Coming up to the 4 year mark now and my dealer suggested a fluid change for the PSD hybrid transmission. I'm wondering if anyone else has done this. I've heard that Toyota Canada recommends a 72 month or 96000 km interval for the Camry Hybrid and the ES has the same drivetrain.

 

My local Lexus Service manager when asked about transmission fluid changes for my ES300h refused to take my money. He said they can cause more harm than good. I will listen to him because he knows a lot more than anyone on this forum about the maintenance of Lexus's. He went to Detroit where the transmissions are made and ask the question what is the #1 cause for Lexus transmission failures. They told them putting in the wrong fluid and not getting the level exact.

 

What is PSD??

I thought it was CVT hybrid Transmission.

 

Power split device, that's what Toyota calls it. Lexus Hybrid Drive and Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive use the same drivetrain designs, two planetary gearsets linking the engine and two electric motor-generators.

It's not a CVT like the belt and cone designs used on Nissans. Toyota also call their hybrid transmissions eCVTs because they also have variable gear ratios, although the overall designs are completely different.

 

Probably a racket. What's the cost of this?

 

Not much, the equivalent of $50 or so. A brake fluid change on the hybrid costs more.

 

the YouTube Channel: WeberAuto has some really nice videos on how Toyota Hybrid Systems Works You can take a look to learn more. Its a pretty cool and ingenious System.

 

. We own a Prius V but only 5 years old and about 60,000 km on it so far.--I just looked in the manual--only thing I could see in service unique to a hybrid was to change the inverter coolant at 120 months or 160,000 km.

I think that recommendation dealer is giving you was the case years ago (eg 2003 hybrids like Prius or Camry) but not sure it is still the case. I guess if it's only 50 bucks, I would probably do it.

 

I don't own a hybrid, but check your owners manual. If it doesn't specify a fluid change at that interval, I would pass.

4 years for this fluid change sounds like a "wallet flush" to me.

 

I can't speak for the hybrid model but I have done several transmission oil changes on my 2016 ES 350 (I drive professionally and put a lot of miles) and each time I do a change it feels like a world of difference (meaning a lot better with smoother shifts and overall better feeling). It is like night and day. I highly recommend but make sure its a dealer or somebody who knows how to get the proper level.

I changed myself so i also notice (especially the first time) darker colored oil and shiny metal bits in there along with other particles. I would suspect its best to get those things out of there. Also note: I'm just changing what's in the pan which is prob about under 1/3 of the systems oil capacity (but not too far from) for my model. The CVT transmission is completely different so I can't speak for it but I suspect it would be beneficial as long as done correctly. I also highly recommend Amsoil transmission oil. I know they make for CVT transmissions but not sure if spec'ed for your car.

Also will add: I met a top level certified Toyota Tech/Mechanic and he says he changes the Transmission oil in his Highlander every 60k miles.

 

Had a 07 GS450h original tranny fluid at 263k no problems

2013 ES300h at 257 original fluid no problems