problems!

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05runnerV6

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Okay, I have already smacked myself for doing this, so I just need help...

I changed the oil the other day! Which now I am thinking wasn't the oil. I am thinking it was the transmission fluid that I drained, and then filled the oil. Let me just list what has happened...

Last night...
1. First I drained the oil (or what I thought was the oil)
2. I refilled the oil(6qt), changed filter, etc.
3. I started engine for 2-3 minutes and then checked the level. It was still too high...
4. I tried draining the oil, but nothing came out, or very little.

Today...
1. I checked the oil level, which was still high, and drained some more. Very little came out.
2. I started the car okay, but could not reverse. Or just barely by revving the engine. I pulled back into driveway and turned off car. That is where I stand now!

I am thinking that I filled oil, drain something else... In case your wondering "WTF was he thinking?" This is my first oil change on this car, only had it October. I have never had an issue with changing oil, so I did not think it would be a problem. Laugh all you want, but please help...

I am trying to avoid a huge repair bill, but I know that may not be an option.
 
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The transmissions on these are not user serviceable, there isn't even a place to add fluid.

Since you don't know what you drained, I would stop trying to do anything yourself at this point.

To prevent the possibility of further damage, I would suggest that you have it towed to a reputable service outlet that is familiar with these, perhaps the dealer. Explain what happened, and let them sort out what you actually did do.
 
Not a guru but I agree don't even start it. I think your ok but will have to get a few fluid flushings. Nobody died so don't kick yourself too hard. Keep us posted though.
 
well, from what it looks like now. I drained transmission fluid and added oil. I am having it towed to a AAA car care center. Hopefully all it costs is an oil change and transmission flush... teaches me right, I guess... I will let you know when I hear from them. The tow guy is trying to convince me to tow it to a "AAA approved" shop, but yelp.com says I shouldn't
 
Annoyed said:
I would suggest that you have it towed to a reputable service outlet that is familiar with these, perhaps the dealer. Explain what happened, and let them sort out what you actually did do.
Click to expand...
:iagree:

I wouldn't touch another thing and have someone certified look at it. Wouldn't want to ruin a beautiful thing!

Doug
 
Since you didn't do any driving other than pull into the driveway, I doubt you damaged the tranny. And assuming you overfilled the crankcase (by 6 quarts!), I'm not sure if simply draining and refilling with the proper amount or just draining down to a level midway between low and hi on the dipstick will be all that's required.

Other than a red face and a few bucks to correct, you should be ok. Next time, drain from the OIL pan! :bash: LOL!
 
p nut said:
Post pictures of what you're talking about. That would speedy up the diagnosis.
Click to expand...

Well, the tow guy just took the car, so I can't get a pic. He asked me if the fluid was red that I drained, and it was...

As a description, what I drained was in the middle on the bottom of the car, and I could access it from behind the front tire. The pan is about 6 inches wide, and about 12 inches long, and only looked to be about 2 inches deep. It is not directly under the motor either. And I didn't have to remove the skid plate or any piece to get to it... just crossing my fingers now for no damage... live and learn for me... lol
 
05runnerV6 said:
Well, the tow guy just took the car, so I can't get a pic. He asked me if the fluid was red that I drained, and it was...

As a description, what I drained was in the middle on the bottom of the car, and I could access it from behind the front tire. The pan is about 6 inches wide, and about 12 inches long, and only looked to be about 2 inches deep. It is not directly under the motor either. And I didn't have to remove the skid plate or any piece to get to it... just crossing my fingers now for no damage... live and learn for me... lol
Click to expand...

Yeah, that's a transmission fluid for sure. I'd have them take it to Toyota to get OEM fluids all back in there.

Live and learn.....the hard way sometimes!! :D

To make you feel better, when I was in my teens and didn't know a spark plug from a lug nut, a local (crooked) shop took me for a ride for a simple air filter change. The guy told me it was a special type of filter and charged me $40. PLUS a $20 install fee. :bash: How furious I was later when I learned that the filter was a Fram from Autozone going for $10! And it took less than 30 seconds to install! Yes, we all live and learn...
 
Last edited:
Don't get discouraged about your mishap. Sounds like you will none the worse for wear.

Enjoy all the DIY projects you can. Only through a few mishapswillyou learn what you REALLY need to know.

Relax, we have your back !
 
IMHO I feel Toyota and the Toyota Dealers do a real good job of trying to keep us from doing any of our own service work. I know for a fact mine does.
 
I can see where someone might make the mistake as the transmissions drain plug it's pan is exposed with a drain plug clearly in view, where the oil drain is covered with the metal brush guard and the small plastic panel covering the oil drain plug in the brush guard is tough to see if your not looking for it.
 
just out of curiosity and future reference, could someone be kind enough to post a pic of where the location of oil pan and oil drain is? thanks. :)
 
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