Your's truly spend last weekend replacing a Toyota Tercel transmission/trans-axle because a previous owner failed to keep the differential portion of the transmission filled with the proper fluids. You see, unlike some front wheel drive cars, my 91 Tercel has 2 separate compartments for ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) that must be kept filled and 2 separate drain plugs for the two no so distinct parts of the transmission/trans-axle.
The drain plugs are easily found on the bottom of the trans-axle but the filler/check fluid level plug is harder to see as it is located on the back side in the middle of the rear cover. To check the fluid level you simply remove the plug and stick your little finger in the hole. If the fluid isn't up to the top of the whole you'll need to add more by using a funnel connected to a hose that you run into the same hole where you check the fluid level.
Taking the time to check this one fitting could save Tercel owners hundreds of dollars in repairs and add many years to the life of a great little car.
