HELP Accidentally drained trans fluid? ?

Could use some input on this one guys! I hope I didn’t mess up to bad!

Went to go do my oil change on 17’ TRD OR AC AUTOMATIC ( have done several with no issues) and I must have gotten distracted because I accidentally took off the drain plug for the transmission pan ( I believe). Will post pic.

I first got suspicious when only 3 qrts. drained out and then I noticed the position of the plug ( on the pan under the trans) and the fluid was clearly red atf not oil after closer inspection. Super bummed at my goof on this one. Truck has 48 k on the clock and had no intent to mess with the trans system at all at this point into its life.

So where do I go from here? Only 3 qrts. Total drained not the whole 11 thats in the system.
Can I do a quick refill of 3 qrts and button back up? Safely drive to dealership 10 miles away and fork over the cash for a flush of the whole system?

This is not a troll post, just a DIY’er willing to admit when he made a mistake and needs some advice!

 

pretty sure you can just put the 3 qts back in and be fine

 

It's a closed system, there is no way to replace the fluid.

It's totaled. Sorry.

Not really...
Remove the fill plug on th eside of trans and pump in 3 qts

 

Well this is a first

 

is it? cause ive read over a dozen threads of people doing this lol

 

wow...no comment...lots of info on that there...internet..sad.sad.sad... wow

 

14mm Plug

 

Again????

 

Yup, tranny drain plug.

 

Pan with drain plug location visible

 

I assume you have an auto trans? If so its not a simple drain and refill. I'd have it towed to the dealer and explain to them what happened

 

Yes it is automatic

 

Atf isn't a 14mm plug...

Nvm wwas thinking diff

 

make sure you put the drain plug back in before you fill it

 

Drive another vehicle or Uber/Lyft to your local auto store. Get the trans fluid the manual calls for and get a hand pump for the bottles. (Be sure to get an extra bottle.)

 

Use he info in the thread linked below for the procedure to add fluid and check the level. Make sure you use the correct fluid (ATF-WS - available from the dealer or Amazon). The pictures in the linked thread will also help you confirm if you drained the transmission.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/3rd-gen-automatic-transmission-fluid-level-check-diy.547455/

 

Use this thread to figure out the fill plug. Put in 3 quarts. Follow the process in the thread to ensure you have the correct amount of fluid. You will also need to get a new transmission drain plug crush washer.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/3rd-gen-automatic-transmission-fluid-level-check-diy.547455/

 

If you can know (measure) how much came out you can put the same amount back in. Get a new crush washer.

 

Definitely don't drive the truck if the pan is empty. You'll risk damaging the pump and clutches.

Try and find a ride to the store and pick up some ATF. If you want to be one and done, and do it properly, follow the lengthy procedure for fluid temp checking... if you just want to get the truck to the dealer ASAP so they can take care of it, then fill till it comes out the overflow, and drain out maybe 1/4-1/2 quart. Or have it towed, but that will probably cost more.

 

This woman does a great job on how to refill the transmission.