Auto Transmission Fluid Change 2002

[CitadelBlue]

In 2009 at 95000 miles I paid $154 to the dealership for a Trans Flush for my 2002 4Runner. Dealer used 32 pints of synthetic fluid ($96). There was no part number or other info to ID the fluid on my bill. I'm at 150,000 miles and want to do this again. However the price is up to $260 for the flush. I've read on line that I can drain the fluid via the trans pan drain plug, add 3 quarts of fluid, disconnect the transmission fluid line to the radiator/cooler, start the engine and drain a quart of fluid, add a quart of new and keep doing this with the engine on and off until the fluid comes out clean. I'd like to try this, but I'd like to use the same synthetic fluid as the dealer. However, even after talking with 2 service advisors and 1 parts guy I still can not determine which fluid to purchase. There is a Toyota ATF Type T-IV , a Toyota ATF 00718-ATF00 Dexron III and a Toyota ATF WS (World Standard). Not sure which one is synthetic or which one the dealer used last time.

OR

can anyone provide an option or a recommendation (and source) for something else another synthetic fluid ...... I live in northern VA just outside Washington DC.. Thanks

 

[Kanger328]

I did my own using the method you described with the removal of the transmission line. While you're at it, you might as well add an external trans cooler if you'd like to prevent pink milkshake. I personally used Amsoil ATF. Pricey as heck and hard to find in stores (ordered online), but generally regarded as a superior product from my research.

 

[kball]

In 2009 at 95000 miles I paid $154 to the dealership for a Trans Flush for my 2002 4Runner. Dealer used 32 pints of synthetic fluid ($96). There was no part number or other info to ID the fluid on my bill. I'm at 150,000 miles and want to do this again. However the price is up to $260 for the flush. I've read on line that I can drain the fluid via the trans pan drain plug, add 3 quarts of fluid, disconnect the transmission fluid line to the radiator/cooler, start the engine and drain a quart of fluid, add a quart of new and keep doing this with the engine on and off until the fluid comes out clean. I'd like to try this, but I'd like to use the same synthetic fluid as the dealer. However, even after talking with 2 service advisors and 1 parts guy I still can not determine which fluid to purchase. There is a Toyota ATF Type T-IV , a Toyota ATF 00718-ATF00 Dexron III and a Toyota ATF WS (World Standard). Not sure which one is synthetic or which one the dealer used last time.

OR

can anyone provide an option or a recommendation (and source) for something else another synthetic fluid ...... I live in northern VA just outside Washington DC.. Thanks

Out of the three you mentioned only the Dex III is compatible. And I doubt it's synthetic. You can use Dex VI or Valvoline maxlife dex/merc. Both are synthetic blends. If you want full syn you'll have to get Amsoil or Mobil 1. Not sure if there are any others.

 

[CitadelBlue]

Out of the three you mentioned only the Dex III is compatible. And I doubt it's synthetic. You can use Dex VI or Valvoline maxlife dex/merc. Both are synthetic blends. If you want full syn you'll have to get Amsoil or Mobil 1. Not sure if there are any others.

Seems the specs of the Valvoline MaxLife Dextron/Mercon ATF states that it is synthetic and its available at Advanced Auto Parts ($24.99/gal) ... just around the corner from me......

MaxLife DEX/MERC ATF contains a blend of base oils and a unique additive package to help extend the life of transmissions with over 75,000 miles. It is formulated to maximize transmission performance, reduce transmission wear and improve and maintain smooth shifting longer than conventional fluids. MaxLife DEX/MERC ATF is compatible with new and rebuilt transmissions and will not void new car warranties. Recommended for use where DEXRON, DEXRON II, III and VI, Toyota T-IV and WS, MERCON®, MERCON® SP and LV, Allison TES 295 and 389, Nissan Matic-D, Matic-J and Matic-K, Honda Z-1 (except CVT), Mercedes NAG-1, Mitsubishi Diamond SP-II and SP-III and many others are required.
Base Oil Stock: Synthetic
Color: red
Container Size: 1 gal
Contains Stop Leak: No
OEM Specification Approval(s): Meets DEXRON-VI, MERCON LV, Toyota WS, etc.
Specific Gravity: 0.843

 

[kball]

Okay, I thought I had read before Maxlife was a blend but I guess not. It also used to be at Autozone for $16 a gallon. Seems the price has gone up.

 

[19963.4lsr5]

Pennzoil multi vehicle is a DexIII synthetic fluid also. And mobile 1 also makes a synthetic DexIII.

 

[CitadelBlue]

Okay, I thought I had read before Maxlife was a blend but I guess not. It also used to be at Autozone for $16 a gallon. Seems the price has gone up.

WalMart lists it a $14.99 but its not in stock.