4Runner 5-speed auto

[LarryL]

The dealer told me that I should have the transmissioin flushed with a power flush system and add their expensive dealer only transmission additive. After hearing him explain to the customer in front of me that 5w30 was too thin for Southern California freeway driving and that you should run 10w30 because it's twice as thick, I choose to not have the transmission service.

So here's my plan. Every 15k miles, pull the plug on the pan and drain at least what ever gomes out, the 4 qts. I know that that's not all the fluid. But I plan to do this every 15k miles and skip that power flush and additive. I did it at 15 and again at 30k and I'm using Red Line D4 ATF. This is not the transmission with the missing dipstick and the forever fluid. Any comments, and what are you doing?

 

[Cutehumor]

I don't have a 4 runner auto, but a vibe auto with corolla transmission. states to use toyota t-IV fluid only. I plan on drain/fill every 15k miles with toyota t-IV. I do not know of any syn that meets toyota t-IV. unless someone here knows?

 

[The Critic]

Larry,

The 2003 Toyota 4-spd Automatic transmission requires a Toyota T-IV fluid.

You stated that you're currently using Redline D4 ATF in place of Toyota T-IV. How's the shifting compared to the Toyota T-IV fluid?

RL does not list Toyota T-IV compatibility on their D4 ATF's product data sheet, though I did talk with Dave @ Redline a while back, and I believe he told me that D4 ATF is now compatible in Toyota T-IV applications, but I do not remember for sure.

One other BITOG member had a quick lube accidentally install Dexron-III into his Celica transmission requiring Toyota T-IV, and he experienced harsh shifts (or slippage).

I'd prefer to use the Genuine Toyota T-IV in this transmission considering that the vehicle is still under warranty, and the Genuine Toyota product is the only “certified” fluid. The cost is quite reasonable, about $5.00/qt with tax.

If you really desire a synthetic ATF, I’d use either Amsoil Universal ATF or Molakule’s Autoglide T-IV.

At this point, I’d call Redline to verify the Toyota T-IV compatibility with their D4 fluid. If you’re uncertain, add 6 oz of Lubegard Platinum ($14.99 @ Napa Auto Parts) to the transmission to add the needed dynamic friction properties or drain/fill the transmission twice with a compatible fluid.

 

[unDummy]

Meets the spec??? I bet that most beat it. T-IV is nothing but a mineral ATF with long life additives and anti-shudder protection.
So, do you need eternal life additives from OEM ATF if you plan an changing that ATF at a normal interval??

But, if that transmission requires Toyota WS(the fuel saving, oxidation stable, super duper ATF(sounds like Mercon SP or Dexron VI)), the shift quality might change due to the difference in vicosity and viscosity curve. And, you might lose 1/10 or an MPG!

15k drain/refill is good for that transmission. I would reference the FSM for the correct method for topping off the ATF. Nothing worse then running a too high/low level because of the lack of a dipstick!

D4 is good stuff. If you're happy with the shift quality, stick with those 15k-4-quart services!

 

[LarryL]

quote:

---

The 2003 Toyota 4-spd Automatic transmission requires a Toyota T-IV fluid.

---

I don't know anything about the 4-speed. Mine is a 5-speed. So far, 33k+ miles it shifts great, even when towing. The one thing I have noticed is that the dip stick is hard to read. Also, when new with the original factory fill, the transmission shifted a little harsh in below freezing weather for a few miles. With the RL D4 it shifts very smooth, even when it's cold outside.

I wanted to ask the question about doing a partial change every 15k miles. The dealer was a bit pushy about having to do the power flush. I wonder if Toyota knows that their transmissions need all that?