Transmission Issue 2000 Solara V6

[Saranael]

Hey guys,

Im a bit in a bad position right now. I bought a 2000 Solara V6 SLE back in February and everything is fine so far.

I only had to do a tune-up (spark plugs and wires) and change the Firewall A/F-sensor.
Car runs fine otherwise.

Additionally I had several fluid/ filter changes done.

Only thing that is left over now is the transmission fluid which looks like maple syrup instead of nice and red.
So I went to my Mechanic and asked for a drain and fill. I know that flushing might be counterproductive since it can blow out parts. But I read and was told by several mechanics that even a drain and fill can lead to severe problems by loosening particles which will clock the transmission and ruin it.

Its old and needs to be changed but I cant afford a new transmission AND I need my car. What should i do?

Thank you!

[AlmightyCamry777]

The mechanic might be right. I have read old posts here where someone flushed the ATF on their very high mileage car and then the transmission conked out. The theory is that the crud is holding the bands since the lining material is gone, and once they flushed it the transmission didn't work anymore.

Anyway i think there's one of two approaches to take. Either leave well enough alone and DON'T change the fluid (since it still works, after all). Or, maybe just try a drain and refill, which takes 3 quarts, and leaves about half the dirty fluid in place. The benefit of doing this is you'd get enough fluid in there for the additives to help refresh the old fluid, and get some of the dirt out, while possibly not killing the transmission.

Personally, i think i might leave it alone.

[white90dx]

You never mentioned how many miles are on the car...

Maple syrup doesn't sound to bad as an old oil color. I'd do the drain/refill and possibly a trans filter change. Then a drain/refill every 15k miles after that. The V6 trans is fairly bullet proof...

-Charlie

PS. You will probably want to post this on the Gen 1/2 Solara section instead of the Gen 1/2 Camry section.

[270+Camry]

they have non detergent fluid if you are really worried about releasing debris.

[AlmightyCamry777]

Originally Posted by 270+Camry

they have non detergent fluid if you are really worried about releasing debris.

Really, who makes it? I have never seen this on the shelf.

[Saranael]

My Solara has 103k miles on it. Bought it in February with 100k.

Picture of my fluid compared to new fluid:
Hope someone can then tell me how bad it is.

I know it needs to be changed but Im scared of my tranny.

[white90dx]

LOL... that's nothing. Change it and stop worrying.

-Charlie.

[Saranael]

Originally Posted by white90dx

LOL... that's nothing. Change it and stop worrying.

-Charlie.

Thanks. I just dont have experience with it. First car, only 5 months old. I did several DYI successfully and Im learning. Having a lot of fun with it.

Im feeling confident to go change it now.