Should I change my transmission fluid if I have 237k miles?

Yes.

The 'old wives tale' about issues with older automatic transmissions concern parts the Prius does not even have. The worries are about clutch bands and the hydraulic logic body, and the Prius lacks both, so they can't go wrong.

 

New CVT fluid of some sort . I did not use dealer . Changed about 30K ago . Came out black . Went in red . Had 250 or K on it . Was not low.

 

Yes. Change it ASAP. I think it is a 24mm socket. I bought an 8 point one. Just drain from lower and pump into the upper bolt. well worth the time spent. If your CV axles have torn boots. Now would be a perfect time to replace them. FYI.

 

Absolutely change it.

Fresh fluid MIGHT cause problems on a conventional automatic transmission that's looking for an excuse to die anyway.

Prius does not have clutches or bands like a conventional trans. The fluid just cools and lubricates moving parts. Changing the fluid will help extend the life of the transmission.

Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.

 

Sure, why not. 2nd gen Repair Manual does not have a specific instruction for transaxle fluid drain-and-fill, because you never have to change it, right...? Anyway, attached is the gen 2 level check, and the gen 3 change instruction (FWIW). Also see relevant link in my signature for some tips.

 

237k Mileage.
Not sure, how long will you keep the car?
Currently does the car shift and feel smooth?

I believe 4 qts of Toyota fluid and the two seals (retail) total = $80.
Dealership labor = guess one hour = $160?
So a total of $240.

Besides above my comments, I agree to do only a drain and refill and to use only the Toyota fluid... DO NOT let the dealer do a machine flush.

Simple enough to change but if DIYing noting you'll need rubber tube as a filling tool/ source from the tranny to the engine bay. I've also seen two torque specs for the drain and fill plugs (either 26 or 36 ft lbs as I recall - 30 ft lbs would be a safe conclusion). And of course, remove the fill plug first .

Good luck with your decision.

 

Another proof that lifetime fluids lasts as long as the transaxle. However, since the fluid change is just drain and refill in 10 minutes and fluid so inexpensive I would change it to last another 200k.

 

Yeah the complexity is about on par with an oil change, without filter change.