How often should the Camry's transmission fluid be changed?
3 Answers
Toyota recommends changing the transmission fluid every 60,000 kilometers, with a replacement capacity of 2L. Below are the methods for changing the transmission fluid in a Toyota Camry: 1. Gravity Drain. Loosen the nut at the bottom of the transmission oil pan and allow the old transmission fluid to drain out naturally by gravity. This method is the simplest, but it cannot completely drain the transmission fluid, leaving residual dirty old fluid in mechanical crevices and dead spots. 2. Machine Flush. First, add new transmission fluid to the flushing machine, then connect the transmission to the machine via hoses. The new fluid is pumped in under pressure, pushing out the old fluid. This method cleans the fluid passages more thoroughly. 3. Oil Pan Removal. This method cleans from the source, providing a more thorough cleaning, and also allows for the cleaning of the transmission fluid filter.
I'm quite experienced with changing the transmission fluid for my Camry. Generally, the manual recommends replacing it every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every 5 to 6 years, depending on your car's model year. Take my 2018 model for example—the dealership suggests changing it every 75,000 miles, but I've found that actual driving habits make a big difference. For instance, frequent driving in congested city traffic leads to higher fluid temperatures and faster degradation, so it's better to change it as early as 50,000 miles. If you skip the fluid change, the oil will turn black and become viscous, causing rough gear shifts and potentially leading to total transmission failure, which could cost thousands to repair. That's why I check the fluid level every two years and replace it immediately if the color turns dark brown. Overall, spending this small amount of money can extend the car's lifespan by a decade and save you the headache of major repairs.
I've changed the transmission fluid myself a few times, and it's quite simple. The Camry's transmission fluid interval is usually listed in the manual as every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, but I prefer to do it every 60,000. Buying genuine fluid online is cheap, costing just a few tens of dollars. First, make sure the fluid level is normal and the color is clear. If it turns dark or has metal particles, it's time for a change. Draining and refilling the fluid yourself isn't hard, but be careful not to contaminate the engine. Pay attention to how the car drives—if acceleration feels rough or there's increased noise, it might be a sign the fluid is old. Plus, regular fluid changes reduce friction, improving fuel efficiency and making the ride quieter. It's a great way for DIY enthusiasts like me to save money and hassle.
