Transaxle fluid-- Drain-and-fill or flush?

I recently changed the transaxle ATF on my 2004 again, at 150K miles on the odometer. Regarding #1, my suggestion is that when you want to make the car level, put a floor jack on the "tower" located at the center back of the car to raise it up to be level with the front.

Regarding #2, I definitely agree that the fill plug should be removed first as the drained fluid will exit in a more orderly manner and this ensures that the transaxle can actually be filled with fresh fluid. Also, more old fluid will come out if you raise up the rear to be higher than the front, using the floor jack.

Regarding #5, I added 3.8 US quarts and then oil started coming out of the fill hole, with the car level. YMMV.

 

I did this back in February, don't remember specifically which dealer. Sorry. What is "indie prius mechanics?"

 

An Indian (dot, not feather) mechanic who works on Priusesssesss? Am I close?

 

How about independent mechanic, like not a Toyota dealer.

 

How about independent mechanic, like not a Toyota dealer.

THAT^
RIGHT THERE

 

Hey all,

Just want to let you know that I am having my transmission fluid changed at the moment. Initially quoted AUD $400 to "flush", but I told them I don't need a flush, just drain and fill, the price came down to $120, including WS oil.

The trick is to explain to them this car does not have a torque converter and a flush is not needed. The service manager didn't believe me at first, but after a little chat with his mechanic, it was confirmed and hence the huge reduction in price. Australia probably has the most expensive labour rates in the world but this is more than reasonable! US owners should have this done for less than USD $100!

Good luck.


Galaxy Nexus ? 2

 

$32 actually, but I have supply my own funnel and washers
Labor is free.

 

In Northern NJ, last week I paid ~$40 for parts with 15% coupon, took the parts to my local mechanic, showed him the YouTube video on which nut was the drain and fill, done in under 30 minutes. I paid $20 for labor.