FJ owners, I'm usually at 2nd gen 4runner section. I decided to read about FJ. This vehicle (fj) seems like what 1st-2nd gen 4runners evolved to. Anyways, I noticed in fj specifications that tranny has a "fill-plug" instead of dipstick.(check/fill). Is it easy or hard to monitor trans fluid quantity/condition or maybe it's not even an issue. Thanks I would like my 11 yr. old daughter to have a fj when it is time for a vehicle for her.

 

Manual or auto?

 

I've never seen a manual with a dipstick.... That's how it is. All autos should have one

 

If your fj is an automatic, then it is equipped with WS transmission fluid, which isn't supposed to be serviced till 100k miles, then every 50k after that.

If you've got a manual, then the fill plug doubles as a check plug to make sure the fluid level is correct.

 

There is a whole damn procedure to fill the auto's with 4.0 motor. No dipstick on the later models. Just plugs. Its something like, fill specified amount, run motor in drive, remove level plug, if a certain amount comes out you did it right. If not, you gotta do it all over again.

 

Sounds like fun, at least it sounds better then the VW DSG Auto servicing. I was debating about buying a newer auto TDI. But that went out the window when I seen that disaster.

 

It has a drain plug and overflow plug. You have to run it until the trans fluid reachs a specific temp, with it running in that temp range you remove the overflow plug and see how much comes out. steady stream=overfull, steady drip=good, couple drips or nothing=underfilled. WS is a life time fluid. only time needs checked is if its leaking or transmission concern, otherwise leave it be.

 

Your procedure is correct, but stating that WS fluid is a lifetime fluid isn't. The FSM states replacement at 100k, then every 50k after that. We do quite a few WS services here at my dealership. I'm surprised more dont follow the recommendation.