Transmission filter/fluid change

MELABARB

MEMBER
2010 TOYOTA COROLLA
1.8L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
85,000 MILES

According to Toyota, neither the transmission fluid nor the transmission filter needs to be changed for the life of the vehicle. I drained and filled the transmission fluid at 68,000 miles and 75,000 miles. I have not changed the transmission filter. I am unsure of previous service as I purchased the car with 64,000 miles, but I doubt the filter has ever been changed. Some people state a drain and fill (intervals) is enough preventive maintenance as the filter will last the life of the vehicle, while others state to change the filter. No interval is provided. Do you recommend changing the transmission filter (Toyota will not do it)? If so, is there a recommendation of when to do it. How many miles? Is there a recommendation of how many miles drain and fills should be performed (i.E. Every 30 K)? Also, the fluid looks good and the transmission shifts fine. I appreciate your reply.

1 Reply

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
42,895 POSTS

Hello,

Yes, I would change the fluid these transmission need all then help they can get. Here is a guide to help walk you through the steps and spec and instruction in the diagrams below:
As far as a recommendation goes, Toyota says its good for life, but if I was changing the fluid at say 50-60k I would do a filter as well

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-service-an-automatic-transmission

Automatic Transaxle Fluid

Capacity .................... 8.2 qt (7.8L)

Automatic Transaxle Fluid

Type .................... Toyota Genuine ATF WS

Using automatic transmission fluid other than "Toyota Genuine ATF Type WS" may cause deterioration in shift quality, locking up of your transmission accompanied by vibration, and ultimately damage the automatic transmission of your vehicle

Check out the diagrams (below). Please let us know if you need anything else to get the problem fixed.

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