Trans fluid color?

[03SEDavenport]

I've done a lot of searching and have found plenty of info on trans flushing / draining and the what-not but I'm curious about my existing color. I drive an '03 4 Cyl SE with 84,000 miles and the fluid is a dark purple. It doesn't smell burnt but I was wondering if this is something that should be at least drained and refilled ASAP? I don't believe any trans fluid maintenance has ever been performed in the past. Thanks in advance!

[touringcamry]

If it's T-IV fluid, that stuff is RED. It reminds me of the Tylenol liquid you give to little kids - color and consistency or Robotussin cough syrup.

Also looks similar in color to cranberry juice, but thicker.

[TRD VVTi]

A drain and fill would probably be a good idea as long as the fluid isn't burnt like you said.

[the critic]

Toyota states to change the fluid if it discolors, smells burnt, or has sediment.

It sounds like the fluid needs to be changed. Take it to the nearest dealership and have the unit flushed and filled with new T-IV.

[CharmCityES]

id do a drain and fill asap
go to toyota for it tho, and make sure it gets filled with toyota genuine T-IV ATF ONLY.

[TRD VVTi]

It would also probably be a good idea to change the fluid (drain and fill) more frequently than you have been.

[03SEDavenport]

I think I'm gonna go ahead and just do a basic drain and fill. Too many threads I've seen scare me about a flush at this kind of miles. Oh, and as far as changing the fluid more often....."I" will! I just bought the car less than a month ago and the previous woman owner had all of your basic oil changes done on a regular basis but that was about it. Also has anyone else noticed a decent RPM drop between 35-45mph when the car comes out of over drive while slowing down? It drops about 300 more RPM's that what it feels like it should and then bounces right back up to normal. I've driven V8's my whole life so I'm not sure quite used to some of the 4 cylinder characteristics yet. Thanks again guys!

[Mike Murrell]

Originally Posted by 03SEDavenport

I think I'm gonna go ahead and just do a basic drain and fill.

Actually that's not a bad idea, but you'll want to do several drain-n-fills.

Buy a case of the correct fluid for your vehicle. Drive vehicle until fully warmed up. Drain transmission fluid & refill. Drive the car for about 30 or more miles. Drain and refill again. Repeat.

I said to buy a case and I am assuming you might comfortably get 3 drain-n-refills out of the case. If you drain 3 qts. each time, you'll get 4. If that's the case, drain it 4 times.

My guess is the former female owner went to Quik-Lube, got the basic oil change and refused all of their other "menu" services. Good for her and maybe lucky for you that they didn't refill your transmission with Pennzoil "Dexron Replacement" or God knows what.

[TRD VVTi]

Originally Posted by 03SEDavenport

Also has anyone else noticed a decent RPM drop between 35-45mph when the car comes out of over drive while slowing down? It drops about 300 more RPM's that what it feels like it should and then bounces right back up to normal. I've driven V8's my whole life so I'm not sure quite used to some of the 4 cylinder characteristics yet. Thanks again guys!

It's normal.

A flush won't hurt anything at your miles, just don't use any chemicals. Just use transmission fluid.