Tran fluid and differential fluid- same dipstick???

[edwardh1]

I have a 2004 TWO WHEEL drive highlander.
If I check my transmission fluid level am I also checking the transaxle level or are they two different things?

[kathyricks]

same thing. Check only after driving 20 minutes or more in the city or suburbs. Level should be at or near the Full mark. If overfull, drain a cup or two at a time from the drain plug in the transmission oil pan and recheck. Underfilling = lethargic acceleration, poor fuel economy, high transmission temperatures and wear. Overfilling = possible foaming of the fluid or irregular and damaging transmission shift behavior, especially during hot weather.

[LifeTech]

If fluid is needed, only top off with the proper type Toyota ATF.
Do not deviate from this. But, your fluid should not be low. The fluid doesn't "burn off" like engine Oil does, unless yu have a problem. Check that fluid color is not Dark, has sediment or even Brownish with a burned smell. Having a fresh qrt. of Toyota fluid to compare is good here.

Also, now might be the time to check your Maint. Schedule and do a Trans. Pan drain and fill. Yu will need approx. 5-6 qrts.

Doing a Transmission Pan Drain and Fill is great preventative maintenance if yu do it earlier than Toyotas recommended interval.

LT