I had a local shop who specializes in Toyota/Lexus drain and refill my Tranny at 60K for 95 bucks total. Well worth it in my opinion since i plan on driving this thing into the ground. Im handy and could certainly do it myself but figured or the 50 bucks or so in labor id have the shop do it again at 120K. But then i got to thinking that i haven't seen a Blackstone report on the WS ATF anywhere. So im guessing i would need 2 of the tests at 30 bucks each, one to evaluate the used ATF and one to compare with the new ATF? If i did the drain and refill myself plus shipped out 2 tests id be around 100 bucks meaning the same as having the shop do it. Opinions?
I make my decisions regarding car repairs around what I can the "Two" option. Can I do it under 2 hours? and/or will it cost under $200? If it is yes to the cost, I do it myself, but, sometimes the cost is so low, I just let the mechanic do it. Using this in your scenario I would have them do it for the $95. Just my opinion.
I'm at a point in my life where I view time differently than say, 30 years ago. Back then, I would spend all day under the hood having fun!!
Smart cus: 1. For many decades, most cars with automatics have recommend a change. Not as often as the engine oil, but regularly. The prius transaxle may be different, but it's not that different. 2. As alluded to by @Montgomery, it's an hour or two out of your lfe, $40 if you DIY, $90~100 if you pay someone. not a big deal. Sweating the pros/cons pales when it so simple/cheap. 3. Most everyone is noting distinctly darker fluid on the first drain, not so much on subsequent drains. Not scientific, but evidence that something is changing over time, especially with the factory installed fluid.
