Transmission service

Took our 2021 Tacoma, 3.5 l, to the dealership today to get a automatic transmission drain and filter replacement. I did not want a complete flush, just drain the pan, replace the filter and clean the pan magnets off. The engine has almost 50k on the odometer. The technician said that Toyotas do not have filters in the transmission, and they only do a complete flush. I did not want to argue, so I let it go as he checked the truck in. After he had checked the mileage, and VIN, I tried talking to him again. I said I am sure it has a filter, is it just Toyotas maintenance practice to just flush and they do not do the simple drain and replace filter, or is he saying there is no filter in my transmission. He again said, it does not have one, and no Toyota has one. He had been a master tech for over 30 years. So I did a quick google search for the Toyota part number for the filter, and it came up with the p/n and a picture. He stuck to his guns that my truck does not have a filter. What has been your experience with your dealership and getting the transmission serviced. We just bought the truck, so I did the front and rear axel, transfer case, plugs, PVC valve and the brake fluid. I just don't like doing transmission work in my garage. The auto parts store will not take used fluid, and it is always a mess no matter how hard I try to not spill any. I went ahead and had it flushed, we had to wait 3 weeks for an appointment, and I wanted to get it done before we go out of town in a couple weeks. Thanks Phil

 

Oops, put this in gen 4 accidentally. Disregard, and I will put it in the right forum.

 

Dealers are shills for manufacturers. I always take my cars to a dedicated Trans shop that I trust. I only go to dealers for recommended (and free) maintenence.

 

Something is wrong when a dealer declines business and argues "we only do XXX" with the customer. I would have left the place right then. Maybe he was a Master Tech for 35 years at a Yugo dealer? the only make I can think of that might not have a transmission filter.

The first time I had my transmission serviced, at 104,000, I had them do a flush, and refused the filter change. (it has one) When 60k has elapsed, I will have them do a drain and fill: no pan dropping unless it's leaking, no filter change. The next one, and any subsequent transmission service, will be drain and fill only. FWIW: the dealer specifically asked me what I wanted (flush or drain and fill) and if I wanted the filter replaced.

No arguing, and no trying me get me to flush-and-fill the Blinker Fluid or replace the "revascilator" valve.