How Often Should Lexus Transmission Fluid Be Changed?
2 Answers
The recommended transmission fluid change interval for the Lexus ES is every 2 years or 60,000 kilometers. Failure to change the transmission fluid for an extended period can lead to the following potential issues: 1. Transmission fluid deteriorates and evaporates under prolonged high-speed and high-temperature operation, which accelerates wear on mechanical components and may severely damage internal transmission parts. 2. Prolonged neglect of transmission fluid changes may result in sluggish acceleration when starting the engine cold. 3. The vehicle may experience minor slipping during operation. 4. Over time, unmaintained transmission fluid thickens, potentially obstructing the transmission cooler and causing excessive fluid temperatures that accelerate wear.
After driving for so many years, I believe it's best to refer to the Lexus owner's manual for transmission fluid changes. Requirements vary by model and year, but generally, it's recommended to change every 80,000 to 100,000 kilometers or every 6 years. However, if you frequently encounter traffic jams or accelerate aggressively, wear and tear will be greater, so it's advisable to inspect and replace it earlier, around 60,000 kilometers. Over time, transmission fluid thickens and turns black, losing its lubricating properties, which can cause gears to overheat and even damage the transmission—repairs can be extremely expensive. A friend of mine didn't change the fluid on time and ended up with a ruined transmission, costing tens of thousands to fix. So, during maintenance, ask the technician to check the fluid's color and quality to ensure safe driving. Also, if you notice rough shifting or unusual odors, get it checked immediately—don't delay. Overall, following the manual is the most reliable approach, after all, your car is your treasure.
