Hi scotty from israel
i own a 1.6 2010 toyota corolla 101k miles on it with auto transmission , for two years now .never done a transmission oil change and couple mechanics didn’t recommend me doing it cause i have no history of maintenance.
should i do an oil change or just leave it like this , i really love this car and dont want to ruin the transmission please help me , i would like to hear your advice
You will find details in the FAQ for evaluating the current condition of your transmission fluid and deciding whether to change it or not.
Toyota often recommends doing the change at 90-100k anyway on many makes.
My 2005 Matrix (corolla hatchback) had the 90k recommended transmission service at 112k miles. I did several drain and fills when I bought it at 191k, and just serviced it again at 220k including filter. Transmission shifts great, and I do delivery driving with it, not exactly being gentle on it.
Up to you, but I have done several toyotas over 100k with no issues.
So you think theres more chances that nothing will happen , thanks
You have to make your own decision based on your vehicle. I just looked at a 2005 Pontiac vibe (toyota Corolla Hatchback) with 127k miles on it, shifting great though the fluid was a little dark, as to be expected with the age and mileage. Fluid has likely not been changed, but the fluid was not burnt. If I buy it, I would change the fluid with no hesitation.
I checked the transmission oil on the stick its brown with a little shade of pink , no smell of burnt just oil smell , i will change it and hope for the best
That is what mine is like on my new to me Pontiac Vibe. My matrix was the same way when I changed it at 191k, it had been serviced at 112k though, likely a drain and fill. The vibe has 127k on it, and I hope to do the first drain and fill in the next few days, weather permitting. I will report the results, I expect nothing but good.
I did the first drain and fill today, close to 4 quarts with Valvoline max life ATF. I drove it about 20 miles after, running through the gears every which way. Shifting beautifully so far, no signs of any slipping. Seems to be shifting smoother than before, from my little road test anyway. I have a few other things I want to do first, but I will be dropping the pan and changing the filter next.
Just do "drain & fill" once. This will keep some old fluid in to help prevent slippage. I would also recommend not to throw away old fluid until you know for sure your transmission doesn't slip when shifting. If slippage occurs, put old fluid back in and forget about the transmission fluid changes. On my cars I do first "drain & fill" at 60K and then at each 30K later. Never had a problem..
Once you do the drain and fill, and the new fluid mixes with the old, you can't change your mind and remove the new fluid. If you do a full fluid exchange, you can put the old back in, or at least the majority of it.
I agree, however, what you drain and what's left in the system should be enough to help prevent slippage, if it occurs.