dirac1254

Hello there,

I got my ES300 early in the pandemic and was thinking that I should get the transmission fluid changed sometime soon.

I'm just concerned that the previous owner said the original own had it done before but not sure when. (Contacted him recently) I've heard that changing transmission fluid after it's been neglected for a long time could be worse than leaving it alone.

Opinions on if I should get the transmission fluid changed asap or not.

Thank yu

Oro

Leaving dirty and worn out fluid in the transmission is certainly a well-repeated old wives’ tale. But that’s all it is.

Do it when convenient. Use T-IV, 3309, or similar and compatible regular (not “low”) viscosity fluid. it does make a difference over time.

There is a “Black Friday” sale on for Toyota parts right now, 25% off anything you buy. You can get T-IV SHIPPED for $5.40/quart right now ($75 minimum for free shipping). Do the PS system at the same time, it is usually neglected and needs it periodically.

LubeGard red is a fabulous additive, look into that also. Use in both systems.

dirac1254

Thank you for the response. I got a good deal I think (6 quarts for $40 USD) for Toyota 00279-000T4.

Hope that it is acceptable for the transmission. I was going to hold it until my next oil change and wasn't sure if I should change it or now. If this transmission fluid is acceptable I'll like to go ahead with it

Oro

Yes, that appears to be the correct p/n for T-IV. Mobil 3309 is the underlying spec so it is also sometimes called 3309.

You can use cheaper/more readily available DexIII in the PS system when you service that; that’s the specified fluid for it. T-IV will work but it’s a bit of a waste. Also know the fluid level is checked with the car running and after shifting briefly through all gears.

A couple things to know about the transmission and PS systems in these cars if you have not been around them a long time:

- unlike the prior gen with four, the 4th gen has only three lower mounts for the engine/transmission unit. It puts more stress on them. If you get clunky shifting, check the mounts and the upper strut (aka “dogbone mount).
- The PS system can leak, mainly the return hose back to the reservoir because of high heat back there along the firewall. Some ester oil like in the LubeGard or strait lubegard PSF can condition those seals and help avoid an annoying hose replacement job (hard to get at on the pump).

Joe1994ES300

Mine is a 94 model

Oro

It is not as big an issue at all as there is much more air flow and space on all the prior models before 2002.

Some fresh DexIII and an ounce or three of Lubegard in it would be good practice. The ester oil really helps seals and hoses last.

dirac1254

Thank you for all the help Oro