What kind of transmission fluid does a 2008 Lexus IS250 take?
The 2008 Lexus IS250 uses Toyota/Lexus ATF WS (World Standard) automatic transmission fluid.
For this model, the WS specification is the manufacturer-approved fluid designed to deliver the correct friction properties and reliable shifting for the six-speed automatic. Substituting older Dexron fluids is not recommended unless explicitly approved by Toyota/Lexus for your exact transmission variant.
Official specification
The IS250’s six‑speed automatic transmission is designed to operate with Toyota/Lexus ATF WS (World Standard). Using WS ensures proper hydraulic pressure, shift quality, and temperature management. Always verify the correct fluid type in the owner's manual or with a Lexus dealer, especially if you’re sourcing fluid from third-party brands.
Practical guidance
If WS fluid is unavailable, consult a Lexus dealer or qualified technician before using any substitute. Do not assume Dexron II/III or other older fluids are compatible without explicit confirmation for your exact transmission variant, as incorrect fluid can affect performance and longevity.
Summary
For a 2008 Lexus IS250, the recommended transmission fluid is Toyota/Lexus ATF WS (World Standard). Always confirm the specification in the owner’s manual or with a dealer, and avoid using non‑WS fluids unless expressly approved for your transmission.
Where is the transmission dipstick on a 2008 Lexus IS250?
The 2008 Lexus IS250 does not have a transmission dipstick and instead uses a sealed transmission with a fill plug and an overflow/check plug accessed from underneath the vehicle. To check the fluid level, you need to get the transmission to operating temperature, remove the underbody plastic cover to access the plugs, and then open the overflow plug to allow excess fluid to trickle out until the correct level is reached.
Why there is no dipstick
- Modern transmissions, like the one in the 2008 IS250, are more complex and often have "lifetime" fluids that are not meant to be checked or changed regularly, according to JustAnswer, Instructables, and YouTube users.
- Because of this, they are sealed and do not have a dipstick to avoid incorrect fluid levels from inaccurate checks.
This video demonstrates how to check the transmission fluid level on a Lexus ES300, which may be similar to the 2008 IS250: 50shoohoohoblinYouTube · May 22, 2022
How to check the fluid level
- Warm up the transmission: Drive the car to bring the transmission to its normal operating temperature.
- Access the plugs: Park on a level surface, raise the vehicle, and remove the plastic cover underneath to access the transmission pan.
- Remove the overflow plug: Locate the overflow/check plug (a 5mm hex plug) on the side of the transmission pan.
- Let fluid trickle out: With the engine running, open the overflow plug. Fluid should trickle out. If it doesn't, it's low. If it drains out in a steady stream, it's overfilled.
- Reinstall the plug: Once the fluid is just trickling out, reinstall the plug to the proper torque specification.
You can watch this video to see how to check the transmission fluid level on a Lexus IS250: 58sChristian MastrileYouTube · Aug 13, 2024
How much transmission fluid does a Lexus IS250 take?
The Lexus IS250 automatic transmission fluid capacity for a drain and refill is about 2 quarts for 2WD and 3 quarts for AWD. The total capacity is around 7.6 to 9.4 quarts depending on the model (2WD or 4WD), but a drain and refill will not replace the total amount of fluid in the transmission. The manual transmission has a capacity of 1.8 quarts.
Automatic Transmission (A960E)
- Drain and refill (2WD): ~2 quarts
- Drain and refill (AWD): ~3 quarts
- Total capacity (2WD): ~7.5 to 7.6 quarts
- Total capacity (AWD): ~9.4 quarts
Manual Transmission
- Drain and refill: 1.8 quarts (1.7 L)
This video shows how to change the transmission fluid on a Lexus IS250: 49sChristian MastrileYouTube · Aug 13, 2024
Important notes
- Always use the correct fluid type, which is Toyota Genuine ATF WS for the automatic transmission and SAE 75W-90 (API GL-4 or GL-5) for the manual transmission.
- A drain and refill will only replace a portion of the old fluid. Multiple drain and refill cycles are recommended to replace a higher percentage of the old fluid.
- For an automatic transmission, it's best to fill the new fluid to the overflow plug after reaching the correct operating temperature to ensure the proper level.
You can watch this video to see how to properly refill the transmission fluid: 52sBuilt for SpeedYouTube · Aug 14, 2021
What transmission fluid does Lexus use?
Lexus recommends specific transmission fluids for its vehicles, primarily using Toyota Genuine ATF WS for most modern transmissions and Toyota Genuine ATF Type T-IV for older models. Always consult your owner's manual or a Lexus dealer to confirm the exact fluid type required for your specific vehicle, as using the wrong fluid can cause damage.
Transmission fluid types by model year
- Toyota Genuine ATF WS: This "World Standard" fluid is used in most newer, sealed Lexus transmissions.
- Toyota Genuine ATF Type T-IV: This fluid is specified for many older Lexus models.
Important considerations
- Check your owner's manual: The most accurate information for your vehicle is in the owner's manual. This will specify the correct fluid type, viscosity, and capacity.
- Avoid mixing fluids: Do not mix different types of transmission fluid, as this can negatively impact performance and potentially damage the transmission.
- Use the correct procedure: If replacing the fluid yourself, ensure you follow the correct procedure for checking and filling the transmission to the proper level.
- Consider a professional: If you are unsure about the process or lack the right equipment, it is best to have the service performed at a Lexus dealership to avoid damage.
What kind of transmission fluid does a Lexus IS 250 take?
The correct Lexus IS250 transmission fluid type is Toyota ATF WS (World Standard). While some aftermarket fluids like Aisin ATF-OWS or compatible synthetic fluids are options, always check your owner's manual for the specific recommendation, as it is the most reliable source for your vehicle.
Key details
- Fluid type: Toyota ATF WS is the recommended fluid for most Lexus IS250 models.
- Aftermarket fluids: Some Aisin, Idemitsu, and Valvoline MaxLife fluids can be compatible alternatives, but verify them with your owner's manual or a Lexus dealer.
- Why use the correct fluid: Using the wrong fluid can cause transmission damage, so always confirm compatibility before adding a new fluid.
- How to confirm: The most accurate way to determine the correct fluid is by checking your vehicle's owner's manual.
You can watch this video to learn how to change the transmission fluid on a Lexus IS250: 1mGarageKingYouTube · Jul 19, 2025
