Get new tranny fluid/filter or not?

I took my 2006 Toyota Sienna with 101,000 miles to my local and trusted mechanic to get a transmission flush (new fluid and filter). He pulled the dipstick out and it had a message that said service was not needed on this model. It’s funny because when I asked my Toyota dealer if I should get it done, they gave me a price and didn’t mention that the Sienna didn’t need it. Who do I believe?

Do a service. Toyotas have a drain plug on the transmission pan for a reason. Save some money and do a drain and fill of your fluid. Do a drain and fill every 20-30k miles and you’ll be golden. Also, use Toyota fluid and recommended on the dipstick. It’ll cost a little extra, but it is a whole lot cheaper than a new transmission.

Funny, my trusted mechanic (17 years) said pretty much the same thing when I asked him to drop the pan and replace the tranny filter on my wife’s 2006 Sienna at the last oil change (44k miles). I’ll probably wait till the van hits 50k than have it done.

Ed B.