Transmission fluid helps keep your Toyota Corolla’s transmission running at all times, lubricating the internal components, cooling the parts, and allowing smooth shifting.
The fluid deteriorates over time, becoming unproductive and putting the transmission at increased risk of wear.
By replacing the transmission fluid frequently, you’ll maintain the health of your car and optimize its performance.
We will explain why it is necessary and when to change it and give you a complete tutorial about Toyota corolla transmission fluid change.
Topic Summary
- Why Change Transmission Fluid?
- When Should You Change the Transmission Fluid?
- What Happens If You Don’t Change the Transmission Fluid?
- Step By Step Guide To Toyota Corolla Transmission Fluid Change
- Tools And Materials You’ll Need
- Step 1: Lift the Car Safely
- Step 2: Locate the Transmission Drain Plug
- Step 3: Drain the Old Fluid
- Step 4: Inspect And Clean the Drain Plug
- Step 5: Reinstall the Drain Plug
- Step 6: Locate the Transmission Fill Port
- Step 7: Add New Transmission Fluid
- Step 8: Check For Leaks And Test
- Step 9: Lower the Car And Recheck Fluid Levels
- Additional Tips
- Does Transmission Fluid Last a Lifetime?
- FAQs on Toyota Corolla Transmission Fluid Change
- How Often Should I Change the Transmission Fluid in My Toyota Corolla?
- What Type of Transmission Fluid Should I Use for My Toyota Corolla?
- Can I Change the Transmission Fluid or Go To a Mechanic?
- What Happens If I Don’t Change the Transmission Fluid?
- How Much Transmission Fluid Does a Toyota Corolla Need?
- Conclusion
Why Change Transmission Fluid?
Transmission fluid keeps gears lubricated and keeps the engine from overheating. Debris builds up, it oxidizes and is no longer lubricating. Driving with dirty fluid can result in rough shifting, slippage or transmission wear.
Replace it so the transmission will be kept in tip top condition, and it will also increase the life of the transmission.
When Should You Change the Transmission Fluid?
Toyota suggests consulting your Corolla owner’s manual for the exact interval, but a rough average is every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (repairs can vary from drive conditions).
If you experience rough shifting, slipping, or strange sounds, it is high time to switch it up.
What Happens If You Don’t Change the Transmission Fluid?
You must replace the transmission fluid in your Toyota Corolla. Otherwise, the fluid will deteriorate and cease to lubricate, cool, and clean the transmission effectively.
In disintegration, fluid builds particles, thickens, and deteriorates its anti corrosion properties, producing more friction and heat in the transmission.
This can lead to coarse shifting, deferring or even loosening gears, all of which put undue pressure on transmission components.
If your fluid isn’t replaced regularly, the parts will continue to wear out faster and could eventually cost the transmission even more money.
In more serious circumstances, improper transmission fluid service can cause overheating, transmission malfunction and an entire rebuild or replacement.
Flushing your fluids will keep you on the road and transmission’s life and Materials you’ll love.
Step By Step Guide To Toyota Corolla Transmission Fluid Change
Before you start, gather the following items:
Tools And Materials You’ll Need
- Introducing Toyota compatible transmission fluid.
- Transmission funnel
- Ratchet and socket set.
- Drain pan
- A jack and jack stands (or ramps)
- Clean, lint free cloths
- torque wrench (needed but suggested)
Step 1: Lift the Car Safely
Start by parking your Corolla on a level surface, pressing down on the parking brake, and lifting the front of the car with a jack. Attach it with jack stands or ramps to make sure it is upright.
Step 2: Locate the Transmission Drain Plug
Find the transmission pan under the vehicle. It must have the drain plug on the bottom. Set the drain pan underneath to catch the drained old fluid.
Step 3: Drain the Old Fluid
The drain plug can be loosened and removed using your ratchet. Let the liquid run completely into the pan. It can take a few minutes, so wait to drain all the fluid.
Step 4: Inspect And Clean the Drain Plug
Look for any metal slivers or debris that could signify transmission wear. Rub the plug with a non lint cloth to clear the debris before reconnecting.
Step 5: Reinstall the Drain Plug
After sweeping, insert the drain plug again. Apply the torque with a ratchet or torque wrench to hold it snugly, utilizing the torque ratings in your owner’s manual.
Step 6: Locate the Transmission Fill Port
Find the transmission fill port (usually found under the hood near the motor). Here’s where you add fluid. Pour well and pour with a funnel.
Step 7: Add New Transmission Fluid
With the funnel, ladle the new transmission fluid one at a time and monitor the level frequently with the dipstick (if it is present) to ensure you don’t overfit to make sure. Read your owner’s manual to ensure the proper fluid level.
Step 8: Check For Leaks And Test
Once refilled, start the car and sit idle for a few minutes, shifting gears to disperse the new fluid. Then, look under the car for water dripping around the drain plug and fill port.
Step 9: Lower the Car And Recheck Fluid Levels
Pull the vehicle low and top off the transmission fluid when the engine is warm. Fill up if needed.
Additional Tips
Use the Right Fluid: You MUST use a Toyota approved transmission fluid. If you use the wrong fluid, it can ruin your transmission.
Keep It Clean: You don’t want to release a bit of debris into the fill port while doing so, as that will lead to contamination of the new fluid.
Dispose of Old Fluid Properly: Old transmission fluid is dangerous and should be discarded at a nearby recycling centre or auto shop that accepts hazardous waste.
Does Transmission Fluid Last a Lifetime?
Transmission fluid sold by some manufacturers advertises to be “lifetime”, but it isn’t, especially under the rigours of real world driving. Transmission fluid will deteriorate with heat, friction, and contaminants.
As the fluid gets older, it is ineffective in effectively lubricating, cooling, and shielding transmission components and, therefore, becomes worn and loses performance.
Lifetime fluid warrants are typically inflated for perfect conditions, but constant stop and go driving, towing or extreme climate accelerate wear on fluid.
Most automotive specialists and Toyota advise changing fluids every 30,000 to 60,000 miles for optimal transmission health and life.
Regular oil changes ensure a fluid free shifting and keep the transmission from malfunctioning, preventing you from having to buy repairs.
In the case of Toyota Corollas, make sure to stick to the recommended interval in your manual.
FAQs on Toyota Corolla Transmission Fluid Change
How Often Should I Change the Transmission Fluid in My Toyota Corolla?
Change transmission fluid at 30,000 to 60,000 miles, typically, depending on your model year and driving habits. Refer to your owner’s manual for the specific intervals.
What Type of Transmission Fluid Should I Use for My Toyota Corolla?
Replace the transmission fluid with Toyota compatible fluid, like Toyota ATF WS (World Standard). Ensure you use the right brand. Check your owner’s manual.
Can I Change the Transmission Fluid or Go To a Mechanic?
You can fix it yourself if you’re okay with your repair. But if you don’t have donors, you can leave it to a mechanic to check for problems.
What Happens If I Don’t Change the Transmission Fluid?
Old fluid disintegrates over time, resulting in inadequate lubrication and overheating. This leads to noisy shifting, slipping, and potentially expensive transmission repairs.
How Much Transmission Fluid Does a Toyota Corolla Need?
Most Toyota Corolla models need 3 to 4 quarts of transmission fluid, but always check your owner’s manual to ensure the correct amount for your model and year.
Conclusion
It changes your Toyota Corolla transmission fluid, a cost effective way to optimize performance and prolong the life of your vehicle.
This is how you can keep your transmission healthy and in good shape. These types of preventative care can help save you money on car repairs and increase your Corolla’s road.