Ford Explorer Transmission Fluid Change How To

[@Chauc3r]

thank you for the fantastic video. very clear and concise. wish me luck tomorrow! :)

[@bryangilbert2127]

Thank you, I’m glade there are people out there that want to help us “shade tree mechanics”.

[@indianoutlaw2419]

Excellent video. Thank you. My Explorers transmission had a shudder. That's corrected and running perfectly!

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

It is always uplifting to hear when my videos have helped someone! Thanks for watching.

[@treythomas4437]

Did it jerk when accelerating

[@shineyboi]

F

[@r4ndo636]

Just bought one that’s got the same thing. I need to try this.

[@jasoncedar9996]

Thanks!! Saved me a couple hundred bucks and it went smoooth. Gotta love the fill port?

[@PyroRen1124]

Question: if you removed the fluid while it was hot (which greatly expands when hot), and put in the same amount of cold fluid, wouldn’t you be overfilling the transmission?

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

Great question! After letting it drain and by the time I (or you) measure the amount, the fluid is much cooler and, therefore, an accurate measurement when refilling. I did not mention that in the video, so thanks for pointing out the discrepancy. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@1yachtcarpenter]

Thank you for making this video. If it ever stops snowing here in NY, I will do mine with confidence.

[@keyzaccord1774]

Haha, I was finally able to do my change today since it was warm

[@1yachtcarpenter]

@@keyzaccord1774 It's 31F. right now. I have a couple months to go. I'm glad I drive my 4x4 V8 '03 Explorer in the winter because the '17 sport sucks on snow and ice..

[@elmorelitos1]

this is a very good video thanks for sharing XT-10-QLVC MERCON LV IS THE RIGHT ONE thank you very much

[@dindinmann]

The video is great, but I have questions. At the beginning of the video, you said that you would need approximately 12 quarts of transmission fluid. 144 oz is about 4.5 quarts. How do you replace all the fluid if only 4.5 quarts comes out of drain hole?

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

Thanks for the question, yes you have to repeat the steps 2-3 times. There is not a way to get all the fluid out at one.

[@nealsissons1877]

⁠so I actually need 14 qts on hand?

[@russellberry2350]

Great Explanation Sir....

[@rickburns4572]

Great vid. Thanks for posting. Now I’ll do it myself.

[@patickjamsz1433]

So might be a dumb question. But you do it three times. So the new fluid get wasted or is it just old fluid running through the transmission.

[@ericrollins8960]

So it took 4.5 quarts? Trying to figure out how much to buy? First time doing it.

[@markfink7146]

I have a 2015 Ford Explorer sport 3.5, it looks to be the same.... we do mostly city driving and pull a boat at times have 65,000 miles, should i be doing this soon?

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

Yes, I would do it ASAP. Thanks for watching!

[@sopharchan2022]

On the manual book it said they don’t need to be change but I feel my transmission stutter on 3rd gear so iono what to do

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

I would start with checking the level. It will not hurt to change the fluid but it may not help and therefor hurt your pocketbook. Thanks for watching.

[@Eric_4fun]

What was the mileage on your 2017 Explorer when you change the transmission oil?

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

About 60k. Thanks for watching!

[@Kay-dx8vm]

You said that you checked the fluid after driving it around for 20mins, but does your vehicle require checking the fluid level while the engine is running? Mine is 16 Explorer platinum and the manual says I have to check it while the engine is running, which seems impossible without having to remove the air filter housing. I know the correct way is to put in the same amount of the fluid that you took out but I've done this drain-refill 2 times already and I have a feeling that I messed up the correct amount by quite a bit

[@jeffg5576]

This is the same question I had about checking it while it’s running and no one in KZbin is explaining that simple procedure. I don’t have the manual on my explorer, so I’m kind of screwed wasting hours trying to find out a simple answer. You would think the author of this video will take his time as a courtesy to answer your question.

[@Kay-dx8vm]

I'm sure you can download the manual for your truck. Mine requires checking the fluid while the engine is running and to the operating temperature, I just checked mine the other day (engine hot and running) and sure enough, the fluid was right at the MIN mark when it was supposed to be at the HOT FOUID mark @@jeffg5576

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

There are two approaches. If it is not leaking and shifting ok just check the level not running. When refilling just match the previous level. It is okay to start the car with the air box removed as long as you are able to do it in an environment where no debris will be pulled in the intake and never drive it in that state. Running it without the airbox and MAF will cause a check engine light but after 20 miles of driving it will clear itself.

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

One of the problems with filming how to videos is forgetting to film some steps, making the assumption some parts are common knowledge and getting behind on making follow up videos. I'm guilty of all of the above and unfortunately I don't have access to another Ford Explorer Sport to film a how to on checking the level. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@ManWithAPlan83]

GREETINGS FROM UTAH. DOING THIS TO MY 2017 SPORT THIS WEEKEND. ONE QUESTION, WHEN YOU DRAINED IT, YOU SAID 144 OZ CAME OUT. BUT WHEN YOU REFILLED IT TO DRIVE FOR 20 MINUTES, YOU ONLY PUT 113OZ? HOW COME. THANK YOU IN ADVANCE.

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

Thanks for the question. I misspoke. If you look at the measuring cup in the video, it goes to 70 ounces. The first fill of the measuring cup took it up to 70 oz and the second to 43 oz for a total of 113 oz. Assuming your Explorer is at the proper level, only put in what you take out. I hope that clears things up. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@joesantm]

How many quarts did u used ?? I need to do that same service to my 2013 FE Sport

[@drew7014]

Bro it says right in the beginning of the video lol

[@davepond2404]

Thanks for showing the way! So no need to drop the pan or anything like that? The twice draining/20-minute drive takes care of most of that?

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

No pan on that transmission, you would have to split open the case and that requires removing it from the car. At that point you might as well have it rebuilt. :-) Just the base fluid change is all it needs.

[@Senanalqoshnaya1820]

Hi I just change my cv axle for both sides , explorer limited 2016 front sides When I change them today , some fluid come out so what u think about it !! I have to change all oil or just add what I lose ,, thanks for ur video

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

You can just add fluid. No need to change it. Thanks for watching.

[@giovannirocke656]

Did u get new axle seals as well?

[@demo2382]

So in this video you exchanged the fluid 3 times? How did the fluid look on the last drain?

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

Yes, it was drained 3 times. The fluid was dark red at the final drain. Thanks for watching!

[@SR-gt350]

Im having issues with the 2016 exploder 4cyl ecoboost transmission. It tends to bang into reverse once you've only throttled up like its not getting pressure thru the solenoid. Ive had the reverse solinoids replaced twice. First time under warranty. Second time it never helped. I replaced the whole valve body and solinoids, and there was no change in the reverse bang. I've changed the fluid twice, with lucas aditive no change. I believe there is a glitch in adaptive learning. I've had it reset and still issues! It angers me after 100 years of design that computers are destroying transmissions when mechanical transmissions worked fine. Aaaaaaaaaah! Help!

[@woohyukchoi5004]

My vehicle is 2018 Ford Explorer sports 3.5,V6 I have a question how much transmission fluid should i put ?? After drain.. Please let me know! Thanks

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

My recommendation is to measure the amount of fluid that is drained out and readd that amount. Then check the level and top off from there if necessary. Thanks for watching.

[@woohyukchoi5004]

@@andysgarageadventures8043 thanks for letting me know, by the way Did you put 4 quarts? Total

[@جبرنيالوقت-ك2ط]

@@woohyukchoi5004 5 quart’s my friend

[@arebee92]

Thanks! Fixing to do this with our 2014!

[@chavezhernan]

Hello andy. Changing thiss also change the ptu oil inside?

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

Sorry no that is a separate process. The exhaust needs to be removed to access the fill plug. I would love to make a video on it but I don't have access to one that needs that service performed. Thanks for watching.

[@ian441c]

@@andysgarageadventures8043 Yes, it is tight, but a 3/8" Craftsman wrench is quite capable of fitting up there without removing anything. Just changed mine a few minutes ago. Make sure that the exhaust is cool. The Ford Explorer's PTU is not as tight as changing a 2018 Mini Cooper JCW PTU. For the Mini, I disassemble a folding allen key set, then slide an 8mm offset box wrench onto the shaft of an 8mm out of the set to access the drain and fill plugs. For the Explorer, I use just the 3/8" ratchet head in the fill plug. Then use a harbor freight fluid transfer pump with the smallest hose it comes with to diligently, and patiently suck all of the old fluid out. Refill with gear oil until the fluid starts to trickle and then stops. Thoroughly clean the magnetic fill plug and apply a bead of Permatex high temp thread sealant. Re-install the fill plug. Do not overtorque it, as that may lead to cracking the case. For the oil, I use Amsoil 75w-140. Original is Motorcraft 75W-90. I prefer the higher flash point of the Amsoil fluid given the heat soaking that happens there. It has served me quite well.

[@jaimemunoz9415]

did i miss you say, check fluid level while engine is running or check with engine off ?

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

The engine does not need to be running but the fluid needs to be at operating temperature. Thanks for watching.

[@jeffg5576]

Can you elaborate a little bit more? No one is explaining the procedure in detail. If the engine is running, will check the transmission fluid or not. Obviously the transmission fluid is going to be moving around if engine is on and there is a huge difference on the level while it’s running. I tested for my own, when is running, it shows full. When is shut it off with the fluid hot it shows empty. Will be nice to be sure to explain this in detail and go by the vehicle’s manual.

[@shineyboi]

​@@jeffg5576when it's cold the fluid should show halfway on the hash marks (xXx). When at operating temp should show at full line (hot/max)

[@andrewshah10]

Hey man great video. I just changed my wife's Explorer 17 platinum this weekend with the help of your video. One thing that was confusing was the drain bolt. The vehicle only has 40k, just recently bought. I doubt any transmission service was done, but anyway it seems like ford doesn't tighten these bolts very tight in factory. I didn't have to apply any pressure to remove. There is also another bolt that looks identical to the drain bolt, i believe it is a vent or something like that. But if you notice---at least three or more threads are outside of the hole. When I was tightening back the bolt, i was very cautious in how tight i made it. I tried putting it back to exactly where it was originally, but i notice that it still has more room to be tightened. By any chance can you send a picture of your drain bolt, so i can see if i tightened my enough. It appears during your first drain you didn't tighten it as much as you did the second time. Thanks so much man

[@jorgecalderon5631]

You need to apply Motorcraft Pink gasket maker

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

Sorry, it was a car I serviced, and I don't know if it will ever be back in my shop, so I can't provide a photo. What I would say is if it is not loose or leaking fluid, you are good. You can also put Teflon tape on the plug, but I don't usually do that, and I have never had a problem. Thanks for watching!

[@joel4210]

It only needs 9ft/lbs of torque. Get yourself a torque wrench and add a little bit of white Permatex high temp thread sealant.

[@davepond2404]

This would be the same for a 2013 XLT as well, I'd assume, as it's the same edition?

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

Yes it should be and thanks for watching.

[@piterariz]

Doesn't it have a transmission filter like some cars?

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

It does but to access it you have to split the case. Splitting the case requires removing the transmission from the car so basically to get max life from that transmission you should change the fluid regularly to keep the filter from clogging. Thanks for watching!

[@Thedjcodeman]

doing this today. thanks

[@bjackson1975]

Thanks for posting!

[@2InfinityRKX]

Does this have a filter and gasket that needs to be replaced?

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

Nope, the case has to be split to change the filter, which would require the transmission to be removed from the vehicle. This is a drain/fill transmission when servicing in the vehicle. Thanks for watching!

[@JohanEssenceExplorer]

Hi, so you did the procedure twice or 3 times? Thanks for the info and video btw.

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

I would recommend doing the procedure twice unless the fluid is really dirty then a third time may be warranted. Thanks for watching!

[@javierdavila1569]

I have the 2016 sport with v6 tt, is this the same trans?

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

Yes, to the best of my knowledge it is the same transmission. Thanks for watching!

[@lucianomedina4568]

Question, I just changed it how many quarts does it take on a 2013 ford explorer

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

What engine is in it? The six cylinders Explorers take 6 quarts.

[@luisvillagra5909]

Hi from Chile, good video. What about the filter inside the transmision? When we have to change. How often we have to change the oil? It is the same in the 3,5 limited ford explorer? Best regards!!!

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

Great questions, and thanks for watching from Chile! With this particular transmission, the only way to access the filter is to split the case. That requires it to be removed from the car. It is not something that gets replaced until a rebuild is needed. As for how often, Ford specifies two maintenance schedules: "Normal use" and "Special use" for "Normal use," the change interval is 150,000 miles, and the "Special use" change interval is 30,000. Most vehicles will fall into the "Normal use" category. The following is my opinion, based on my experience. The Explorer in the video was used for occasional towing, and for that reason, it was advisable to change it at 75,000 or half the mileage. When people seek my recommendation, I advise doing it before 100,000 miles, ideally every 60,000. The 3.5L Limited should have the same transmission.

[@jonathoncopeland7492]

Have the 2.3 ecoboost in my wife explorer and I don't see a transmission cap at all.

[@manzilmurad4590]

HI IS THERE ANY FILTER TO CHANGE ALSO???

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

No, you have the split the transmission case to access the filter. To do that, you have to remove it from the car, so at that point, you would likely be better off rebuilding it. Thanks for watching!

[@alphatwo5183]

How did you check the fluid?

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

There is a drip stick attached to the cap you remove to add fluid. Warm up the car a then check the level. Thanks for watching!

[@jeffg5576]

Very confusing on other video with the same vehicle. The expert tells you that the car has to have engine running. I tested it for myself when the engine is running the fluid goes way up when it’s off goes back down. So why the author of these videos is not explain that in detail.

[@TheJustina102085]

I appreciate the video. Transmission fluid is something I never address myself on my previous cars since their maintence schedule recommends so many miles before a change. Personally i think 150k miles before a change is crazy! My current 2015 Limited is at 130k miles. I’ve decided to keep this car for a while so I had transmission fluid changed at 85k miles. Do you suggest I change it again or just allow it to go the next few years without a change. I’ll prob get rid of it at 160k miles.

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

If it were my car, I would have it done again in 30-40k. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@luismviera7982]

does not have transmission oil filter .how many quarts.if have transmission oil filter please send me the part number thanks .although I think the oil used is Dexron vi ATF

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

It does have a filter but you have to split the transmission case to access it. Splitting the case requires the transmission to be removed from the car at that point it is only worth doing when the transmission needs a rebuild. I only recommend using Mercon LV (The Ford stuff). You should have 12 quarts on hand. Thanks for watching!

[@mankhalasiri5880]

Thankyou for video

[@ظهورقائمآلمحمدالصيحةالعلميةبال]

انا اتابعك من العراق معي فورد اكسبلورر 13على السرعه الخامله واثناء السير وعند الغيار الثالث للقير السياره تعتعت اتصير بيه نعته من سرعه 40 الى 80 كيلو متر عندها تستقر ماذا يكون السبب ارجوك

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

Translation via Google: "I am following you from Iraq with me a Ford Explorer 13 at idle speed and while driving and at the third gear shift, the car stuttered and it started to slow down from 40 to 80 km, then it will stabilize. What is the reason please." It could be several things, but the first place to start is checking the transmission fluid level. Improper fluid levels can cause shifting problems. If the level is correct, changing the fluid may also help. If those two things do not address the problem, a more serious problem exists, and it will require a more complicated diagnostic process to know what needs to be fixed. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@hongs8867]

Been using Amsoil in ford trans for years absolutely zero issues Runs cooler shifts smoother runs many more miles that oem

[@spencersmith4174]

Did my 2019 at 65k and just drained once. 140 fluids added and now the transmission down shifts more smoothly.

[@pedrodperete]

You added too much oil

[@andrewshah10]

@@pedrodperetehow much?

[@justins8768]

Great video !

[@haydngarrett5535]

I was told by my Ford Dealer to change the Transmission oil at FORD RECOMMENDED 60,000 miles and its $1200. I think my 50,000 mile (all highway miles) 2017 Explorer qualifies for your 100,000 deal. Do you agree? ...and then I will change it myself! Thank you for the very informative video

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

100,000 interval is really only for the most ideal of circumstances. The climate where you live and how you drive are also factors. I would say before 80k is about right unless you live in Santa Barbara and never floor it. :-) Thanks for watching!

[@satzawesome]

I was looking at this video as a refresher. i did mine [Only drain and fill so 6 quarts] for the 1st time at 140k and now i am at 196k so doing it. I towed a 2500 popup and a big 4000 lb popup with mine for a few years. I also do not have tow package. the tranmission never got warm once i put it 5th with the manual shift knob cutting the overdrive. You should be good.

[@javierdavila1569]

$1200 is way too much, went to my local ford and they did it for $435, and my explorer is 95000 miles now.

[@juliabaida5432]

So if you have a lot of miles basically the oil is always black so every 30000 miles you got to change it

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

First, thank you for watching and asking a question! No, the color is not a good indicator of fluid life. Mercon LV can start turning gray at 15,000 miles. I would go by mileage. Ford specifies two maintenance schedules: "Normal use" and "Special use" for "Normal use," the change interval is 150,000 miles, and the "Special use" change interval is 30,000. Most vehicles will fall into the "Normal use" category. The following is my opinion, based on my experience. The Explorer in the video was used for occasional towing, and for that reason, it was advisable to change it at 75,000 or half the mileage. When people seek my recommendation, I advise doing it before 100,000 miles.

[@nunya2814]

@@andysgarageadventures8043 do not take fords word as gold, they are in the buisness of selling cars, recommending 150k reg service on any trans is a good way to make sure it will fail, ive worked a good portion of my career at dealerships and most drain and fill transmissions would last alot longer with 30k service intervals, thats what honda usually recommends on their drain n fills, if its got a filter you can change and a pan you can drop, 50k under normal conditions. No fuild on planet earth will last 150k in even the easiest of driving conditions, but youve got the right idea about draining and filling mulitple times to clean it up and replace all fluid, after this id just maintain it every 30k with just a single drain and fill.

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

@@nunya2814 yes, on maintenance it is about finding the right balance. If you plan on going up to 300k miles I would highly recommend 30k on the transmission, diffs etc... and oil changes every 3-4k. If you are not planning on going past 150k then 50k should be fine. Your suggestion of 30k single drain is a great way to approach that as well. It cuts the cost in half and should freshen up the fluids sooner. The service department will always recommend smaller intervals as it is the safest but may not work out as well for your pocketbook based on your goals. Thanks for watching and for the thoughtful comments!

[@joecruz196]

What years????

[@elchololo2418]

How you check the fluid level brother?

[@derekboudreau9697]

The dipstick that is connected to the cap that he showed in the beginning under the air filter

[@overpoweredrc27]

It is really hard to see on these cars.

[@comodice905]

Any crush washer

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

There is no crush washer. Thanks for watching!

[@comodice905]

@@andysgarageadventures8043 janmein....pops...gratsey

[@edgarholguin775]

So you want to drain and fill more than once? And if so, why? Thanks!

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

Yes, that is correct. It is not possible to get all the fluid out of the transmission and torque converter. You ensure the most amount of fluid is replaced by changing it twice. Thanks for watching!

[@leroy3563]

Good job

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

Thanks for watching!

[@ananthithiyagu3236]

Thanks

[@franklosh2110]

You said you did it 3 times but 12 quarts isn't enough to do it 3 times.

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

I had extra bottles, they were not in a box so I didn’t show them. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@robertallen7280]

You said you drained 143 to 144 ounces but when you were putting it in you said 113 ounce. I think your a little off on what you put back in. At least 30 to 31 ounces.

[@rhurtadorh32]

You cant over fill it it only takes 5 quarts to refill.

[@BabyRhino984]

Yea 5 quarts exactly came out of mine so I just threw 5 back in, very easy process.

[@SMFLEIS]

What about the filter

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

With this particular transmission, the only way to access the filter is to split the case. That requires it to be removed from the car. It is not something that gets replaced until a rebuild is needed. Thanks for the question!

[@SMFLEIS]

Do you think it’s a good idea to flush the transmission or just drain it

[@ivantheamazing1188]

Smfle don’t flush always change it.

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

@@SMFLEIS Just drain and refill it. I do not recommend flushing it.

[@josuesolis326]

Where can i buy the flyid??

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

Rockauto, O'Rileys (They can order it), or a Ford dealer parts department. Thanks for watching!

[@univac7677]

I bought some at AutoZone.

[@UCTrumpet]

At 8:16 you reference “doing that same procedure 3 times” and now I am confused! Do you drain, measure and replace twice or three times? Thanks!!

[@TheFS2004guru]

I bought mine on Amazon. 5qt bottle

[@jfdesignsinc.innovationsid1583]

I think your way too overzealous and almost scared of this piece of equipment... there is definitely a plus or minus of at least a quart on the oil amount... transmissions are designed to take some horrible abuse and neglect... goin with a synthetic or stabilizer or a different brand of oil is not a sin by no means...., The vast majority of vehicles go their entire lives with one or no fluid change on the tranny...

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

Good points, thanks for watching!

[@derekrowe6890]

Ignore this guy. Just get the mercon shit everyone. Always has to be that one guy. Knows everything it watching a how to video

[@keithcrews7193]

Please make volume louder

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

Thanks for the feedback. I will work to improve that in future videos.

[@AntonioAlves-vo9vt]

Oh ya

[@guesswhomartin9249]

Some things you say are ok, while other parts, I would not use your ideas.

[@Gregngo]

Glooves 2:23

[@jonnygarland4741]

I AM REAL ASE certified Master Auto Mechanic with ABOUT 60 years experience i REALLY WILL give you good advice NEVER be a auto mechanic learning NEVER STOPED ALWAYS a REAL dead end for any auto mechanic all Auto mobiles change way too much EVERY Year always a real dead ead for any auto mechanic no real future

[@andysgarageadventures8043]

I was profoundly impacted by this post, and I do understand the struggle and feelings which motivated it. I hesitated to respond to this, but I decided to in the hopes of maybe offering some optimism. The industry badly needs technicians with the wealth of experience you have. There is still a large need for individuals who can adjust a carburetor, set timing, and find a vacuum leak on cars before OBD2. Any restoration shop would be lucky to have you! As I look into the future electric cars may disrupt some parts of the industry, but things like heavy equipment, powersports, small engine, and heavy diesel are going to be around for a long time, making an opportunity for talented people who want to get their hands dirty. Technicians deserve much more appreciation for their talents and the hard work that keeps most people on the road. :-) I wish you all the best, and thanks for watching!

[@carloscamarena4923]

great response, I am late to your video very helpful by the way, I am a printing press operator and there is similar feeling about my trade but you are 100% correct, there’s still plenty of experience needed in craftsmanship trades, very few youngsters are interested in these kind of trades.

[@GottaLoveAudrey]

Transmissions take more than 10 quarts, do some research on how much quarts your vehicle needs.

[@bennieboy2014]

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