Bought 97 3rd gen; Deciding whether I should change very dark AT fluid

[ki1022]

Hi, first post here. I just bought a 97 4runner limited in great condition with 99k miles on it. This forum seems to be a wealth of information and I think I will be spending a lot of time here. Anyways...

The automatic transmission has close to 100k on it, and the fluid is very dark. Its a reddish brown, although it doesn't really smell burnt. The transmission shifts perfectly through every gear at all speeds and responds exactly as I would expect.

I just bought this vehicle so I am doing a bunch of maintenance for piece-of-mind. But now I am trying to decide, should I service the transmission? Just drain and fill? Flush and filter? I have heard mixed opinions on just leaving the transmission alone in this condition because messing with it will cause premature failure. I am just wondering if anyone here has had a similar experience with this transmission. Thanks!

 

[PitbullRescuer]

Nothing wrong with a drain and fill. Filter doesn't need to be changed, you can clean it. Flushing it with the transmissions own pump is fine, you just don't want to do a high pressure flush.

 

[ki1022]

Thank you fellow Philadelphian, putbill, and 4runner owner, hah.

 

[PitbullRescuer]

You're local? Nice. Let me know if you need a hand with anything.

 

[Hepar]

I agree with Pitt. Can't hurt to give it a change. If anything it will give you a little piece of mind.

 

[ki1022]

ok, I was going to buy Dexron III (recommended in owners manual) unless anyone has a better suggestion.

 

[kball]

Dexron VI or Valvoline Maxlife Dex/Merc. The Valvoline is the best deal at least around here Autozone has it for $16 a gallon.

 

[SantaCruzRunner]

And welcome to the forum!! :frog:

 

[BlueNun]

Thanks for asking, I had the same question.

And thanks for the quick answers.