Unlock the Secret to Smooth Driving: How to Change Transmission Fluid 2015 Highlander Like a Pro!

The 2015 Toyota Highlander is a reliable and popular SUV, but like any vehicle, it requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. One crucial aspect of this maintenance is changing the transmission fluid. This guide will walk you through the process of how to change transmission fluid 2015 Highlander, empowering you to tackle this task yourself and save money.

Why Change Transmission Fluid?

Transmission fluid is the lifeblood of your Highlander’s automatic transmission, providing lubrication, cooling, and hydraulic pressure for smooth gear shifting. Over time, this fluid degrades due to heat, friction, and contamination. Failing to change it can lead to:

• Sluggish shifting: As the fluid breaks down, it loses its ability to lubricate effectively, resulting in rough and delayed gear changes.
• Transmission overheating: Degraded fluid loses its cooling properties, leading to overheating and potential damage to the transmission.
• Internal transmission wear: Contaminated fluid can cause wear on internal components, eventually leading to costly repairs or even complete transmission failure.

Preparation is Key: Gather Your Tools and Supplies

Before diving into the transmission fluid change, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials:

• New transmission fluid: Consult your owner’s manual for the recommended type and quantity. Toyota Type T-IV is the specified fluid for the 2015 Highlander.
• Drain pan: A large enough pan to collect the old transmission fluid.
• Torque wrench: Essential for tightening bolts to the correct specifications.
• Jack and jack stands: For lifting the vehicle safely.
• Wrench set: To remove the drain plug and fill plug.
• Funnel: To pour new fluid into the transmission.
• Gloves: To protect your hands from the hot fluid.
• Rag: To clean up any spills.
• Optional: Transmission fluid cooler flush kit (for a more thorough cleaning).

Safety First: Secure the Vehicle

• Park the vehicle on a level surface: This ensures the transmission fluid drains properly.
• Engage the parking brake: To prevent the vehicle from rolling.
• Chock the wheels: Place chocks behind the rear wheels for added safety.

Accessing the Transmission Pan

• Locate the transmission pan: The transmission pan is located on the underside of the vehicle, near the rear of the engine. It’s typically a metal pan with a drain plug.
• Raise the vehicle: Use a jack to lift the vehicle to a safe height, then secure it with jack stands.
• Locate the drain plug: The drain plug is usually located on the bottom of the transmission pan.
• Remove the drain plug: Use a wrench to loosen the drain plug and allow the old fluid to drain into your prepared drain pan.

Draining the Old Fluid

• Allow the fluid to drain completely: This may take some time, so be patient.
• Inspect the old fluid: Note the color and smell of the old fluid. A dark, burnt color or a burnt smell indicates that the fluid is severely degraded and needs to be changed.
• Remove the drain plug: Once the fluid has drained, remove the drain plug and inspect it for any signs of wear or damage.

Replacing the Drain Plug and Gasket

• Clean the drain plug and gasket surface: Use a wire brush or rag to clean the drain plug and the surface of the transmission pan where the plug is inserted.
• Install a new gasket: If your drain plug uses a gasket, replace it with a new one.
• Tighten the drain plug: Use a torque wrench to tighten the drain plug to the specified torque value. Refer to your owner’s manual for the correct torque value.

Refilling the Transmission

• Locate the fill plug: The fill plug is usually located on the side of the transmission, near the top.
• Remove the fill plug: Use a wrench to remove the fill plug.
• Pour in new transmission fluid: Use a funnel to carefully pour the specified amount of new transmission fluid into the fill hole.
• Check the fluid level: Once the fluid level reaches the bottom of the fill hole, stop pouring.
• Reinstall the fill plug: Tighten the fill plug to the specified torque value.

Starting and Checking the Fluid Level

• Start the engine: Allow the engine to idle for a few minutes.
• Check the fluid level again: With the engine running, recheck the fluid level at the fill hole.
• Add more fluid if needed: If the fluid level is low, add more fluid until it reaches the bottom of the fill hole.
• Drive the vehicle: Take the vehicle for a short test drive, allowing the transmission to warm up.
• Recheck the fluid level: After the test drive, recheck the fluid level and add more fluid if necessary.

Final Thoughts: A Job Well Done

Congratulations! You’ve successfully changed the transmission fluid in your 2015 Highlander. By following these steps, you’ve extended the life of your transmission and ensured smoother, more reliable shifting. Regular transmission fluid changes are essential for maintaining the health of your vehicle, and with this guide, you can confidently tackle this task yourself.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: How often should I change the transmission fluid in my 2015 Highlander?
A: Toyota recommends changing the transmission fluid every 100,000 miles or 6 years, whichever comes first. However, if you frequently tow heavy loads or drive in harsh conditions, you may need to change it more often.

Q: What are the signs that my transmission fluid needs to be changed?

A: Signs include:

• Sluggish shifting: The transmission may take longer to shift gears, or the shifts may feel rough or jerky.
• Transmission slipping: The engine may rev up but the vehicle may not accelerate.
• Burning smell: A burnt smell coming from the transmission area.
• Fluid color: The fluid may be dark brown or black, indicating that it is severely degraded.

Q: Can I use a different type of transmission fluid than Toyota Type T-IV?

A: No, it’s crucial to use the specific type of transmission fluid recommended by Toyota. Using the wrong fluid can damage your transmission.

Q: Is it necessary to flush the transmission cooler?

A: While not mandatory, flushing the transmission cooler can help remove any accumulated debris and ensure optimal cooling. However, this requires specialized equipment and is best left to a professional.

Q: Can I change the transmission fluid myself, or should I take it to a mechanic?

A: Changing transmission fluid is a relatively straightforward procedure that many DIYers can handle. However, if you’re not comfortable working on your vehicle, it’s always best to consult a qualified mechanic.