Trans Fluid

hl · #1 (**permalink**) 06-26-2005, 03:35 AM

I would like to go to synthetic trans fluid at 1st change, but Toyota dealer says it won't work and have to use Toyota type. What is the truth? Also they tell me that there is no replaceable trans filter, just a screen in the 2002 4 cylinder model trans. Has anyone been in it to see? Thanks

Rlockyer · #2 (**permalink**) 06-26-2005, 04:37 AM

Check your dipstick to be sure, but most likely, your Highlander is using Toyota type T-IV trans fluid. This may or may not be a synthetic, we're not really sure, but it is considered a "lifetime" fluid under normal operating conditions, and 60k under "severe" conditions.
It's a dealer-only product.

Amsoil claims that their synth ATF is compatible, Mobil specifies that their synth ATF is not.

basian99 · #3 (**permalink**) 06-26-2005, 08:42 AM

I find it amazing that if you talk to 3 different dealers you will get 3 different answers. I was at my dealer on Friday and they told me that the Type -IV was a semi-synthetic and that the WS was a full synthetic. He also told me that if you have the Type-IV it still needs to be changed, just not often. If you have the 'sealed' system....(i.e.............no dipstick for tranny fluid) then you have the WS fluid which is supposed to go the life of the vehicle w/o changing........................