How many quarts of transmission fluid does a 2008 Toyota Rav4 take?

For a typical transmission service on a 2008 RAV4, plan for roughly 10 quarts of ATF if you replace the filter and drain the system. Exact amounts depend on drive type and service method.

The 2008 RAV4 is equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission (A750E). Its total ATF capacity is around 10 quarts when performing a full service; a simple drain-and-fill uses significantly less fluid. Use the ATF type specified by Toyota and verify the level after warming up the engine and vehicle according to the owner's manual.

ATF capacity and service options

Below are the common service scenarios you might encounter when servicing a 2008 RAV4's transmission. The figures are approximate and can vary by market and vehicle condition.

• Full transmission service (pan drop, new filter, torque converter drained, and fill to the correct level): about 9.5–10.5 quarts.


• Drain-and-fill service (pan drain only, no filter replacement, refill to hot-spec level): about 4–6 quarts.

If your vehicle is AWD, the overall capacity for a full service remains similar, but it's wise to confirm any additional drain or fill requirements with a Toyota technician.

ATF type and checking the level

Use Toyota-approved transmission fluid. For many 2008 RAV4 models, Toyota WS (World Standard) ATF is recommended; Dexron VI is acceptable in some markets or after certain service bulletins. Always match the specification in your owner’s manual. After adding fluid, check the level with the engine at operating temperature and the transmission in Park or Neutral as specified, using the dipstick or level marks on the reservoir.

Practical considerations by drivetrain

The RAV4's transmission capacity doesn't vary dramatically between front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, but the overall system layout (and the torque converter drain) can affect the exact amount required during a full service. If you're unsure, err on the side of slightly overfilling to the recommended level and then remove a small amount if necessary after the fluid cycles through the system.

Summary

For a 2008 Toyota RAV4, plan on about 10 quarts of ATF for a full transmission service, with a drain-and-fill requiring roughly 4–6 quarts. Always verify the exact specification in the owner's manual and use the correct ATF type (Toyota WS or Dexron VI as applicable). Regular maintenance helps protect the transmission and prolong its life.

How much transmission fluid does a 2008 Toyota RAV4 take?

The 2008 Toyota RAV4's automatic transmission fluid capacity is approximately 3.7 to 3.8 quarts for an initial fill and 8.1 to 8.6 quarts for a total fill, depending on the specific transmission and engine. For a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine with a U151F transmission, the initial fill is about 3.8 quarts, and the total fill is 8.6 quarts. For a 3.5L 6-cylinder engine, which also has a U151F transmission, the initial fill is around 3.6 quarts and the total fill is 8.1 liters (about 8.6 quarts). 
This video demonstrates how to change the transmission fluid and filter on a 2006-2012 Toyota RAV4: 56sMasterJacksYouTube · Mar 24, 2018

• Initial (Drain and Fill) Capacity: Around 3.7 to 3.8 quarts
• Total (Dry Fill) Capacity: Around 8.1 to 8.6 quarts
• Fluid Type: Toyota ATF WS 

This video shows how to check the transmission fluid level in a Toyota RAV4: 56s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Aug 29, 2019

How to check transmission fluid on a 2008 Toyota RAV4?

To check the transmission fluid in a 2008 RAV4, start the engine and let it warm up for a few minutes, then park on a level surface with the parking brake engaged. With the engine still running, cycle the transmission through all gears (Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive), holding each for a few seconds. Wipe the transmission dipstick, reinsert it, pull it out again, and check the level against the "hot" markings.
 
This video shows how to check transmission fluid in a 2005-2016 Toyota RAV4: 1m1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Aug 29, 2019
Detailed steps

1. Warm up the engine: Start the vehicle and allow the engine to run for a few minutes to warm up the transmission fluid. 
2. Park on a level surface: Park the car on a flat surface and engage the parking brake. 
3. Cycle through gears: With the engine still running, keep your foot on the brake and shift the transmission into each gear (P, R, N, D), pausing for about 2–5 seconds in each position before moving to the next. 
4. Return to Park: Shift the transmission back into Park. 
5. Locate the dipstick: Find the transmission fluid dipstick. It's typically a long, often yellow or orange-handled, loop or stick located near the firewall, to the right of the oil dipstick. 
6. Wipe and re-insert: Pull the dipstick out, wipe it clean with a lint-free rag, and then fully reinsert it for a few seconds. 
7. Check the fluid level: Pull the dipstick out again. Look for the "hot" marks on the end. The fluid level should be between the two "hot" dots. A "dry spot" on the stick is the true fluid level. 
8. Check the fluid condition: The fluid should be reddish-pink and clear, not brown or burnt-smelling. 

Important notes

• If the fluid is low: Add the correct type of transmission fluid (check your owner's manual) a little at a time, rechecking the level until it is correct. Be careful not to overfill. 
• Sealed transmissions: Some modern Toyotas have a "sealed" transmission without a dipstick. If you cannot find a dipstick, the level can only be checked by a mechanic who will need to use a special procedure, as shown in this YouTube video. 
• Safety: Always keep the engine running and your foot on the brake while checking the fluid, and be careful of the hot engine and moving parts. 

This video demonstrates how to check the transmission fluid level in a Toyota RAV4, highlighting important safety precautions: 58sToyota MaintenanceYouTube · Mar 22, 2019

How many quarts of transmission fluid do I need for a drain and fill?

For a standard transmission fluid drain and fill, you'll typically need 3 to 5 quarts, but you should always measure the amount you drained and refill with the same amount to start, then check the level using the dipstick after running the engine. The exact amount varies by vehicle, and it's crucial to check the owner's manual or look up specifications for your specific make and model, as a drain and fill will not replace all the old fluid. 
How to determine the right amount

• Drain the old fluid: Let the old fluid drain completely. 
• Measure the drained fluid: Measure how much fluid was drained. This is your starting point for refilling. 
• Refill with the measured amount: Put the same amount of new, correct transmission fluid back into the transmission. Using a funnel can help with this process. 
• Start the engine: Start the vehicle and let it run for a few minutes, shifting through all the gears (Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive) while holding the brake. This circulates the new fluid. 
• Check the level: Turn the engine off and check the fluid level with the dipstick. Add more fluid in small increments if the level is low, or drain a small amount if it's too high. 
• Re-check: Repeat the process of running the engine and checking the dipstick until the fluid level is correct according to the dipstick's hash marks for a "hot" reading. 

Important considerations

• A drain and fill is different from a full transmission flush, which requires significantly more fluid (10-12 quarts or more) because it aims to replace all the fluid, including what's in the torque converter. 
• You should always use the specific type of transmission fluid recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer to avoid damage. 
• Some vehicles, like certain Land Rovers, do not have a dipstick and require a fluid extractor to add new fluid. Consult your owner's manual to be certain. 

How many quarts of transmission fluid does a RAV4 take?

The Toyota RAV4 transmission fluid capacity varies by model year and transmission type, but a common capacity for the 6-speed automatic transmission is approximately 6.5 to 6.8 liters (around 6.9 to 7.2 quarts) for a total fill, while a drain and fill typically requires only 3.7 to 4.5 quarts. Always consult your owner's manual or a professional mechanic for the most accurate information for your specific vehicle. 
You can watch this video to learn how to change the transmission fluid on a 2016 Toyota RAV4: 59sdavidgpoYouTube · Aug 15, 2025
Typical capacity by model year

• 2013-2018 2.5L 6-speed automatic: Around 6.5 to 6.8 liters for a total fill, with a drain and fill around 4 quarts. 
• 2005-2012 4-speed automatic (U241E): Total fill is about 9.1 quarts, with an initial fill of 3.7 quarts. 
• 2006-2013 6-speed automatic: Approximately 6.7 liters for a total fill. 

Important considerations

• Total fill vs. drain and fill: A "total fill" capacity accounts for a complete transmission flush, while a "drain and fill" only replaces the fluid that is drained from the pan and does not include the fluid in the torque converter. 
• Consult your manual: The most accurate information for your specific vehicle is in its owner's manual, as capacities can differ even within the same model year. 
• Use the correct fluid: It is crucial to use the specific type of transmission fluid recommended by Toyota, such as Toyota ATF WS (World Standard), to avoid damage.