Replace the transmission oil cooler, which circulates ATF through the radiator or separate cooler to maintain proper transmission operating temperature.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Transmission oil cooler assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Transmission cooler line O-rings × 4 — Use OEM specification
• Transmission drain plug crush washer × 1 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Toyota WS ATF — 5 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure engine and transmission are cool to the touch
2. Raise vehicle and support securely on jack stands at all four corners
3. Remove front engine splash shield and undertray panels for access
4. Place drain pan under transmission
5. Have shop towels ready for fluid spills

Procedure

1. 1

   Drain transmission fluid
   Remove transmission drain plug from the bottom of the transmission pan. Allow fluid to drain completely into drain pan. Inspect condition of fluid and drain plug crush washer. Replace crush washer during reassembly.
   Torque spec

   Transmission Drain Plug30 Nm (22 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Locate transmission oil cooler
   On 2012-2017 Camry 2.5L models, the transmission oil cooler is integrated into the bottom passenger side tank of the radiator. Identify the two transmission cooler lines running from the transmission to the radiator lower tank. Mark which line connects to which port using tape or paint marker.
3. 3

   Disconnect transmission cooler lines at radiator
   Using flare nut wrenches to prevent rounding, disconnect both transmission cooler lines at the radiator fitting connections. Have a drain pan ready as residual ATF will drain from lines. Cap or plug open ports immediately to prevent contamination.
   ⚠Use flare nut wrenches only. Standard wrenches will round off these fittings.
4. 4

   Remove radiator support bracket if necessary
   If replacing the cooler section integrated into radiator, remove upper radiator support brackets using 10mm socket. On some models, partial radiator removal may be required for cooler replacement. If replacing external cooler only, skip this step.
5. 5

   Remove old transmission oil cooler
   For integrated cooler: The cooler is part of the radiator assembly and requires radiator replacement. For external auxiliary cooler (if equipped): Remove mounting bolts securing cooler to frame or radiator support. Disconnect inlet and outlet lines. Remove cooler assembly.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts61 Nm (45 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Inspect cooler lines and fittings
   Examine both transmission cooler lines for cracks, damage, or excessive corrosion. Check threaded fittings for damage or cross-threading. Inspect rubber hose sections for deterioration. Replace any compromised components.
7. 7

   Install new O-rings on cooler fittings
   Remove old O-rings from transmission cooler line fittings. Lubricate new O-rings with clean ATF and install onto fittings. Ensure O-rings are seated properly in their grooves without twisting or pinching.
   ⚠Always replace O-rings when disconnecting cooler lines. Reused O-rings will leak.
8. 8

   Install new transmission oil cooler
   Position new cooler assembly in mounting location. For integrated radiator cooler, install radiator assembly following radiator replacement procedures. For external cooler, align mounting holes and install mounting bolts finger-tight. Verify cooler does not contact surrounding components.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts61 Nm (45 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Connect transmission cooler lines
   Reconnect transmission cooler lines to proper ports as marked during removal. Thread fittings by hand first to prevent cross-threading. Tighten fittings using flare nut wrenches until snug. Do not overtighten as fittings can strip easily.
   ⚠Cross-threaded cooler fittings require expensive line replacement. Thread by hand first.
10. 10

    Reinstall radiator brackets and shields
    If removed, reinstall upper radiator support brackets. Reinstall front engine splash shield and undertray panels. Ensure all fasteners are secure.
11. 11

    Refill transmission with ATF
    Install drain plug with new crush washer. Locate transmission fill plug on driver side of transmission case. Remove fill plug and add approximately 5 quarts of Toyota WS ATF through fill hole using fluid pump or funnel. Fluid should reach bottom of fill hole when level is correct.
    ⚠Only use Toyota WS ATF. Other fluids will cause transmission failure and void warranty.
    Torque spec

    Transmission Drain Plug30 Nm (22 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Check ATF level and bleed air
    With vehicle on level ground and transmission at operating temperature (150-180°F), start engine and shift through all gear positions, pausing 3 seconds in each. Return to Park. Check fluid level at fill plug - fluid should drip slowly from hole. Add or drain as needed to achieve proper level.

Reassembly

1. Tighten all cooler line fittings evenly without over-torquing
2. Ensure transmission drain plug crush washer is new and properly seated
3. Verify all splash shields and undertray panels are reinstalled
4. Double-check all cooler mounting bolts are torqued to specification

Verification

• Start engine and allow to reach operating temperature while monitoring for leaks at cooler connections
• Check transmission fluid level using proper hot check procedure with engine running
• Test drive vehicle through all gears and verify smooth shifting with no slipping
• Re-inspect all cooler connections and mounting points for leaks after test drive
• Verify transmission temperature gauge reads normal operating range (if equipped)
• Check for proper ATF level again after test drive and top off if necessary

More procedures for this vehicle