The service manual says warm the engine until the radiator fan turns on once (max twice). Then turn off engine. And check auto trans dipstick within 60-90 seconds.

Does this mean wait 60 seconds and check, but before 90 seconds lapses? Or check immediately within 90 seconds maximum?

 

Wait a minute and check, no need to get scientific about the fluid level.
Main item is that the fluid should be up to temp as the fluid will expand.

 

I have found it easiest to just measure what I remove and put back the same. Then check after driving around on a test spin. I have never had to top off or been low using this method. Now unfortunately cars are coming with no trans. dipstick.

 

you mean some of them come with sealed transmission since they have "lifetime" fluid?

 

The service manual clearly states what to do. Whats so confusing about it?

 

That's what they say. Our Optima Turbo (274HP) comes with a trans, although not sealed there is no dipstick, but they can be drained and refilled when necessary. Drain, fill until fluid drains out the fill hole, drive, up to temp, on level ground open fill plug and let fluid flow out and when stops it's filled. Ridiculous with no dipstick.

 

Some are like that but many just don't put a dipstick up top. The TLX has a drain and fill plug under.....still can be done just more of a pain....think the new RDX does the same. I think it is the manufacture tossing dealerships a bone for service $.

The lifetime fluid transmissions are bull$hit. If the fluid is lifetime, then the warranty should also be lifetime. So if it fails after 300,000 miles, then give me a new one. Apparently some of the Toyotas have "lifetime" fluid but it can be serviced....I am sure at a overly high cost.

 

Its a well know issue with Toyota, You can change the fluid it just a hassle as you will need a pump to pumping out the old fluid then checking the ATF temp via secret diagnostic code flashing. I found it out the hard way on a LS460 and BTW dealer wanted $550 plus tax just to drain out 3 quarts.

I am starting to dislike Toyota product (2015 and afterward) tho since they sway into "German" car foot step in term of electronics and unnecessary complication.

 

Not really relevant, but our old '08 Optima that the daughter is using at 294,000 miles and never had a ATF change, runs great, never a problem, and that car has been used hard.
Certainly wouldn't want to try that on the TL.