[John Da]

I have a 2003 Toyota Tacoma 6 cyl. I am now using Mobil 1 5-30 oil. Can I also use Syn fluid for Trans? How about also power steering? I want to get the best protection available. It isn't used off road. Thanks John Da :)

[TxGreaseMonkey]

Yes, I use synthetic automatic transmission fluid in my 2000 Taurus AX4N Transaxle and in the power steering unit. I've been doing this for years. You will have no problems. Just make sure the fluid (e.g. Amsoil or Mobil 1 Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF) meets the specs for you vehicle, as I believe they do. Both my transaxle and power steering pump run silky smooth in the Texas heat--they both get quite a work out.

Most people don't realize the heat, problems, and expense that can arise from an improperly maintained power steering unit. It can cost over $2,000 if the problem involves the rack and gear. If you want, use a battery squeeze bulb ($2.50 at Advance Auto) to suck out part of the power steering reservoir. Only suck out the fluid to the top of the hose feeding the power steering pump. You don't want to get air in the system. Do this several times or once every time you change your engine oil and filter. Be sure not to overfill the MAX line on the reservoir, when hot.

[John Da]

Who will do this for me? My Toyota dealer or my other mechanic? I'm new to trans axle--- is this more fluid then auto trans?

[TxGreaseMonkey]

A transaxle is for a front-wheel drive car. You have a regular transmission. Here's how to properly do the job yourself:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-t...tml#post552241

Here are the capacities for your Tacoma:

CAPACITIES
Engine, 2WDwith filter... 5.7 quarts[1]
Engine, 4WDwith filter... 5.5 quarts[1]
Cooling System, Initial Fill... 11.0 quarts
AMSOIL Antifreeze and Engine Coolant
Automatic Transmission, 2WD Initial Fill... 2.1 quarts[2]
Automatic Transmission, 4WD Initial Fill... 2.1 quarts[2]
Automatic Transmission, Total Fill
A44D... 6.9 quarts

1. After refill check oil level.
2. With ENG at operating temperature, shift through all
Gears. Check fluid level in PARK and add fluid as needed.

Therefore, you need to buy at least 7 quarts. The Mobil 1 Synthetic Multi-Vehicle ATF is available at WalMart for around $5.75 per quart.

[John Da]

Do I siphon fluid from power steering? Do they make Mobil 1 power steering fluid?

[TxGreaseMonkey]

Sipon from the power steering reservoir. You can use the Mobil 1 synthetic ATF in your Tacoma. Unlike GM, I believe your Tacoma uses automatic transmission fluid, not power steering fluid, for lubricating the power steering system. Check your owner's manual.

[John Da]

Do you know capacity of power steering? :)

[TxGreaseMonkey]

No. Suck out the fluid to the level I mentioned above, empty it into a plastic beaker, mark beaker, empty old fluid out, fill beaker with new fluid to the mark, and pour into reservoir.

[John Da]

Thanks Txgreasemonkey!!! I have extended warranty --- Will Syn Void it?? I don't believe it should. Jonn Da

[TxGreaseMonkey]

Not if the lubricants meet Toyota's specs.

[John Da]

Do I have to have trans pan removed,or is there a drain plug like oil pan,to do transmission?

[TxGreaseMonkey]

I believe you only have a pan, without a drain plug.

[John Da]

Thanks TXgreasemonkey :) :D

[John Da]

TXgreasemonkey--------- My owner manual calls for dextron 2-or 3 for power steering. Do you know if mobile 1 ATF Syn is OK?

[TxGreaseMonkey]

You're covered. Call 1-800 ASK-MOBIL to allay any fears.

[John Da]

TXgreasemonkey
My 2003 6 cyl trans fluid is type T-IV?? I am confused,if mobile 1 is comparable with T-IV.
If not, do you know another quality Syn trans fluid comparable with Type T-IV?? Thanks, John Da. 800 # really didn't help me.

[TxGreaseMonkey]

You can't use the Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF in your transmission, but you can use Amsoil's Synthetic Universal ATF:

AMSOIL - Synthetic Universal Automatic Transmission Fluid

You can still use the Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF in your power steering system.

[John Da]

Thanks TXgreasemonkey---------- Have you ever used AMSOIL?? I really never heard of it. John Da

[TxGreaseMonkey]

Yes, for years. They make AWESOME products. Become a Preferred Customer and get 20% off.

I've used their products in automatic and manual transmissions; car and truck engines; power steering units; home air conditioners; two-cycle chain saws, blowers, and weed eaters; and mowers. They make some of the best lubricants in the world, in every category.

[John Da]

Souds like a Great Oil :) I hope I can get it locally by me at Auto Stores?