Transmission Fluid Change 2010 ES350

[acae]

I bought my 2010 ES350 about 7 months ago.  Had 43k, now has 49K.  One owner, seems to have been serviced by Lexus since new.  It looks like the transmission has never been serviced.  Looking at the manual, I do not see a reference for a transmission fluid change until 70k with severe usage.  I would like to change the fluid, but fear I may be asking for trouble at this point due to the age, (2010).  It shifts seamlessly when warm.  When cold, I notice the shifts, for the first few minutes.

Any thoughts or suggestions.  I had it serviced by Lexus at 48k.  They did not mention any issues, but I admit that I did not think to ask at that time to ask about the transmission service.

[RX400h06]

1 hour ago, acae said:

I bought my 2010 ES350 about 7 months ago.  Had 43k, now has 49K.  One owner, seems to have been serviced by Lexus since new.  It looks like the transmission has never been serviced.  Looking at the manual, I do not see a reference for a transmission fluid change until 70k with severe usage.  I would like to change the fluid, but fear I may be asking for trouble at this point due to the age, (2010).  It shifts seamlessly when warm.  When cold, I notice the shifts, for the first few minutes.

Any thoughts or suggestions.  I had it serviced by Lexus at 48k.  They did not mention any issues, but I admit that I did not think to ask at that time to ask about the transmission service.

Quote

It sounds like your Lexus ES350 has been well-maintained, and at 49K miles, you're in a bit of a gray area regarding transmission fluid service. While Lexus recommends a fluid change at 70K miles for severe usage, many experts suggest that changing the fluid earlier—around 50K miles—can help maintain smooth operation and prevent long-term wear.

Since your transmission shifts seamlessly when warm but is slightly noticeable when cold, it could be beneficial to do a drain-and-fill rather than a full flush. A full flush can sometimes dislodge debris and cause issues in older transmissions, whereas a drain-and-fill replaces a portion of the fluid gradually, reducing the risk of sudden changes in performance.

Your Lexus dealership didn’t mention any issues at 48K miles, which is a good sign. However, if you’re still concerned, you might want to ask them to check the fluid condition—if it’s dark or has a burnt smell, a change would be wise. If it still looks clean, you might be fine waiting a bit longer.

 

 

[Carbuff2]

These days, there is usually NO replacement interval for transmission fluid...manufacturers consider it "lifetime". 😒

 

What THAT means, is that it won't cause issues until AFTER the warranty has expired. 🫢

 

++++++++

 

Transmission fluid isn't subject to the same dilution/heat stresses as engine oil, but it CAN accumulate metal particles over time. It certainly IS beneficial to do the drain-and-fill periodically to preserve the internals of the trans.

 

So bottom line, that 50K miles' interval is a good guideline for replacement, IMO.

[acae]

Thank you for your suggestions.  I really appreciate the advice.