Transmission Fluid Change?

[James Schmidt]

I need some advise from the experts!! My 92 Avalon has 32,000 miles on it and has never been driven in mountains or pulled a trailer. I live in a small town and have spent some normal time driving around town and on the road.

I had occassion to check the fluid in the transmission and found that it was not pink! The color was more the color of motor oil and was clear and did not have a burned odor.

I called the dealership to ask about this and they said that the fluid should be changed every 30,000 to 35,000 miles. In checking the operating maintenace guide, it said that schecule was for severe service only and it gave no recommendations, other than checking it every 35,000 miles.

I have never owned an automobile that required that frequent tranny fluid changes and am concerned that I might have a particular problem that causes the fluid to overheat or something. I might add that I have never had a cooling problem with this car.

Has anyone experienced this and what are your comments?

I did have the transmission serviced, which included a flush and total fluid change. The new fluid is pink.

thanks for your imput.
Jim

[hsakuragi]

the dealership was right, it should be CHANGE every 30k, then flush at every 60k

[toyomoho]

Transmission fluid will become dark over time. Changing the fluid was a good idea and will prevent transmission damage over time. A major cause of transmission problems is not changing the fluid regularly. Continue to check the trans fluid level and condition.

[techgeekwill]

Originally Posted by hsakuragi

the dealership was right, it should be CHANGE every 30k, then flush at every 60k

Generally, It is recommended to stay away from a flush. The additives that they use when they flush will often stay in the transmission and cause further problems. As long as you change the fluid (Drain and refill with a new filter) every 30k or so, you will be fine.

It really isn't too hard to change yourself. First time may take a full afternoon, but all you need is a socket set, a jack/ramps, Fluid and Filter. You will easily save yourself $50 or more.

Flushes are something that a lot of places use to make extra money, they don't really offer a benefit.