How much transmission fluid does a 1997 Toyota Tercel take?
In brief, the 1997 Toyota Tercel’s transmission fluid capacity depends on which transmission it has. Automatic transmissions typically require about 8–9 quarts for a full drain-and-fill, while manual transmissions use roughly 2–3 quarts. Always verify the exact figure for your car’s specific transmission code in the owner's manual or service manual.
Transmission options on the 1997 Tercel
The 1997 Tercel offered both automatic and manual transmissions. Fluid type and capacity vary between these configurations, so it’s important to identify which transmission your car has before buying fluid or starting a change. The following guidance reflects common practice for this model year, but the exact spec can differ by transmission code.
Automatic transmission
Automatic transmissions in the 1997 Tercel typically use Dexron II/III–compatible ATF. The capacities below assume a full drain-and-fill with pan and filter replacement. If your service procedure uses a machine flush, the total amount may be higher.
- Full drain-and-fill (pan removed, filter replaced, possible torque converter drained): about 8–9 quarts (7.5–8.5 liters).
- Pan drain only (refill after draining the pan, without removing the torque converter): about 4–5 quarts (3.8–4.7 liters).
- Machine flush (complete system replacement): may require roughly 10–12 quarts (9.5–11.5 liters) depending on system procedures.
Always verify the exact capacity for your vehicle using the service manual and avoid overfilling, which can cause shifting issues or damage.
Manual transmission
Manual transmissions in this model typically use gear oil (GL-4 75W-90, or as specified by the manual). The capacity is around 2–3 quarts for a full drain-and-fill, though it can vary by gearbox code. Some variants may hold a bit more, so consult the manual for your exact transmission code.
- Full drain-and-fill: about 2–3 quarts (1.9–2.8 liters).
- Partial drain/refill (pan-only): about 2–3 quarts (1.9–2.8 liters).
Check the owner’s manual or the transmission service data for the precise specification and use the recommended gear oil type for your transmission.
How to check and top off safely
To ensure you add the correct amount of fluid and avoid overfilling, follow these general steps for the appropriate transmission type. The steps below assume you’re performing a standard maintenance drain and fill rather than a full flush.
- Run the engine to operating temperature, then park on level ground and set the parking brake.
- Automatic transmissions: with the engine running, check the ATF level on the dipstick as specified by your manual (Park/Neutral position depending on model). Add fluid slowly in small increments and recheck.
- Manual transmissions: check the level according to the manual, and add the correct GL-4 gear oil through the fill plug or dipstick tube as instructed. Do not use automatic transmission fluid unless the manual specifies it.
- Never overfill. Allow fluid to settle for a few minutes after adding, then recheck and adjust as needed.
Note: Some 1997 Tercel automatics have no traditional dipstick. If your car doesn’t show a dipstick or you’re unsure of the level, seek professional service to avoid under- or overfilling.
Summary
The 1997 Toyota Tercel’s transmission fluid capacity depends on whether you have an automatic or manual transmission. Plan for roughly 8–9 quarts for a full automatic drain-and-fill (more if flushing), and about 2–3 quarts for a full manual drain-and-fill. Use Dexron II/III–type ATF for automatics and GL-4 75W-90 gear oil for manuals, unless your specific transmission code specifies otherwise. Always consult the owner's manual or a service manual for your exact transmission code to confirm capacities and fluid specifications. If in doubt, a qualified technician can help ensure the correct amount and type of fluid are used.
By identifying the transmission type and following the manufacturer’s guidelines, you can maintain smooth shifting and prolong the life of your 1997 Tercel’s transmission.
How many quarts of oil does a 1997 Toyota Tercel take?
Oil Grade: SL
| Viscosity: | 10W-30 (Above -18°C) 5W-30 (Below 38°C) |
|---|---|
| Capacity: | 3 quarts (with filter). After refill check oil level. |
| Torque: | 18 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug) |
How much transmission fluid does a 1997 Toyota Corolla take?
The 1997 Toyota Corolla transmission fluid capacity depends on the engine size and transmission type. The 1.6L engine with a 3-speed automatic transmission (A131L) requires a total fill of approximately 5.8 quarts (5.5 liters), while the 1.8L engine with a 4-speed automatic transmission (A245E) requires a total fill of around 8 quarts (7.6 liters).
You can watch this video to learn how to change the transmission fluid in a 1997 Corolla: 44sAuto FixYouTube · Aug 13, 2022
- For the 1.6L engine with a 3-speed automatic (A131L):
- Total Fill: ~5.8 quarts (5.5 liters)
- Initial Fill: ~2.4 quarts (2.3 liters)
- For the 1.8L engine with a 4-speed automatic (A245E):
- Total Fill: ~8 quarts (7.6 liters)
- Initial Fill: ~3.3 quarts (3.1 liters)
How many quarts of transmission fluid does a 47RE take?
The 47RE transmission has a total capacity of approximately 14.8 to 16.9 quarts (14-16 liters), while a typical service fill is around 4 to 6 quarts. To properly fill the transmission, add the initial 6 quarts, then start the engine, and add the remaining 7 to 8 quarts in increments while checking the fluid level with the engine running and the transmission in neutral, as per Goerend Transmission.
47RE transmission oil capacity
- Total capacity: 14.8–16.9 quarts (14–16 liters)
- Service fill capacity: Around 4–6 quarts for a basic fluid change
How to fill the transmission
- Add initial fluid: Pour about 6 quarts of transmission fluid into the dipstick tube.
- Start the vehicle: Turn the engine on and let it run for a short while.
- Add more fluid: Add another 7 to 8 quarts of fluid through the dipstick tube.
- Check the level: With the engine running and the transmission in neutral, check the fluid level. Read the dipstick from the low side.
- Top off: Add fluid until it reaches the full mark.
- Final check: Drive the vehicle for 5–10 miles and recheck the fluid level one last time.
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.
