Parts for your 2008 Toyota Ractis-Transmission filter

2008 Toyota Ractis transmission filter: what’s fitted and what to service

For most 2008 Toyota Ractis models seen in Australia and New Zealand, a separate, serviceable transmission filter isn’t used. That’s because the majority of JDM-import Ractis vehicles from this year run Toyota’s K110/K111 CVT. According to Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for the NCP100/SCP100 Ractis (2005–2010), CVT variants list an internal “oil strainer” and pan magnets rather than a replaceable external filter. Toyota’s workshop literature for the K110/K111 CVT also specifies routine maintenance as fluid inspection/replacement only, the strainer is addressed during overhaul, not regular servicing.

Why no transmission filter? CVTs in this generation are designed with a fine internal screen and strategically placed magnets to collect wear material, all operating within a very clean, controlled fluid environment. With correct CVT fluid and change intervals, the system manages contamination without needing a screw-on or easily swappable filter. That design reduces restriction in the fluid circuit and helps maintain stable pressure for the steel belt and pulleys—key to CVT longevity.

What should owners service instead? Focus on fluid quality. Use the specified Toyota CVT fluid (typically Toyota CVT Fluid TC or FE, depending on build) and refresh it based on condition, usage and heat load—often around 60,000 to 100,000 km for mixed urban driving in local climates, or sooner if towing, steep terrain or ride-share duty is common. A proper drain-and-fill or measured exchange by a shop that understands Toyota CVTs is the way to go. During major servicing, a technician can remove the pan, clean the magnets and inspect the internal strainer if there are symptoms like shudder, flare or contaminated fluid.

There is one exception worth noting. Some 2008 Ractis were built with a conventional 4‑speed automatic (U340E/U341E) rather than a CVT. Those have an in-pan, serviceable transmission oil filter/strainer. If the vehicle’s build plate shows a U340-series trans, or the shifter pattern and VIN decode confirm a 4AT, then a filter replacement makes sense when the pan is off, alongside a new gasket and fresh ATF.

If unsure which transmission is fitted, check the Trans/Axle code on the firewall plate or ask a workshop to confirm by VIN. That way, the right parts and fluids go in, and the Ractis stays smooth on the school run and weekend roadies alike.

• CVT (K110/K111): no separate serviceable transmission filter, internal strainer and magnets only.
• 4AT (U340/U341): serviceable in-pan transmission filter/strainer, replace during pan service.

Popular questions about 2008 Toyota Ractis transmission filters

How can someone tell if their 2008 Ractis has a serviceable transmission filter?
Check the Trans/Axle code on the build plate. K110/K111 indicates a CVT (no external replaceable filter). U340/U341 indicates a 4‑speed auto with an in‑pan filter. A technician can also identify it by VIN or by inspecting the pan and valve body layout.

What fluid should go in the Ractis CVT, and how often should it be changed?
Toyota specifies genuine CVT fluid (often CVT Fluid TC or FE depending on build). Many NZ/AU workshops recommend fluid service around 60,000–100,000 km under mixed use, sooner if the vehicle tows, climbs hills regularly or sees heavy city heat. Always use the exact fluid type the transmission calls for.

Can an aftermarket inline filter be added to the Ractis CVT?
It’s generally not recommended. The K‑series CVT is designed around internal filtration and magnets. Adding restriction in the cooler circuit can affect pressure and flow. If filtration is a concern, more frequent fluid services and pan/magnet cleaning are the safer path.