how much automatic transmission fluid to switch for 2007 camry

ANSWER : Hi there. I’ll try to clarify this for you as it can be a bit confusing. When you replace the standing oil (or oil inside the pan of the transmission) it typically is around 4 quarts of ATF. During a standard transmission oil change, that’s how much fluid is typically used. However, the transmission is comprised of multiple hydraulic lines that have fluid inside them under pressure. This fluid does not "drip" to the pan. It is removed during a transmission flush. The amount of transmission fluid inside these lines, the torque converter and other transmission components equals about another 4 quarts. So, when we complete a transmission fluid service, we are fully flushing all old transmission fluid from the entire unit; which is where we get the 8 quart requirement. It’s always a good idea to have the transmission fluid FLUSHED instead of simply changing 1/2 of the fluid.

ANSWER : This would depend on what the manufacturer recommends. Many manual transmissions do take automatic transmission fluid. If your transmission has ATF in it, it is very likely that it is supposed to have that in there. If not, it is likely that the transmission would not function properly with the wrong fluid. Many manual transmissions will also take engine oil as a lubricant. The best way to know for sure is to check your owner’s manual or call your local General Motors dealership to inquire.

ANSWER : Hi there. In most cases when you overfill the transmission fluid it can cause excessive foaming of the fluid or possible internal component failure due to excessive pressure inside the hydraulic lines. Sensors like the speed sensors however are rarely impacted by this situation. However, in regards to the possibility of probability of this; I would say perhaps a 10% chance.

ANSWER : That’s a very good question. The reason they have gone with no dipsticks is because they don’t want people messing with transmissions other there at the dealership. Some cars went through that a couple of decades ago. They make it a very involved, convoluted process all through, in order to change the fluid on these modern cars. They have special adapters you have to put. Some of them have to have scan computers in order to read the data and what’s in there, and then be able to change it. A lot of these companies claim that this new fluid is the "lifetime" fluid.

Most new use synthetic fluid can last a long time but any fluid is going to get dirty and wear out over time. I would change it at least every 80,000 – 100,000 miles but if you’ve got one that is really hard to change, you are better off hiring a mechanic to do it.

On some of the cars, it would be too hard for the do-it-yourself because of all that equipment you need. The professional mechanics already have that. Just call any good mechanic, like one from YourMechanic, and they will be able to perform a transmission fluid service for you.

ANSWER : I would recommend buying the correct fluid. The reason is because I want to make sure your car is taken care of and is running as long as possible. You wouldn’t want to put something foreign in your car that it may not accept unless you’re willing to accept risks. Different fluids have different chemicals in it. It may cost more right now, but you won’t have to spend money buying a new transmission or having one rebuilt.

ANSWER : The PCM and TCM that you presently have are incompatible with a manual transmission. The PCM hardware and some engine controls, particularly relating to idle speed and electronic "dashpot", would be different too. The only way you could reliably do such a swap is if you changed out the vehicle’s electrical system, include the wiring harness to the transmission and engine, and even that wouldn’t be a guarantee of success if your vehicle also has a body control module (i.e., that would have to be changed out as well). Your only practical option is to have the existing transmission re-built or install a re-manufactured one. Even going that route, you have to be extremely careful and vigilant that you get an EXACT replacement, in every respect, because even minor year to year differences in electronic controls could render the unit unusable. In some locales, certified Mechanics from YourMechanic will perform engine and transmission replacements, so please inquire if you simply want to repair what you have. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

ANSWER : Based on the NHTSA database covering consumer complaints, as well as government mandated recalls and factory service bulletins, for your specific year, make and model, I do not see evidence of widespread complaints about transmission fluid leaks. Such leaks are, in fact, common in transmissions made by any car company, particularly if the transmission is older than say 10 years. There is a manual shaft seal, oil pan gasket, output shaft seals, case seals, torque converter seal (inaccessible) and so forth all of which are potential leak points on your transmission.

If you want to identify and resolve these leaks, certainly a certified Mechanic from YourMechanic could come out and perform a transmission leak inspection and let you know where the leak points are and what it will cost to resolve them.

ANSWER : Hi, thanks for writing in. I looked at your maintenance schedule for your vehicle and found that for up to 150,000 miles, it only says to inspect the fluid level and not change it. The fluids are special fluids and if you did need any work done (i.e. if there is a leak present or other mechanical problem) then make sure the correct Ford certified fluid is used.

When it is time for you to have your transmission fluid serviced, consider having a certified automotive technician from YourMechanic come to your home or office to perform the service for you.

Hope this helps and best of luck!