Bossman

I have an 03 4-cyl. Camry with 21,000 miles and the auto trans fluid is beginning to look a little dark. No burning odor yet. The dealer told me it takes Type-IV auto trans fluid and it, of course, costs more than regular fluid. A couple questions please:

1.) Has anyone changed their trans fluid yet on their 03 Camry?

2.) If yes, at what mileage?

3.) At the Toyota dealer or at a shop?

4.) Cost?

When I see darkening trans fluid, paranoia starts to set in fast. FWIW, I called my Toyota dealer and they said it "should be OK" till the 30,000 mile service. I then called a reputable trans shop in my area which I've used before and they said change the fluid every 15,000 miles. Of course, I understand their position. Any info would be appreciated.

Brian R.

Unless you really beat on your transmission by driving hard or towing alot, Toytoa transmissions easily last a long life if you flush them every 30k. IMO, even that is conservative. They hold alot of fluid.

Color is not a good indicator of the condition of the fluid.

You can get the fluid exchanged almost anywhere with the same results.

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