When is the last time you had your transmission flushed? If you canāt remember, it might be time to consider getting it done. But is a transmission flush necessary?
A transmission flush is something that should be done regularly. This helps to prevent build-up in the transmission and keeps it running smoothly.
What Is a Transmission Flush?Ā
A transmission flush is a process in which all of the old fluid is flushed out of the transmission and replaced with new fluid.
This ensures that your transmission is filled with fresh, clean fluid that contains the proper additives.
Does Ford Recommend Transmission Flush
Yes, Ford recommends transmission flushes and they are considered necessary. Ford has issued a technical service bulletin (TSB) recommending transmission flushes for certain vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions.
The TSB applies to the following vehicles:
- 1998-2002 Crown Victoria
- 1998-2002 Grand Marquis
- 1998-2002 Lincoln Town Car
The TSB recommends that a transmission flush be performed every 30,000 miles or 24 months, whichever comes first. This is to prevent potential transmission problems with ford such as shifting issues, slippage, and premature wear.
If you are experiencing any of the aforementioned transmission problems, then a flush is definitely recommended. Even if you are not experiencing any problems, it is still a good idea to have the flush done to prevent potential future issues.
At Ford dealerships, the cost of a transmission flush ranges from $149-$199. However, you can often find special offers and coupons that can lower the cost significantly.
Shop around and compare prices before having the work done.
What Does Transmission Fluid Do?Ā
Transmission fluid is vital to the operation of your vehicle’s transmission. It helps to keep all of the moving parts properly lubricated and cool. Over time, transmission fluid can become dirty and contaminated.
This can lead to the formation of sludge and deposits, which can clog the filter and restrict fluid flow. This can cause shifting problems, slippage, and premature wear.
Over time, transmission fluid can also become depleted of the special additives that help to keep it lubricated and protect against wear. This can also lead to transmission problems.
How Often Should You Flush Your Transmission?Ā
Most experts recommend that you flush your transmission every 30,000 miles or 24 months, whichever comes first. However, if you are experiencing any transmission problems, then a flush is definitely recommended.
How to Check Your Transmission Fluid
If your transmission is acting up, itās probably time for a flush. But how do you know if the fluid needs to be changed?
There are a few ways to check your transmission fluid:
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Check the Dipstick
The easiest way to check your transmission fluid is to simply check the dipstick. Most vehicles have a dipstick located under the hood, near the transmission.
- Simply remove the dipstick and wipe it clean.
- Reinsert the dipstick and pull it out again.
- Check the level of the fluid and make sure it is between the “full” and “low” markings.
- If it is low, add more fluid until it reaches the “full” mark.
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Check the Color of The Fluid
Another way to check your transmission fluid is to simply check the color of the fluid. The transmission fluid should be a bright red color. If it is dark or brown, it needs to be changed.
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Listen for Strange Noises
If you notice any strange noises coming from your transmission, it may be an indication that the fluid needs to be changed. Common transmission problems include grinding, whining, and humming noises.
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Look for Leaks
If you notice any fluid leaking from your vehicle, it could be an indication of a transmission problem. Transmission fluid is typically red in color and has a sweet smell.
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Check the Transmission Fluid Level With the Engine RunningĀ
If you want to be absolutely sure that your transmission fluid is at the correct level, you can check it with the engine running. First, warm up the engine for a few minutes.
Then, with the engine running, remove the dipstick and check the level of the fluid.
The fluid should be at the “full” mark. If it is not, add more fluid until it reaches the correct level.
Do Newer Cars Need Transmission Flush?
Newer cars typically do not need transmission flush as often as older cars. This is because the transmissions in newer cars are often sealed, which prevents the fluid from becoming dirty or depleted.
However, it is still a good idea to check your transmission fluid level regularly and to have the flush done every few years, just to be on the safe side.
How Long Does it Take to Perform an Automatic Transmission Flush?
An automatic transmission flush usually takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour to complete.
This includes the time it takes to drain the old fluid, add the new fluid, and then test drive the vehicle to make sure the new fluid is circulating properly.
What Brand of Parts Do You use for the Automatic Transmission Flush?
We use only high-quality parts for our transmission flushes. We typically use transmission fluid from Valvoline or Castrol. For the filter, we usually use a WIX or Purolator filter.
And for the gasket, we usually use a Felpro or Victor Reinz gasket.
What is the Cost of an Automatic Transmission Flush?
The cost of an automatic transmission flush varies depending on the make and model of your vehicle. However, the average cost is typically between $150 and $200.
What Happens if You Don’t Change the Transmission Fluid?
If you don’t change your transmission fluid, the fluid will become dirty and depleted. This can cause a number of problems, such as transmission slippage, gear grinding, and even transmission failure.
Ultimately, it is much cheaper to change the fluid on a regular basis than it is to repair or replace a damaged transmission.
Is it Better to Rebuild or Buy a New Transmission?
If your transmission is having serious problems, it is usually better to replace it with a new or rebuilt transmission.
This is because rebuilding a transmission can be quite expensive, and often times the results are not as good as a new or rebuilt unit.
I hope this guide has helped you enough to know does ford recommend transmission flush? Happy reading
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