Auto Tranny Service Recommend?

[Teichs]

I have a 2000 4runner that needs the tranny serviced. Anyone heard anything good or bad about some of these franchise transmission centers (Cottman, Aamco)? Any help would be greatly appreciated. In Austin, TX area if any knows of a good local service shop. Thanks.

[RickMN]

Most of the franchise tranny shops using a flush machine. That's not bad in itself. The problem is that many of these shops use generic Dexron III fluid to flush the tranny. Then they add a friction "modifier" that's supposed to bring it back into Toyota specs. In your case, the book calls for Dexron III fluid. Most other Toyotas call for Toyota T-IV fluid. The Dexron III formula is licensed by GM and that license has been discontinued. GM has just come out with Dexron VI. So whatever Dexron III that's out there is the end of the show. Call a dealer and ask them if Dexron VI is now the fluid of choice or whether they want you to use T-IV.