Parts for your 2009 Toyota Blade-Transmission filter

2009 Toyota Blade transmission filter: what’s fitted and what to service

Based on Toyota technical sources (Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue for the E15-series Blade, and the Toyota Repair Manuals for the K31x CVT and U660E automatic), whether a 2009 Toyota Blade has a serviceable transmission filter depends on the gearbox fitted.

• 2.4-litre models with Super CVT‑i (K310/K311): no routine, replaceable transmission filter. They use an internal fine-mesh suction strainer that’s only inspected/replaced during overhaul.
• 3.5-litre Blade Master with U660E 6‑speed auto: yes, a replaceable ATF “oil strainer” (filter) inside the pan, listed as a service part in the EPC and covered in the U660E AT section of the Repair Manual.

Why the CVT doesn’t use a serviceable filter: Toyota’s K31x CVTs rely on extremely clean fluid and an internal strainer designed to protect the pump and valve body without restricting flow. Toyota doesn’t schedule periodic strainer changes, instead, condition-based servicing focuses on fluid health. For these CVTs, use the correct Toyota CVT Fluid FE, keep it clean with sensible drain-and-fills (especially if towing or driving in heat), and only touch the internal strainer if the unit is being rebuilt or contamination is confirmed in diagnostics.

If the vehicle is a 2009 Blade Master V6 with the U660E, it’s a different story. The transmission filter’s job is to trap clutch material, fine metal and other debris so the mechatronics can keep shifting crisply. Over time, that filter can load up, which can contribute to flare, harsh shifts or delayed engagement. As part of a proper service, dropping the pan to replace the filter is a smart bit of preventative care.

What’s involved? With the pan down, the tech will replace the ATF oil strainer and O‑ring, fit a fresh pan gasket, and clean the magnets. It’s all straightforward spanner work, but it needs to be done cleanly. Refill is with Toyota ATF WS only, and the level is set at a specific fluid temperature (around 40°C) using the overflow plug procedure outlined in the Toyota Repair Manual. That temperature-based level set is crucial—get it wrong and you can end up with foaming, airation or shift dramas.

When should it be done? Toyota doesn’t always list a hard interval for WS transmissions, but in Aussie and Kiwi conditions many workshops recommend a pan drop, new filter and fresh WS every 80,000–100,000 kilometres, or sooner if the car tows, sits in traffic in summer, or shows shift issues. If the fluid is burnt or the pan magnets are hairy with swarf, shorten that interval. Always reseal correctly, torque fasteners to spec from the manual, and road‑test to confirm smooth operation.

Bottom line for owners: identify which gearbox your Blade has. CVT models focus on correct fluid and condition-based servicing, the V6 U660E benefits from periodic filter and pan service to keep it shifting sweetly for the long haul.

FAQs

How can someone tell if their 2009 Blade has a replaceable transmission filter?
Check the driveline: a 2.4-litre with Super CVT‑i generally won’t have a routine service filter, while the 3.5-litre Blade Master with the U660E does. The build plate/ID label and VIN decode in Toyota’s EPC will show the transmission family. If in doubt, a workshop can confirm by inspecting the pan layout—U660E pans include a replaceable oil strainer inside.

What fluid should be used, and how much goes in?
CVT models use Toyota CVT Fluid FE, U660E autos use Toyota ATF WS. Don’t mix fluids. A simple drain-and-fill replaces only a portion of total capacity (several litres), while a pan drop on the U660E typically takes a bit more. Always set the level using the factory temperature procedure.

Is adding an external filter to the CVT a good idea?
Generally not recommended. The K31x CVT is calibrated for specific flow and pressure. Extra filtration can cause pressure drops and odd behaviour. Stick with the correct fluid, keep it clean with sensible intervals, and only service the internal strainer during overhaul per Toyota’s guidance.