...while draining the transmission it was obvious that the ATF was almost flawless.
Comparing the ATF after the first drain (left), second (middle) and third (right) one can clearly make out the discoloration (left) after at least 50,000 miles (don't know if the stuff was ever changed - 138,000 total miles). The color became much better after drain number 2 (middle) and then flawless after the third and 500 miles (right). I shook up the containers so one can see the true color of the fluids (the bottles in front respectfully contain the milk jugs ATF and are colorless).
In conclusion, the drain and fill method was very easy and straight forward. I am very satisfied with the results and after returning 3 qts back to the dealership the whole process cost me $63. As mentioned before, the original fluid was by no means burnt or in any way in bad shape, but certainly discolored. Now that I have done the ATF replacement, I will keep a good eye on the fluid level and looking for any leaks in the future. The shifting of the gears is very smooth (did not have any issues prior) and I will do this again in about 50,000 miles.
Jan
