Replacing Transmission Fluid

[mike1117]

I just bought a 1999 Corolla with 75K miles on it and am performing general maintenance on it. I already replaced the spark plugs and changed the PCV valve on it. I have a sneaking suspecion that the transmission fluid was never changed on it. From what I've read it's best to have the pan dropped and filter changes AND have a complete fluid change. However, the car need a realignment done badly too. I can only afford two of the three right now. The 3rd would have to wait for a month or two. Any suggestions on what I should do?

[mike1117]

Anyone?

[A-Dad]

I changed mine at 70,000 miles (its a 1998). The oil and filter looked new. There was very little evidence of wear. So, it really didn't need changing. You can get an idea of the condition of the oil by checking the dipstick.
The job is relatively easy to do, but a little messy. Clean the pan cover area on the transmission before you start and keep things very clean as you work. I used a Purolator filter to get a non-cork synthetic pan gasket. Be careful to evenly tighten down the cover bolts, you don't want to bend the pan cover and get a leak. Take your time - there are a lot of bolts and you don't want to squeeze the gasket out. Careful with the silicone gasket sealer too. You don't want globs of that stuff in your transmission. I filled it with Mobil 1 synthetic ATF.
I don't plan to change the oil ever again unless the oil starts looking dark.