Vehicle: 2013 Lexus ES350, automatic transmission, 122,000 miles - Prior to this, ATF was never changed. So I recently had a drain and fill done at the Lexus dealership, only 1 1/2 quarts drained out. So I'm planning to do another drain and fill after 2,000 miles. Should I at this time also request to do the pan drop and filter replacement? When should you request a pan drop be done? Thank you-
Should I at this time also request to do the pan drop and filter replacement?
Yes, definitely. Also consider taking it to a good mechanic instead of the 'Stealership'. Have them get whatever AT filter kit you prefer and have him/her do the work.
When should you request a pan drop be done?
Some cars have metal screens that are cleaned, some have replaceable filters. Also have different designs such as standard and CVT transmissions.. Bottom line is your changing your fluid using drain and fill method because it wasn't serviced properly. You're trying to avoid 'doing more harm than good'. You've done one "d&f" and if you can't tell that was done, sure, change the filter too.
Changing/cleaning a transmission filter is best done when one normally services the vehicles transmission.
Is drain and fill a separate service from a pan drop and filter change? In the future, should I always do both whenever I change the transmission fluid? Appreciate your advice.
Is drain and fill a separate service from a pan drop and filter
Yes. It's a better service. A pan drop involves draining by gravity, cleaning/replacing filter, cleaning pan, adding new fluid.
I found this link with a quick search. Pan drop vs Transmission Flush It's a description of what happens with a pan drop service.