Can we change ATM fluid without changing filter?
 

Hi Guys,

I've 2008 Camry(2.5) which is running on 140k last time i changed ATM fluid and filter on 80k.

When i went for oil change last weekend the guy there told me to change ATM fluid and he also told me changing ATM fluid is enough you'll save some money+time too.

Now my question is: Is it recommended to change filter every time we change Automatic transmission fluid? What would happen if i change oil only? Does it hurts car? and when is recommended to change this fluid? (Yes, I dont have owners manual book)

Cheers!!

Sunny

What trans model. Look on the side of the drivers door for the number. Something like U241E or U250E.

Manual states to inspect the fluid starting around 30K.

The filter is a screen which typically never needs cleaning. The real issue is just changing the fluid in the trans pan only result in draining approx 1/3 of the total fluid, the rest is in the trans torque converter. This fluid can not be drained out.

To change all the fluid requires what some call a flush. This process adds new fluid as the oil fluid is removed and typically requires removing the trans pan.