Transaxle fluid comparison at 5000 miles (picture)

"Automatic transmission fluid also tends to get darker, and more brown in color as it ages. This is normal and does not indicate a problem. The dye used in the fluid changes over time and color change is to be expected."

 

Maybe. I do know the first change I did, one year mark 15K (kilometers), I felt vindicated: the drain fluid was definitely darker. The second time, at three year mark and maybe 40K, maybe darker? Latest, at 6 years and 65K, looked like new. LIke I've done a protracted flush, and it's pretty much done.

 

Same as Mendel, first at 25k was really dark. At 50k some what lighter and at 100k it looked like new.

So I am not sure that I would agree with bbald123's post.

 

I changed the fluid in my 05 at 70k and it was real dark and when I changed it again at 140k it looked about the same as the OPs with 5k.

 

It is refreshing when a dealer recommends not doing extra service!

 

Transaxle Fluid Drain & Fill (DIY Easy as 1-2-3) | PriusChat

 

The fluid and washers are around $45, and for a mechanic with lift it's a trivial service.