2004 4runner V-6 Coolant & Trans?

[mac777daddy]

I am taking a trip in my 2004 V-6 4Runner and just curious if I should change my coolant before hitting the road? I have around 80k on the engine and have not changed the coolant since buying it new. If so what brand and where can you buy it?

Next question is should I change the auto trans filter and fluid? I was going to attempt it myself if its something thats not to hard to do? Dealer wants $190 to do it which sounds high to me? Thanks MAC

 

[riverwolf]

Should is really up to you. At 80K, you're still safe per Toyota's specs.

Assuming the 2004 came with SLLC (the pink stuff), it's rated for 100K, but I personally wouldn't push it that far. I would recommend sticking with Toyota's SLLC as a replacement...the Japanese brands are very picky about their coolant chemistry, although I'm sure some of the "compatible" formulas are just as safe. Refills of SLLC are only approved for 50K service, btw.

Do you have a transmission dipstick aka the non-sealed unit? If so, a simple drain&fill (ignoring the filter) is easier than an oil change. Having dropped the pan on my V-8 last weekend, changing the coolant, including the engine block drains, is also easier than a trans pan drop.

-Brent

 

[echo4tango]

You should be fine until 100k on both. Change the filter and fluid on the transmisson at the 100k point and you will be good for another 100k. If you arent comfortable doing the trans work it is well worth the money for the dealer to do it.

 

[810moto]

You should be fine until 100k on both. Change the filter and fluid on the transmisson at the 100k point and you will be good for another 100k. If you arent comfortable doing the trans work it is well worth the money for the dealer to do it.

actually, i was told my my local dealer about 2 months ago that the trans filter is stainless steel and should ONLY be replaced if your tranny takes a big fat dump on you. just change the fluid and you will be fine.

 

[mac777daddy]

Great info. Looks like the Haynes manual I have is just written for how to's and not specifically for specs on my 4runner. The manual does not have the specs on the fluids in my 4runner so in reading I am being told to change trans fluid and coolant every 30k or so.....Hey thanks for the info. I will check my trans to see if it is sealed or not. I really do not want to drop the trans cover if I can keep from doing it but changing the oil should be manageable. Thanks MAC

 

[Jed]

Since Toyota says the coolant is good for 100K miles, that's good enough for me. Mine won't be changed before that....