tranny fluid change for gen5

[ToyotaToday]

I searched around and couldn't find good instructions for transmission oil change.

How difficult is it to change your own ATF on a 2002 Camry?
Who has step by step instructions? I want to do it right.

Thanks

[touringcamry]

As in drain and refill? Not much different than an oil change. Just remove the drain plug and then fill the same amount your drained out through the dipstick tube. You'll need a 10mm hex bit that fits on a 3/8" ratchet to open the drain plug.

You can drop the pan and clean the screen if you want, but drain and refill should be ok.

I don't know what the fluid capacity on your transmission is, but on the 2000 Camry 2.2L, drain and refill changed about 1/3 to 2/5 of the fluid. Drain and refill was only about 2.5qts or so. I don't know how much you'll get when you drain your transmission. Check the owners manual.

[ToyotaToday]

Originally Posted by touringcamry

As in drain and refill? Not much different than an oil change. Just remove the drain plug and then fill the same amount your drained out through the dipstick tube. You'll need a 10mm hex bit that fits on a 3/8" ratchet to open the drain plug.

You can drop the pan and clean the screen if you want, but drain and refill should be ok.

I don't know what the fluid capacity on your transmission is, but on the 2000 Camry 2.2L, drain and refill changed about 1/3 to 2/5 of the fluid. Drain and refill was only about 2.5qts or so. I don't know how much you'll get when you drain your transmission. Check the owners manual.

Ok, that makes sense. So after i finished refilling, dont I need to cycle through all the gears and check the level when the engine is hot. Is this correct. Since this is the tranny, I really don't want to screw up.

[touringcamry]

Yes, that sounds correct.

The fluid level is check with the engine at operating temperature and while running.

[greasefingers]

And if you wanted to get even more fluid replaced then drain & refill it a second time on the following weekend. That way more fluid gets exchanged by dilution.

[johnnyzee]

yeah, drain and refill is plenty. no need for flushing.

[ToyotaToday]

after you refilled it, how did you guys check the fluid level. Are you suppose to check it while in PARK and engine running?

[touringcamry]

Yes, in park. I wouldn't feel safe if the transmission was in any other position (other than maybe N) if I had to check something under the hood.

[ToyotaToday]

Originally Posted by touringcamry

Yes, in park. I wouldn't feel safe if the transmission was in any other position (other than maybe N) if I had to check something under the hood.

Thanks Touringcamry. I wanted to 100% sure before I go ahead as this is the tranny.

[hvnbnd]

One last note!
Be SURE you put the right fluid back in, it seems you can check the dipstick to see which fluid it takes.
my 06 takes type T-IV
It HAS to be Toyota fluid as there doesnt seem to be an acceptable aftermarket fluid out there.