How to change the transmission fluid — Toyota RAV4 2020

Tools you'll need

• Ratchet
• 10 mm hex socket for the drain plug
• 6 mm hex socket for the overflow plug
• Torque wrench
• Fluid pump
• Drain pan
• Gloves
• Scan tool or infrared thermometer

Parts you'll need

• Toyota ATF WS automatic transmission fluid (about 3 to 4 quarts for a drain and fill)
• New drain plug washer
• New overflow plug O-ring if yours is worn

Steps

1. Warm up the transmission and park on level groundDrive the car for about 10 minutes so the transmission fluid is warm, then park on a perfectly level surface and set the parking brake. A level car matters because the fluid level is set by an overflow tube, not a dipstick.
   Tip: Warm fluid drains faster and carries more dirt out with it.
2. Drain the old fluid and measure itSlide under the car and place a drain pan under the transmission drain plug. Remove the plug and let the fluid drain fully, then measure how much came out so you know how much to put back.
3. Refit the drain plug and open the fill plugRefit the drain plug with a new washer and tighten it. Then remove the fill plug on the side of the transmission case.
4. Add the same amount of new ATF WS fluidPump new Toyota ATF WS fluid in through the fill hole until you have added the same amount that drained out, usually about 3 quarts. Use only ATF WS; the wrong fluid can damage the transmission.
   Tip: A cheap fluid pump that screws onto the bottle makes this job far easier.
5. Start the engine and cycle through the gearsRefit the fill plug, start the engine, and with your foot on the brake, shift slowly through every gear and back to Park. Let the engine idle so the fluid circulates.
6. Set the level with the overflow plug at the right temperatureWith the engine still running and the fluid at the correct temperature (about 95 to 113 degrees F, checked with a scan tool or an infrared thermometer on the pan), remove the overflow check plug. Fluid should trickle out in a thin stream. If none comes out, add a little more fluid. If it pours out, let it drain until it is a thin stream, then refit the plug.
   Tip: The level is correct when fluid just trickles from the overflow tube at the right temperature, not when the transmission is cold.
7. Refit the plugs and check for leaksRefit the overflow plug, wipe everything clean, and check the drain and fill plugs for leaks. Lower the car if it was raised.
8. Test drive and check for leaksTake a test drive through all the gears. Shifting should feel smooth, with no slipping, harsh shifts, or delay. Check under the car again after the drive for any sign of a leak. Remember this is a drain and fill, so it replaces about a third of the fluid; that is normal and safe for this transmission.

Safety first

This guide is for the gasoline RAV4 with the 8-speed automatic. The hybrid RAV4 uses a different transmission and a different procedure, so do not use this guide on a hybrid. Transmission fluid is hot after driving, so wear gloves. If you are not confident, have a qualified technician do this job.