How often should the transmission fluid be changed for the Leiling Hybrid?
4 Answers
The transmission fluid for the Leiling Hybrid should generally be changed every two years or approximately 60,000 kilometers. The CVT transmission in the Toyota Leiling is an imported transmission, with the model number AWFCW21 and the brand Aisin. Replacement cycles for different transmissions: Manual transmission fluid is generally recommended to be changed every three years or approximately 100,000 kilometers; automatic transmission fluid is generally recommended to be changed every two years or approximately 40,000 kilometers; continuously variable transmission (CVT) fluid is generally recommended to be changed every two years or approximately 60,000 kilometers. Methods for changing transmission fluid: Method 1: Loosen the drain screw at the bottom of the transmission to drain the fluid and then refill it; Method 2: Remove the transmission oil pan directly to drain and refill the fluid. This method is more thorough than the previous one, as it removes impurities at the bottom of the oil pan; Method 3: Use a circulation machine to change the automatic transmission fluid. Dynamic fluid replacement with an intelligent circulation machine can filter and clean sludge and impurities inside the automatic transmission.
Transmission fluid is equivalent to the lifeblood of the transmission. The ECVT transmission design of the Leiling Hybrid is very worry-free. I just had maintenance done recently, and according to the service manual standards, it should be replaced every 60,000 kilometers or 4 years. However, in actual use, it also depends on driving habits. For those who frequently drive long distances or often encounter traffic jams in summer, it is recommended to check the fluid condition in advance at 50,000 kilometers. Last time, I encountered an owner who used the car in a humid area and found the fluid emulsified at 50,000 kilometers. After replacing the transmission fluid, the jerking sensation disappeared immediately. The new Leiling models now have excellent sealing, but owners of older models should pay attention to whether the transmission oil seal is leaking. Remember to use the original WS-grade fluid at the 4S店 for replacement. They use a circulation machine for oil changes, which is more thorough than gravity-based changes, removing about 90% of the old oil, totaling approximately 8 liters.
The maintenance of hybrid vehicle transmissions is different from that of conventional fuel vehicles. The ECVT transmission in the Leiling Hybrid has a precise structure. From my observation at the 4S shop, they recommend changing the transmission fluid every 40,000 to 60,000 kilometers. Special attention should be paid when driving in winter in areas with temperatures below -20°C, as the viscosity of the fluid can change. It's advisable to switch to a low-temperature type fluid at 40,000 kilometers. I once saw a forum post from a northern car owner who experienced cold-start noises due to delayed fluid change, which were resolved after replacing the fluid. Bringing your own transmission fluid to the repair shop can save you 200 yuan, but make sure to choose Toyota Genuine ATF WS certified fluid. During the fluid change, ask the mechanic to also check the gasket on the transmission oil pan drain plug, as many leaks are caused by aging here.
The replacement interval for the Levin Hybrid's transmission oil depends on usage. For regular city commuting, following the manual's recommendation of 60,000 km is fine, but ride-hailing drivers are advised to change it at 40,000 km. I have a friend who drives 12 hours daily for ride-hailing, covering 200,000 km in 3 years, changing transmission oil every 40,000 km, and the transmission has had no issues so far. Newer models with electronic oil dipsticks don't require removing the oil pan for inspection, but older models suggest replacing the filter when changing the oil. Remember to have the mechanic reset the transmission learning values after the oil change; shifting logic changes after the break-in period, and resetting makes it noticeably smoother. Gravity oil changes at repair shops only require 4 liters, but using a flushing machine yields better results.
