Scotty, I have a 2008 Toyota Matrix 135k miles transmission has never been serviced. Fluid looks very dirty and thin would it be safe to change fluid and filter at this point? It seems like it’s not shifting as it should. Thanks
When you pull the dipstick out, wipe it off on a clean white paper towel and see what it looks like.
That will let you know if it still has some red in it, and how dirty it really is, if you have not already tried it.
How long have you owned it?
Bought it new. The fluid is black no red color at all but does not smell burnt.
Can you explain what the bad shifting is?
It seems to not down shift at times also doesn’t shift into over drive at times. Other times it runs perfect
It seems to not down shift at times also doesn’t shift into over drive at times. Other times it runs perfect
It is up to you to decide, at least the transmission is not slipping or slamming into gear really hard or something.
If you change it, there is always a chance that it could start slipping, but if that happens, the trans was already bad off and on the way out. Toyota transmissions are not as scary about that as domestics.
If it were my car, I would want it to last as long as possible, so I would start with a drain and fill and see how it likes it.
In the end, it is up to you. Please keep us informed on how it goes if you try it.