car up to a machine and flush the transmission and the other is a simple drain and refill. There are those who say that a flush will get rid of dirty ATF more thoroughly, and as long as the transmission has been serviced in accordance with the manufacturer's service intervals, a flush should not be a problem. The drawbacks to a flush, particularly if the transmission hasn't been serviced in accordance to the manufacturer's schedule, is that it can dislodge debris that can clog internal passages. The manufacturer only specifies a drain and refill, so that should be sufficient. Check the ATF specified on the transmission dipstick - it may by Dexron II or it may be Toyota Type T. If you go to a non-Toyota service center, make sure they have the correct type of ATF on hand.
A simple fluid change is all you need, Not a "Power Flush" - they should call them Wallet Flushes, they don't really accomplish much unless your transmission has been abused, and often they hasten the final demise of the abused transmission.
The transmission holds 5 to 10 quarts of ATF fluid depending on the car model, but most of that is trapped inside the torque converter.
For a fluid change they just drop the transmission pan, drain the 2 or 3 quarts of fluid in the pan, clean the screen or change the filter, check for abnormal wear materials or ?chunks? in the pan, new gasket, seal pan and refill.
You only change 20% to 30% of the total fluid volume that way, but that's more than enough to refresh all the additives and detergents to keep the inside of the transmission sparkly clean.
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Don't Toyota transmissions still have drain plugs, making a fluid change about as easy as changing the engine oil because the pan doesn't have to be removed? My older Toyota's owner's manual doesn't even mention removing the pan or cleaning the filter for the transmission maintenance.
Have you confirmed that "diagnosis" by checking your owner's manual?
Always get a second opinion, and always doubt the guy who makes money off of his recommendation.
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