2008-2009 4runner transmission maintenance
- Thread starter Vanuatoo
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CJ3Flyr
Super Moderator
30k is a bit early. Here's a couple of threads that discuss 'how-to' and some suggestions on 'when-to'.
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/53168-ws-transmission-fluid-stands.html
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/maint...ission-fluid-servicing-sealed-non-sealed.html
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/53168-ws-transmission-fluid-stands.html
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/maint...ission-fluid-servicing-sealed-non-sealed.html
Toyojay
New member
Toyota says it is a sealed system requiring no maintenance, personally I do a drain/fill every 20-30k. No real reason for that other than its what I've always done with "regular" transmissions in past vehicles. Maybe it makes me feel better, but its cheaper to buy 5QT's of WS for $50 every year - year and a half than potentially a $3k transmission down the road.
EDIT: I remembered wrong. I checked the maintenance schedule, and it's 60k miles when towing.
As I remember, the severe duty maintenance schedule says 100k for trans fluid.
I tow heavy, this is the reason I bought a V8 4Runner. Mine was a garage queen with 98xxx when I bought it. I exchanged the tranny fluid at 100k by disconnecting the tranny cooler....one quart at a time until it ran nice and pink. I used WS fluid. I plan on doing it again at 150k.
As I remember, the severe duty maintenance schedule says 100k for trans fluid.
I tow heavy, this is the reason I bought a V8 4Runner. Mine was a garage queen with 98xxx when I bought it. I exchanged the tranny fluid at 100k by disconnecting the tranny cooler....one quart at a time until it ran nice and pink. I used WS fluid. I plan on doing it again at 150k.
Last edited:
Bluesky 07
Senior Member
Could be a huge gamble. There’s been exhaustive discussion here around how Toyota’s definition of “lifetime” differs greatly from an owner’s. (Well, any manufacturer, not just Toyota.) Scotty Kilmer says so too.
It also strikes me as unlikely that any fluid, especially transmission fluid, can fulfill its purpose indefinitely.
And finally, some say manufacturers call fluids “lifetime” to avoid a per-vehicle fluid disposal fee that would otherwise be imposed on imported vehicles like the 4th Gen 4Runner.
Your truck, your call but something to think about.
RunnerFanTenn
New member
Flushing and replacing tranny fluid in 2008 and 2009 runners
Just for those who are curious about doing a full flush and replacing transmission fluid on 2008 and 2009 4runners. I paid $200 each ($400 total) to have both flushed and refilled with synthetic (valvoline maxlife synthetic) couple months ago. Both had over 200,000 miles. Had previously done the same at 100,000 miles. Both are daily drivers and neither have done much towing in their lives. Have had zero issues with either after both flush and replacement of tranny fluid. Do realize that many warn against doing this due to fears of dislodging old sludge, or metal fragments into gears. Do understand the concern but just wanted to let other know my experience. Also had differential fluid changed on same schedule. I'm still thinking these trucks were made by an advanced alien civilization.
Just for those who are curious about doing a full flush and replacing transmission fluid on 2008 and 2009 4runners. I paid $200 each ($400 total) to have both flushed and refilled with synthetic (valvoline maxlife synthetic) couple months ago. Both had over 200,000 miles. Had previously done the same at 100,000 miles. Both are daily drivers and neither have done much towing in their lives. Have had zero issues with either after both flush and replacement of tranny fluid. Do realize that many warn against doing this due to fears of dislodging old sludge, or metal fragments into gears. Do understand the concern but just wanted to let other know my experience. Also had differential fluid changed on same schedule. I'm still thinking these trucks were made by an advanced alien civilization.
