2004 tranny fluid manual recommendation

[jcohen73]

I have a 2004 automatic Camry and recently looked at the owners manual. It suggested unless severe driving conditions, do not change the transmission fluid. I have always heard to do it 15k-30k miles, never heard of a car never needing it done. Whats up with this recommendation in the owners manual?

[fj40supraman]

Not nearly as important in a manual as in a automatic. I'd still change it anyhow, and when I did I'd put in synthetic (redline, amsoil, etc.). I'd probably change it at 75K or sooner if you beat on it, or don't know it's history (your car is pretty new so you prolly know where it's been).
I know new Lexus LS430 has a sealed system and there is no dipstick or fill hole so fluid is never changed, and theoretically can't get contaminated, however I don't buy it, as there has to be metal wear and the loose pieces are like putting sand in there. On the other side, Toyota engineers are no fools so I'd guess there's not a lot of risk of never changing it.

[jcohen73]

oh it is an automatic transmission.. when i said manual, I referred to the owners manual. sorry if it wasn't clear.