How to replace auto tranny fluid [Archive] - Toyota Yaris Forums

CTScott

01-20-2012, 08:58 AM

That's impossible.. it will need one eventually

And, the transmission actually knows when it needs to be changed. While I was doing my experimentation with bypassing the 4th gear lockout when cold, I found that when you read the data for the AT from the ECM that there is a parameter for the status of the AT fluid that says if it needs to be changed.

sex

01-20-2012, 11:46 AM

:O Any way for regular users like us to retrieve that parameter? OBD-II (wishful thinking)?

CTScott

01-20-2012, 11:52 AM

:O Any way for regular users like us to retrieve that parameter? OBD-II (wishful thinking)?

It is an enhanced PID, as opposed to standard OBDII PID, but theoretically it could be added as an xgauge to a ScanGauge II. I haven't sniffed the CAN comm to figure out the messaging yet, as I was using my TechStream system when I found it.

Vang

01-20-2012, 07:18 PM

I've always thought that the yaris required no fluid change as it was good for the life of the car. It even says so on the dipstick tube lol. I guess I'll just hold off until I hit 100k.

Hershey

01-21-2012, 12:42 AM

Someone we know had the auto tranny fluid in their '06 Corolla replaced at 100,000 miles . This should apply to the Yaris as well , both use the WS automatic transmission fluid .

birdman

01-22-2012, 07:33 AM

Two Toyota dealerships insisted that the fluid in the Yaris was formulated to not need changing for the life of the car. Other models do need the fluid flushed but not the Yaris. Maybe Toyota wants these transmissions to wear out eventually and this is why they say what they say. I'd like hear a good reason for changing the fluid and at what intervals.

bronsin

01-22-2012, 09:51 AM

My 1979 Chevy Silverado I gave my brother in law has 350,000 miles on the origional fluid.

Three engines though...

Nu18F

01-24-2012, 01:47 PM

The info i found awhile back is on another computer but it goes like this .

For the Toyota U340E autmatic transaxle, the fluid should be changed at 60k miles if vehicle is operated in severe service applications to include repeated short trip driving of less than 5 miles when the ambient temp is at 0 or less . If IRCC, that noted temp is in celcius .

I will find the origin URL and post it when i have time but if needed quicker , just search Toyota U340E autmatic transaxle service and you might have to use Vitz in the search. It was in a parts schematic of the transaxle and an aterisk noted the service schedule.

rossman

01-26-2012, 01:22 AM

I ended up replacing the fluid thanks for the response. I have 190,000 km on it and think it was due. The used ATF was darker then the new stuff but I think I could have let it go longer. Based on Toyota.ca's maintenance menu the ATF replacement is every 96,000 km.

formulation

02-28-2012, 02:21 PM

CTScott

02-28-2012, 03:00 PM

Hello,
I was told that the transmission service is a complicated procedure requiring computer connection/monitoring while refilling with the trans at a certain temp. This was from someone with vested interest in supplying this info (an independent garage specializing in Toyota/Scion/Lexus. Has anyone had any problems after DIY changing the Trans fluid? I have an '08 LB approaching 60K miles and a '10 5dr LB approaching 30K miles.

That is pretty amusing and definitely not correct. Modern automatics should not be pressure flushed, so simple drain and refill is all that is required. A complete draining would actually require removing the transmission and disassembling to purge the valve body and torque converter.

I personally have done a fluid change (twice) on my snow plowing Yaris. The first time I used Dextron IV and I did notice that it didn't shift as smoothly cold, so I drained it again and I used Toyota WS ATF.

LA Yaris

02-28-2012, 05:14 PM

My 09 Yaris Sedan auto tranny has no dipstick. Also says in the book No fluid change as it is good for the life of the car. Even the Dealer says the same.

CTScott

02-28-2012, 05:41 PM

My 09 Yaris Sedan auto tranny has no dipstick. Also says in the book No fluid change as it is good for the life of the car. Even the Dealer says the same.

You might want to take a closer look. The automatic has a dipstick. As for the changing interval - This seems to get discussed at least weekly here.

AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE

Fluid capacity (drain and refill), L (qt.,
Imp. qt.): 2.5 (2.6, 2.2)

Fluid type:
Toyota Genuine ATF Type WS

Change automatic transmission fluid only
as necessary.

Generally, it is necessary to change
automatic transmission fluid only if your
vehicle is driven under one of the Special
Operating Conditions listed in your
“Scheduled Maintenance Guide” or
“Owner’s Manual Supplement”. When
changing the automatic transmission fluid,
use only “Toyota Genuine ATF Type WS”
(ATF JWS3324 or NWS9638) to aid in
assuring maximum transaxle performance.
Notice: 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.
Please contact your Toyota dealer for further
details.

http://www.yarisworld.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=43900&d=1317177152

auxmike

02-28-2012, 07:28 PM

CT, are we to understand that if we want to do this at home we just need buy 3 quarts for a DIY drain and fill?

CTScott

02-28-2012, 09:12 PM

CT, are we to understand that if we want to do this at home we just need buy 3 quarts for a DIY drain and fill?

That's correct - About 3 quarts for just a drain and fill.

2007TRD posted a nice DIY on the Micro Image forum for doing either a drain and fill or a more detailed dropping of the AT pan to inspect the filter and magnets as well.

http://www.microimageonline.com/forums/showthread.php/4833-100K-Automatic-Transmission-service-inspection

tyrone_yaris

02-29-2012, 12:31 AM

You might want to take a closer look. The automatic has a dipstick. As for the changing interval - This seems to get discussed at least weekly here.

http://www.yarisworld.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=43900&d=1317177152

The Japanese version that I have does not have a dip stick so there is no way of really checking the ATF fluid condition for me :iono:

Does anyone have any idea why the Japs would put a dip stick on one model of a particular locatoin and not the other????

CTScott

02-29-2012, 12:44 AM

The Japanese version that I have does not have a dip stick so there is no way of really checking the ATF fluid condition for me :iono:

Does anyone have any idea why the Japs would put a dip stick on one model of a particular locatoin and not the other????

That's because you have the K41 CVT, which is completely different than the U340 automatic.

tyrone_yaris

02-29-2012, 12:53 AM

yaris4062007

02-29-2012, 12:57 AM

I changed mine at 81k miles , it was pretty dark compared to new fluid. Very simple, easier then oil change.
$8.99 qt from dealer and $3 for new gasket

CTScott

02-29-2012, 07:54 AM

Oh i see. Do you know where I can get some info on drain / refill intervals for this transmission as the manual I have is in Japanese :confused:

Also if a DIY guide to do it is available on the net. Tried google but so far nothing.

Here is a DIY for your CVT:

http://www.microimageonline.com/forums/content.php/161-Yaris-Vitz-IQ-CVT-Fluid-Change

tyrone_yaris

02-29-2012, 08:01 AM

Thanks CT Scott.

In the 4th point - I cant actually make out the location of the CVT refill hole.

In the 5th point - why do you have to let the oil drain till it slows to a slow drip?

Thanks

CTScott

02-29-2012, 10:24 AM

Thanks CT Scott.

In the 4th point - I cant actually make out the location of the CVT refill hole.

In the 5th point - why do you have to let the oil drain till it slows to a slow drip?

Thanks

I don't have photo of the location of the filler hole, but from this larger diagram you can see two round areas on the end opposite where the transmission meets the engine. The plug is located on the right side of the lower round area. It is a larger head bolt then the others around it and is has a thin gasket visible around its edges.

45682

caineroad

03-07-2012, 02:27 AM

can anyone take pic of the drain plug? i can't find it under the car...

CTScott

03-07-2012, 11:12 AM

45769

pennyracer

03-07-2012, 11:19 AM

bolt size is 10mm allen wrench or 10mm allen socket drain and fill 3 quarts is what i used but i dont think i used the full third quart check after 2 1/2 quarts and so on its a easy job

caineroad

03-08-2012, 03:41 PM

Thank you very much indeed! time to do my fluid change!!

AallTechTrans

04-03-2012, 06:03 AM

According to me you can get help at Alta tech. They offer best auto fluid replacement services (http://www.aalltech.com/), complete repair at low cost.

DARKSCOPE001

04-03-2012, 08:19 AM

I have one of these http://www.griotsgarage.com/product/multi+fluid+extractor.do?from=Search

I have used it on other cars. But on my quick mechanical analysis of the yaris. This car is almost made to be worked on! I mean im almost drooling to do an oil change on this thing and I havent even had it for 1000 miles yet.

I also took a look at the drain for the tranny. Piece of cake! invest in a alen socket for a 3/8 ratchet and do the thing yourself. And do it right. Replace the gasket and use toyota ATF I cheeped out and used universal atf in my old hyundai but it was a beater I didnt care.

Your already saving tons of money and doing it the right way (not the jiffy-idiot way)

But going back to the fluid extracor. It never hurts to change the fluid. So I might use it for intermediate changes between actual changes. Keep those transmissions clean boys! and they will last you many years of good hard service. Ive seen auto boxes go 300,000+ miles and ive seen them fail as early as 100,000 its all about the care, dont abuse them and change fluid and filter regularly.

Thanks
Sean Scott

AallTechTrans

04-10-2012, 05:02 AM

According to me you can get help at Aalltech. They offer best auto fluid replacement services (http://www.aalltech.com/), complete repair at low cost.

oliveskate

04-24-2012, 12:28 PM

Also just wanted to include, that I would only use Toyota recommended fluid. I've seen plenty of time's when people use other transmission fluid, and it "burns" up right away, and the transmission doesn't shift as well. Spend the little more money and do it right. Don't forget to get a new gasket for the transmission plug. (Won' hurt to change it, every transmission service)

firemachine69

04-24-2012, 06:27 PM

That is pretty amusing and definitely not correct. Modern automatics should not be pressure flushed, so simple drain and refill is all that is required. A complete draining would actually require removing the transmission and disassembling to purge the valve body and torque converter.

I personally have done a fluid change (twice) on my snow plowing Yaris. The first time I used Dextron IV and I did notice that it didn't shift as smoothly cold, so I drained it again and I used Toyota WS ATF.

IIRC, doesn't the manual state the tranny pump needs to be wired up to flush out the AT fluid?

Tranny fluid change is part of scheduled maintenance in Canada, IIRC.

07typeS

06-10-2012, 03:24 PM

What is the gasket replacement you guys are talking about? Is there a gasket on the allen bolt you remove to drain? If anyone has a part number for it id appreciate it..

bad

07-12-2014, 09:08 PM

That's correct - About 3 quarts for just a drain and fill.

2007TRD posted a nice DIY on the Micro Image forum for doing either a drain and fill or a more detailed dropping of the AT pan to inspect the filter and magnets as well.

http://www.microimageonline.com/forums/showthread.php/4833-100K-Automatic-Transmission-service-inspection

What is the gasket replacement you guys are talking about? Is there a gasket on the allen bolt you remove to drain? If anyone has a part number for it id appreciate it..

35168C in CTScott's diagram above.

bad

07-12-2014, 09:40 PM

That's correct - About 3 quarts for just a drain and fill.

2007TRD posted a nice DIY on the Micro Image forum for doing either a drain and fill or a more detailed dropping of the AT pan to inspect the filter and magnets as well.

http://www.microimageonline.com/forums/showthread.php/4833-100K-Automatic-Transmission-service-inspection

I see him talking about a Drain Plug Washer... have you seen this for sale online/ is it possible that my original one is fine and doesn't need replaced?

Thanks.

bad

07-13-2014, 10:56 PM

You might want to take a closer look. The automatic has a dipstick. As for the changing interval - This seems to get discussed at least weekly here.

AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE

Fluid capacity (drain and refill), L (qt.,
Imp. qt.): 2.5 (2.6, 2.2)

Fluid type:
Toyota Genuine ATF Type WS

Change automatic transmission fluid only
as necessary.

Generally, it is necessary to change
automatic transmission fluid only if your
vehicle is driven under one of the Special
Operating Conditions listed in your
“Scheduled Maintenance Guide” or
“Owner’s Manual Supplement”. When
changing the automatic transmission fluid,
use only “Toyota Genuine ATF Type WS”
(ATF JWS3324 or NWS9638) to aid in
assuring maximum transaxle performance.
Notice: 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.
Please contact your Toyota dealer for further
details.

I looked at the “Scheduled Maintenance Guide.” It never says when to change but it says when to check it. It says to check it pretty often.

I have 100K miles on my Yaris now. I bought it with 50K and don't know if the fluid was ever changed. I used the dipstick and saw the level was good. The color was purple, but a little dark. No metallic flakes or anything. I have no problems shifting (automatic).

Is it bad for the fluid to be a little dark?
Is there a good reason for me to change the fluid or even clean the filter and change the gasket as this website below instructs? (I know how much to use and to only use Toyota fluid.)

http://microimageonline.com/forums/s...ice-inspection

bad

07-14-2014, 10:32 PM

When checking transmission fluid level, should car be in park or neutral while running?

nikonNUT

07-20-2014, 03:35 AM

When checking transmission fluid level, should car be in park or neutral while running?

Shouldn't that be listed on the transmission dipstick?

bronsin

07-20-2014, 08:48 AM

Is there a good reason for me to change the fluid or even clean the filter and change the gasket as this website below instructs? (I know how much to use and to only use Toyota fluid.)

http://microimageonline.com/forums/s...ice-inspection

IMO...no....unless the vehicle has been in a flood or subjected to unusually harsh operating conditions like trailer towing, subzero operation, or very hot climate.

I check my level once a year and inspect the transmission for leaks while up on ramps for oil changes.

nikonNUT

07-21-2014, 01:08 AM

And of course my question is... Flush the filter with brake cleaner? Do the Toyota filters no run a paper element? I saw the foam in the pic but is that all that is in there? Just wondering out loud.

Pern

02-12-2016, 10:36 PM

Go purchase Toyota WS fluid plus one more court than your car will hold.
1. Drain the pan.
2. Refill the pan with exactly the same amount you drained.
3. Locate and remove the fluid return line from cooler to transmission.
3. Remove it and drain into graduated container.
4. Start the car, drain out the balance of the fluid as you add the new fluid.
5. Reconnect the return line, top off the fluid to proper level.
(As an added benifit you can also change the filter if the fluid is really dirty and burnt).
This will get most of the fluid out of the car cost effectively.

Adrien

10-05-2019, 11:06 PM

Here's my 2 cents:

After filling up the transmission fluid, I went to measure if I had put enough. The mechanic's manual tells us to measure the fluid level while the engine is running at a normal operating temperature (see image below), set on Park, and while the car is level. The latter is very important and will have a significant effect on your fluid level readings. Here's the experiment I did:

Parked on the left side of the street, the car was rolling a few degrees left. The ATF level would read below the normal quantity.

Parked on the right side of the street, the car was rolling a few degrees right. The ATF level would read above the normal quantity.

I wouldn't believe such a small inclination change would have that much of an effect on the ATF level, so I repeated my experiment to convince myself it was real. The neighbors must have tought I was crazy... :wink:

Here's the official instructions for fluid level check on a 2007 yaris:

https://i.imgur.com/7oaNyFK_d.jpg?maxwidth=640&shape=thumbC_M