Step by Step Transmission Fluid Drain and Fill: HOW TO ESCAPE

[@TechnicalMuzic]

Finally someone on KZbin that is straight to the point, knowable, and excellent with the instructions. You’ve helped a lot of people by making this. Appreciate ya.

[@NguyenNguyen-dm2ux]

Best video out there on that Ford Escape series

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Thank you! Really appreciate that- I noticed there was some helpful stuff from others in pockets but thought perhaps we could join all the info together... i had some help and input from drivers from Fordescape.org and a few others. Thanks for the affirmation!

[@tylerbeach4727]

Really appreciate this series. Myself and the wife have a 2018 Escape Se with the 1.5 eco boost and it’s been an absolutely outstanding vehicle. I do all maintenance and repairs on it. Ptu and trans dump and fill at least once a year, and oil changes every 3,000 miles. It’s got 130,000 miles on it and it’s been so good to us. Only time it ever gave us issues is when a rear abs sensor went out, the car went into limp mode but got us home. When I met her she had a 2017 Hyundai Tucson that was burning a shit ton of oil with under 70,000 miles, I said oh no, we are getting you a ford. I won’t have anything else.

[@tylerhair9067]

Just did mine at 116k. Thanks for the video. Trans is shifting smoothrr now. I plan to do this again in a couple weeks to get more of the dirty fluid out.

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Nice! Glad it's nice and smooth after doing the drain and fill! That's always a great feeling haha. Do you plan on going until you only see the newish red or are you just going to get it less brown?

[@tylerhair9067]

I plan to to another drain and fill in a couple weeks but will probably leave it at that.

[@Nootnoot433]

@@tylerhair9067how is it now?

[@Mnsty.r6]

For anybody with a 15-16 1.6 or 2.0 escape, level bolt is a 3/8 inch Allen key on the right side of cv axle and a 10 inch extension works perfectly.

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Thanks for sharing the tip, @riomcneill3918!

[@blakehintz3207]

Words cannot express.... Thank you

[@GillGuidesU]

In my case, it was screwed very tight & I was not able to unplug it out

[@MrSummerbreeze01]

Its 10mm

[@daleogle3620]

Best Video that I have seen on draining, filling, and checking transmission fluid level for 2014 Escape with 1.6L engine. Thanks!

[@jasonkytle7070]

Well done!!! I’ve watched almost all the Ford Escape transmission videos on KZbin. You are the only person to mention whether the motor is running or not when you check the fluid level. Thanks. ( I think) 😅😅😅

[@sebastienmartel9059]

Thanks!

[@illustrassy8515]

Outstanding! I’m feeling empowered to do this myself this weekend on my 2014 Escape! Thank you 👍🏽👍🏽

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Thats so good!!! Yeah!!! Just go slow and steady :) its not a bad one :) thank you so much for the comment 😀

[@globalcommerce7654]

Excellent and very professional, I sell hundreds of these cars and give you A+ rating on quality of service, I'm sure you're doing a better job than dealer!

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Thanks so much! Hah I appreciate that!

[@cm1133]

@4:45, thanks for mentioning how you were pouring the fluid. So few people know that fluid bottles are designed to be poured that way.

[@SpenceStan888]

Perfect info, especially after I opened the wrong 'over fill' plug on the 1.6L Escape and let out too much fluid. found this video and the 10mm Hex was exactly what I needed.

[@gar8177]

I'll be changing my Transmission Fluid in the next 2 weeks. Looking forward to reviewing this video again

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Awesome! Its really like a regular oil change but with the level check at the end. Be careful with the threads on the level plug and go slow and easy and you should be golden. Good luck!

[@rhurtadorh32]

For everyone, you would have to do this process 3 times in order for the trsnsmission to have atleast 90% of clean oil. By doing once all your going to do is dirty the new oil if you do it 3 times old and new will get mixed up and drain and and you will see a nice and red color of transmission oil.

[@pewpew9040]

Engine oil never drains 100 % when you change. Keep routine drains some and fills new 🎉

[@rhurtadorh32]

@@pewpew9040 yes but we do more engine oil changes than transmission fluid changes.

[@CreatingExcellence]

3x every 30,000 miles or like I do, one drain and fill every 10,000 miles

[@elmexicanodelnorte5333]

Right, I believe it takes around 9 courts, so that makes sense, thanks

[@darrenmcnew]

What an amazing video. Will make this weekends work much quicker! Thank man!!!

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Hope it went well! Give a shout if anything came up or if more details are needed!

[@dennisgoe3537]

In Escape also manually shift with the paddles on the steering wheel. Right side in lower D position. Drive gently for at least 5 Miles total. Back up a few times in Reverse as well. Maybe 30 feet as well as changing the shifts while stopped several times.

[@FlamonvilleSaturne]

I am haitian so i'm see the video all day because you worck nice for me

[@cm1133]

I have a 2017 Ford Escape SE with a 1.5L turbo engine. I found that using a Pittsburgh 10mm hex extended wobble key (bought a set at Harbor Freight) was the best tool to remove the 10mm hex head check bolt (when I chose to use the removal of front left tire option).

[@CreatingExcellence]

Just drain and add 4-1/4 quarts. I’ve done the leveling procedure one time out of 12 drain and fills. The drain and fill procedure takes 10 minutes if you skip the leveling procedure. Most of the 10 minute is the fluid draining

[@whaler3232]

Good call - I am just going to measure what came out and put back the same amount of new stuff.

[@MrChasalopolis]

Thank you, I am on my second motor (known problem and class action lawsuit) my air conditioner quit (probably the condenser valve or switch) and now my transmission may or may not get me to work tomorrow! I'm DONE with Ford...except maybe with my F250 rust bucket!

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Yeah these vehicles are pretty troublesome sometimes. Sorry you're having to go through all that- I hope its an easy troubleshoot with that AC

[@petergriffin383]

I just bought a 2018 escape titanium with 56k miles, I have a few questions. What is the risk level to something bad happening to my trans after the drain and fill? I ask because somebody said they did a drain and fill on their escape with 50k miles on it, and after it started shifting really hard. How necessary is a drain and fill? If it's never been done in the past, does waiting until 56k miles increase the risk factor of some unforseen problems happening? I had a 2013 explorer that had 210,000 miles on it without ever having changed the trans fluid... so I'm curious about the necessity of do so. I just really want to try and take care of my car, any feedback would be appreciated, thank you.

[@Trekopolis]

I know this is an older video, but if you see this can you maybe answer this? :) Can I drain and fill the trans fluid without dealing with the overflow bolt? Meaning, do you know the exact amount to fill using the vent (top) access which gets very close to the amount needed? This would save a lot of time and hassle just filling with the appropriate amount you know? Thanks for any insight on this.

[@BouncinBrandon]

Sorry, but the overflow tube is how you determine whether or not it's full, it's not a step you can simply skip

[@sportsprincess5988]

Thank you so much. I already got the stuff to do this myself. As a female I feel empowered to do this cause I know the stereotype is that women don’t know know what they are doing but so false. I know you have to have special tools, and the correct type of fluid for the your vehicle type. As long as directions are followed and you have the right stuff I think anyone male or female can do this. Awesome!!

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Amen!!! Just takes some time and a plan and the right stuff! Give a shout if you have any questions- good luck and thanks for taking the time to say something!

[@chrisweaver9391]

Of the Vids out there this is the best. Dragging home DILs car today off the highway to check it out. She has nothing so I hope she is just low and tranny is not toast.

[@theeolives]

Thank you for this video. Just 1 question.. you mentioned 5 qts..will it harm the transmission if you "overfill it" with the 5 qts before draining it through the level bolt?? Thank you again.

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

@@theeolives no- thats the goal of the leveling hole- it drains the excess once its up to temp so that you know the exact amount that it needs is left over. It shouldn't be an issue driving with it for the few mins to get it up to temperature prior to leveling as long as its not whole extra quarts or anything.... Good question

[@MrSummerbreeze01]

Thank you for mentioning where the level plug is on the 2.5l engines -10mm hex head to the right of the CV axle joint. The Haynes repair manual has a picture 25.11on page 1-28 that mis identifies the plug which will lead to serious overfilling.

[@johngraham4965]

thanks,I see where I screwed up when I changed my oil this summer?

[@Pssnmeoff]

Great video! Has anyone done a timing belt change themselves yet?

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Oof. Thats a tough one. I had to pay for mine to be serviced due to a ~$500 proprietary Ford tool to access the belt. My trusted mom and pop shop said you have to pull the whole front quarter off to get to that part of the engine. Ended up having the dealer do it but it cost a pretty penny in labor... ~$1300 in labor hours alone.. While they were in there I had them do the water pump too. Didn't have the guts to do that much teardown myself for such an infrequent but critical maintenance item.

[@jammy46235]

Wow thank buddy I was wondering what’s the best way to level off the vehicle thanks 👍

[@joan8774]

Amazing step by step video!... keep up the good work!,

[@plas6588]

Great tutorial Rahrena, thanks for the information. Keep up the terrific content.

[@TheCoryespo]

Do I need to get all four wheels off the ground for the jack stand leveling? Or just jack stand the front two even? Thanks so much!

[@TIMBHMAXX22]

just found this video and had a question, on fords with high mileage is it true you should not drain and refill the transmission fluid for various reasons? like, too many miles on it, and draining and refilling fluid will cause transmission damage or some other problems? and if you feel you must do this to have it done at the ford Dealer? thanks

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Hey there and good question- from what I have always understood from the community mostly is almost the other way around. Sometimes a dealer will offer to do a fluid FLUSH which can stir up a lot of settled debris in low places in your transmission. Since it is a "lifetime filter " inside the housing, it can't be changed so there will naturally be bits at the bottom that have accumulated. You can do it if you'd like, but the majority of sources and drivers prefer the drain and fill, even if you only get around half the fluid out with one procedure. It is much more gentle and keeps junk from getting thrown back into the fray. Some people try really hard to get clear red clean fluid when checking the fluid condition, but this takes numerous times and the fluid can get expensive quick. If you do the drain and fill every 30k mi, the influx of new fluid helping the residual retained fluid will make a difference. Please let me know if you have any other questions and thanks!

[@leonagould1119]

What's correct trans temp to check fluid level

[@junito3112]

My is a 2014 ford escape now has 49000 miles havent change the transmission fluid yet,you said every 30000 so in that case can i do the change or is different the procedure because of the extra miles?

[@deanclarke1972]

I have a 2014 after driving the car for about 20 minutes it started revving and acted like it was in neutral, Mr. Transmission is saying $3k+ to fix, any thoughts?

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Hey there Dean- was this after a fluid change, or just in general 20mins of driving? Also, it depends on the "fix" really. Less than $4k for a transmission job on our Escapes is usually a pretty good deal. If it looses connection to the wheels and feels like it's in Neutral like you're saying, it's not a good sign unfortunately. For what it's worth, I paid ~$5K for a remanufactured transmission with updated internals and warranty on the transmission and labor. Just a datapoint for you on cost and what you could get. It's never fun to consider $3K for anything, but in regards to transmissions, it's not a bad price. Looking forward to hearing back. Thanks!

[@deanclarke1972]

Ya I think I'm going to pass on fixing it, 10 years old and 278k's not worth it.

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

yeah it's a hard sell really. I think the main reason we kept ours is that at the time, vehicle prices were still a bit worse than they are now, and we still use it for this channel so much. Good luck with your process sir.

[@LacDuFlambeauNatives]

This channel is fucking awesome dude I’ve had my 2013 for a very long time now thanks to you🎉

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

What a great thing to read on a down day haha. I appreciate your encouragement and glad it's been useful for you! How many miles are on your '13???

[@Smalltownthings]

I have a question will putting 4.5 quarts in after draining it be ok? Or do I have to do 5 quarts I’m just afraid of overfilling it while I drive to warm it up hope you see this I’m nervous about changing this myself!

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

@@Smalltownthings if you've drained it and added too much its no big deal as long as you check it at the leveling hole when it's warmed up. The leveling hole will allow any extra amount of fluid above that height to exit, leaving you with the ideal amount. Hope this helps!

[@Smalltownthings]

@@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews can I let it idle or do I have to drive it to warm it up after I fill it and before I check the level? Thank you so much for the replies!

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

@@Smalltownthings its been a while since posting this video but in case I didn't include the details, you should drive it until it warms up and then get it back on Jack stands when its warm and check the level plug in the drivers side wheel well. It's OK to drain the oil from the bottom with just jack stands in the front of the vehicle and the back angled down, but when you check the level plug for fluid height when warmed up, it's important to have the car level and raised up on 4 jack stands

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

@@Smalltownthings just to clarify, if you're in idle, your engine is running but not engaging the transmission gear system. Even if your engine is up to temp, the engine oil may be warm but the transmission oil won't be. That's why it requires you to drive for a few mins to get the transmission gearbox warmed up and the fluid in there to expand to its operating temperature...thats when you drain the excess out the leveling hole in the wheel well. Does that make sense?

[@Smalltownthings]

@@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews thank you that answers all my questions I’ll let you know how it goes tomorrow!

[@BenefitExploits]

On my 2019 escape I have a front end trans fluid cooler. I ended up hitting a deer and my grille punctured the trans cooler and I saw my fluid was not in good condition. I wonder if I can just have a 2 bucket method to flush out the fluid 🤔. There are top and botton lines going to the trans cooler, what if I detach the upper line which is the fill line for the cooler and attach a hose going to a bucket, and attach another hose on the lower line which is the return line back into the tranny and have that hose end in a bucket with fresh fluid... run the engine and keep the car in gear and have it suck up the new fluid while draining the old stuff and when the fluid starts coming out looking fresh shut it off and reconnect the lines, and then check the fluid level. This is only if I knew my tranny had the correct amount of fluid to begin with, when the cooler got punctured it did loose a little bit of fluid.

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

wow- that's certainly a plausible approach logically although not orthodox haha. I know you stated your assumption of the trans having the correct amount to start with, but I do think you could always just check your level plug afterwards and add more or less to hit that amount?

[@LabyugTv]

Hi Is this applicable to a Ford Kuga 2013, Ecoboost, AWD Petrol Engine? Hoping your kind response cheers

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Hi there! I have heard of some Kugas having different gearboxes than the north American Escapes but after some research it does appear that at Kugas from 2013-2016 do have the same 6F35 6 speed transmission so it should be a similar process if thats yours!

[@LabyugTv]

@@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviewsMany thanks Man, my Kuga, not totally smooth when it change gear 1 to 4th I can fill the cars shake,will that be need fluid replacement or a gearbox maintanance?

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

@@LabyugTv for sure try just the fluids first. It can make all the difference. Try to replicate the drain and fill process here. Sometimes with older transmissions a "fluid flush " can cause more harm than good. If the shifting doesn't smooth out after at least 1 to 3 drain and fills, consider getting it looked at by a transmission shop

[@LabyugTv]

@@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews thanks a lot hope this can solve cheers

[@LabyugTv]

Hi, thank you,after I changed transmission fluid there's a big difference my carschanging gears smooth now. Thanks a lot Anyway do you have video on changing oxygen sensor that applicable on my Kuga?

[@geovannivillarrealgarzon8094]

Hello, I have a Escape 2016 ecoboost 2.0, the owner's manual says that 9qt is required for the change, but in the video they only use 5qt, what is the reason?

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Good question! The total capacity is 9qt but you can only drain half of that when you do a drain and fill. Its part of why its recommended to do it every 30k mi since you aren't changing 100% of the fluid. You could keep changing it over and over to get mostly new fluid but that can get pricey and time consuming. A lot of Escape drivers do the drain and fill every 30k miles and have no issues compared to waiting longer per the factory spec. Please let me know if this is clear or if you have any more questions!

[@dennisgoe3537]

Use any thick gallon container to see how much came out. If it is just over four quarts two quarts first then add Lucas Transmission stop leaks and lubricant that you purchase at any Auto parts store or Walmart. After mixing it good with the regular Transmission fluid so it goes through the funnel quicker the Lucas additive works and is very thick. But not for use in CVT Transmissions like Nissan and Mitsubishi.

[@DIYCarRepairs]

Its drain and refill plugs are same as the Ford Ecosport 2016 automatic cars ?

[@michaellesaganich2316]

Thank you very helpful saving me money.

[@adamhonda98]

The hole to check level while the vehicle is warmed up is dumping fluid does that mean I need to let the fluid dump out till nothing comes out?

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Yes- with the engine warmed up like you have, with the vehicle in park, and the engine idling, it should diminish to a trickle before putting the plug back in. I understand its a bit alarming but the level check needs to be when the engine is running so that the fluid pumps are working. Let me know if you have any questions after this one

[@dennisgoe3537]

Castrol Synthetic Edge is also the best oil on the market for your engine including motorcycle engine's it is the only one that sticks to the metal from a opposite charge and prevents engine wear. Both are sold in 4 Gallon containers to save money.

[@johnkramps8305]

Where do you buy the aftermarket splash shield? Mine is soaked from an oil leak i fixed but... man the shield is heavy now.

[@Firebert79TA]

Is your transmission still working ok 2 years later?

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Hey there Firebert- funny you should ask. We actually just had the transmission replaced a month ago. Despite trying to head off the shortcomings of this 6F35 transmission with the 30kmi interval drain and fills and never really towing anything or driving nuts, it still failed on us. We just put a remanufactured transmission into it because it was less than a dealer by 2K and came with a 3 year warranty on parts and labor. It's painful, but we're back on the road with it. How about you? Have you had any issues with yours?

[@Firebert79TA]

​@@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews 2013 escape w/1.6 at 93,000 miles - was trying to decide if i should change the fluid or if the transmission might already be worn enough to need the dirt and grit to keep making friction to transmit power.

[@joenottoast]

If i'm feeling lazy, can i use the siphon method via the vent cap hole to remove the old fluid and then just add the same volume back in?

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Good question- maybe??? I know that when the transmission is circulating fluid and up to temp, the fluid level rises so it may be hard to go by but I don't think you could hurt anything by trying so long as everything is off when you siphon of course. And you may not get as much out as you would with a lower drain plug but I don't know- if you do go that route, give a shout back if you have a minute and let me know how it goes.

[@300404fulserr]

Well explained!

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Thank you! Hope it can be helpful and if you have any questions please feel free to reach out!

[@hazelferguson9908]

Do you need the underbody shield? Seems to me its only function is to prevent fluids from dripping on pavement.

[@robj2362]

It has an airflow channel that is suppose to direct air back to the PTU if I'm not mistaken.

[@davidwilliams2508]

I'd have to agree. The channel directs air at the trans for cooling. I almost cut a hole in it to facilitate oil changes, but decided not to when I saw the channel. 😞

[@kevinolmos80]

I believe the splash Shield is an important part of the vehicle. It is designed to redirect airflow across the back of the transmission and up across the turbocharger which gets very hot. Without the airflow I believe the turbocharger would fail sooner than later.

[@Patricksadie67]

Did you ever get your How to escape app up and going?

[@dexterfortozo192]

Do you need to change the transmission oil filter if you change the fluid?

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Hey Dexter- normally yes. However, these Escapes have a "lifetime filter" meaning the filter is permanent. Thats why people say to drain and fill every 30k mi instead of 60k mi. It is easier on the whole system.

[@agonizingeko170]

When leveling the fluid, are the jack stands on all 4 points of the car or just 2 in front to keep it up?

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

I always thought the vehicle needed be as level as possible when leveling the fluid. If you tip it back, it will change the fluid height in the transmission. Just make sure it's up to temp for it to get to the right viscosity and expanded volume and the car is level when you're checking the fluid level. I know it can be a bit of a pain to keep going back and forth with jack stands. Hope this helps and sorry for the delay in response here :)

[@agonizingeko170]

Thank you so much. I appreciate the help 😊

[@justlg3359]

Bro can you do for 2nd gen escape especially the 2012 ford escape 2.5l automatic FWD trans fluid drain and fill? How much does it take?

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Hey there- thanks for asking, but unfortunately, no I can't demo a 2012 because this 2013 vehicle is all that I have to work with at the moment. I believe we may bump up to the 2017 body style in the near future, but I'm not sure we'd go back to an earlier style like your 2012. I'm sorry! I wish I could help you more!

[@justlg3359]

@@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews by the way do you know by change how much fluid do you need to add to the 2nd Gen escapes I think the trans is 6F35. Thanks

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

@@justlg3359 are you talking full capacity or just what you'd expect with a drain and fill where a portion doesn't drain out?

[@justlg3359]

@@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews what is drained out? And what should be added in? From what fordmakuloco YT says, he said it's about 4.5-5 Quarts but in another video he says above 5 Quarts so I don't know what to believe really, I could use your help here

[@adribouss]

​@@justlg3359It's around 4.5 quarts. I've done it on my 2.5L 2012 Escape two days ago.

[@ygbodybuilder3023]

Does the dealer do this. I thought a drain and refill was only letting out some of the fluid not all. and adding in some new

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Hey there! Yes the dealer can do this if you ask them to. You're correct- the amount that drains out is only ~half of your transmission capacity. Some people continue the process until they see mostly clear new red fluid. Others do it once to 3 times just to make sure there is new fluid being introduced and that you're draining out any debris that settles on the bottom near the plug. Let me know if this helps or if you have any other questions- thanks for posting your comment/ questions :)

[@ygbodybuilder3023]

@@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews well I had a new cv axel put on and the guy said some transmission fluid came out with it,bout a quart. But I have been checking my fluid levels the last week and every time it's giving me a good reading. Do you think I should still ass transmission fluid

[@ygbodybuilder3023]

Let's say I had only ,4qts when drained instead of the requirement of 5. Will the dealer add 5qts when doing the fill

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Good question- so you're wondering if they'll do the level check vs just add what comes out? If so, I'm not sure- I would HOPE so and I'm sure they'd love to charge for the extra time to check the level plug :P However, the best way to know is if you ask them to do so or ask if it's standard procedure for them at THAT dealer. The service manual for Ford says to check the fluid level at the port, so I would think they can certainly do it.

[@MikesVlogss]

Where's the crush washer on that 7/16" drain plug???

[@richardbarkley9909]

Do we know for sure what year they eliminated the plastic filler cap thats accessed from the driver's side of the engine compartment?

[@greggraham1605]

I can't find mine 2018... so you have to wonder where they put it... Possibly a proprietary tool requirement to AVOID WEEKEND warriors actually fixing their problems themselves.

[@richardbarkley9909]

@@greggraham1605 I think by '18 they eliminated that plastic filler cap and just have a plug in the side of the case higher than the drain plug.

[@Clovenlife]

anyone know the part number for that filler cap? Mine has disappeared

[@theeolives]

THANK YOU! Great easy video!!

[@ianmackenzie686]

Is 59K miles on an '08 with the v6 and without any issues too late for a transmission drain & refill?

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Never too late! Every bit helps!

[@krzysztofojrzanowski173]

Bardzo dobra robota... 💪

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Thank you very much for the encouragement and for checking out the channel!

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Dziękuję za Twoje wsparcie :)

[@GreatGrandmasterWang]

How about just simply measuring the old fluid that came out and putting the same amount of new fluid in?

[@icecold1011]

That is the way a lot of people do it, but I just don't trust the last person that did it.

[@janzizka7978]

Never time to do it right but always time to do it twice

[@Mnsty.r6]

Fluid is a different volume warm vs cold, safest to level it off by removing level bot while vehicle is hot and running

[@kevinolmos80]

By just replacing the exact same amount of trans fluid you remove, you would not know if your fluid was low to begin with. It is best to remove the level plug after the vehicle has warmed up to make sure that you are at the proper fill level. I know it is more work but it is definitely better to do it this way.

[@GreatGrandmasterWang]

@@kevinolmos80 that's true if you bought a used car that had its transmission serviced before. If you bought the car new, then you can measure the fluid that's coming out and put the same amount in since its level was correct from the factory

[@stevevet3652]

Excellent video. Well done. Would you happen to have any videos on how to check/repair the A/C system a 2015 Escape?

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Hi Steve, I dont have any videos up currently but what are your symptoms? Year and trim level of escape as well please? Hopefully we can help

[@stevevet3652]

My daughters car is a 2015 Ford Escape with a 1.6L turbo SE two wheel drive. The A/C was working then slowly began to die. I checked the fuses and they were okay. The belt is good. I had my daughter turn on the A/C while I watched the compressor. Nothing moved. I checked for signs of any leaks didn't see any but both pressure hoses are really nicely tucked away and difficult to follow from point "A" to "B". If you have any ideas, I would love to hear them. Thanks again.@@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

@@stevevet3652 Understood sir- the one thing that I've heard our escapes have issues with sometimes is an evap sensor that can tend to freeze over and it sends a false signal to shut the AC off prematurely- I'm not sure if that's what your vehicle is experiencing, but there's a pretty good video from FordTechMakuloco here on the topic- could be something to try and eliminate a variable? kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWGohaKQn9KHhZo Hope it helps! Good luck!

[@kevinolmos80]

I had the exact same problem with my 2016 Ford Escape 1.6 Turbo. I took it to a local shop and they said they could not find anything wrong with it and they refilled it with refrigerant that contained dye. Two weeks later the AC system was not working again. So I took it to the dealer because they are the experts with these vehicles. They found the issue which was a bad hose and o-ring. They replaced them, tested the system, and then recharge the system with refrigerant. It now works fine. The complete cost was just under $600 which I understand to be reasonable for this type of repair. I hope this helps.

[@sjulier]

Superb video.

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Thanks a lot Sam! Hope it was helpful- please give a shout if there's anything else we can help with- hopefully we can!

[@sjulier]

@@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews Do you have PTO and differential fluid change videos? How about a video tapping a drain plug into the bottom of the differential? Thanks!

[@dennisgoe3537]

Pan can come off to clean the metal mesh filter.

[@EyoSystems-nf4pp]

I had a leak and my mechanic top up the fluid with different fluid and now my car find its difficult to shift and it moves slowly or no move at all on hill. Is there anything I can do?

[@adribouss]

Change to recommended fluid before you ruin your transmission.

[@Phil-1969]

Hi good afternoon A very interesting video as I’m over here in the uk my ford Kuga has a totally different gearbox than you have in US . I have the powershift gearbox and have just done a oil change on mine and I have 2 drain plugs and a totally different procedure

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Hi Phil! Wow, 2 drain plugs? What about your gearbox requires 2? Separate chambers? Is it all still the same type of fluid? Do your kugas in the UK still use MERCON LV? What else is different about the procedure on your end? That IS very interesting.. how many speeds are in your transmission? Our Escapes typically have 6.

[@Phil-1969]

How To Escape: DIY, Tips, and Reviews Hello again I got the oil direct from ford it takes 6 litres and also has a disposable filter that is in its own plastic surround that you unscrew from the side of the gearbox. Yes it has 2 chambers that when you refill the gearbox one flows from one to the other . It cost me £160 for the oil and filter, so not sure how much that is in the US , mine has a 2.0 Litre Diesel engine that is a Euro 6 engine made in partnership with citron Peugeot and ford , it’s a 6 speed automatic gearbox, and is a 2015 model , my model is a ford Kuga AWD titanium X sport in deep impact blue with 180 bhp

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

@@Phil-1969 Thank you for the response and the detail- ok! So that is extremely different then- we don't even have access to our transmission fluid filters over here- they're considere "lifetime" which makes every one of us a littler nervous haha... We also don't have the diesel option like you all do- pretty cool that you can partner with Peugeot on that- so we're still the same on the 6 speeds, and AWD. I have the SE trim and you have Titanium but that shouldn't affect anything in the driveline in terms of differences... Deep impact blue is a great color. how many km's do you have on it???

[@Phil-1969]

How To Escape: DIY, Tips, and Reviews mine has done 50000 miles so I think about 87000 km and is totally standard. It has full moon roof , leather seats, 19inch wheels , it can park itself and every other toy ford put on them , I’m sure or gearbox is different, I’m sure you over in the USA have a different type. Have you a Facebook page that you have for your car

[@dannybou100]

Did you notice it shifting better or smoother once you did this or was it about the same as before?

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Thats a good question- I think i WANT it to feel better but I think its about the same. I know sometimes people don't have enough fluid in there after a service visit somewhere so after something like this they may have a better experience if theyre just getting back to normal capacity but if you already have the right amount in there I would say it is pretty tough to tell the difference. That and unless you're experiencing other unusual shifting symptoms

[@Gfuel841]

I do have a bit of a delay going from 2 to 3 gear so this method doesn't help at all ?? 😥😥

[@davidwilliams2508]

I'm getting a definite shudder when my 2017 escape upshifts at low speed or climbing a hill. Local shop (not dealer) says I need a clutch for $2800. Think I'll try this first. Oh yes: The car has 102k miles on it. Thoughts? Anybody?

[@greggraham1605]

@@davidwilliams2508 we are screwed.... 2018 shudders a little going uphill and downhill....mine has 54K... What did you end up doing for yours?

[@dannyvictory6920]

Is the same procedure on a 2016 escape

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

It should be the same! Body style didn't change until 17 so you should be at least very similar.

[@dannyvictory6920]

Ok thank u the motor is a 1.6 so I didn't know

[@user-dk5tn6rr6d]

Would using a manual fluid extractor ., And filling it throu the fill hole harm the trans ? I have the fluid and pump waiting to go .

[@masonlovesroblox]

Where did you get the after market splash shield?

[@Firebert79TA]

Thank you for the guide video. I changed the transmission fluid on our 2013 Escape with 1.6 liter engine today. (95k miles) 1:25 The 10mm Allen should be a 5mm. The plug may be an M10, but the Allen hex is much smaller. The 7/16" works for the drain plug, but it's really an 11mm. 4:40 The biggest problem I had was filling with new fluid. I used a smaller, shorter funnel. With both drain plug and level plug still in, the fluid would burp out the top of the funnel and make a mess of the engine bay. A bigger funnel helps as does pouring less fluid at once.

[@aaronmccarty88]

Can't find the location of the fill cap on a 2017 escape

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Hey Aaron- sorry for the delayed response- check out this post on FordEscape.org- there's a user with a '17 Escape who posted pictures of his procedure. Mine is a 2013 so I can't be of much more help here unfortunately: www.fordescape.org/threads/2017-transmission-fluid-change.112736/#lg=thread-112736&slide=0

[@vinceandtheresa1243]

Great video thanks!

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Thank you for the feedback- we really appreciate it and thanks for checking out the channel!

[@IGotTheMicPodcast]

Can I use atf fluid?

[@thatdudeinblack8707]

Wow every 30k miles? I bought mine with 161k and now ut 240k. I haven't done this but will do so very soon!

[@RL-xm1qp]

great video

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Hey thanks so much for the feedback and taking a moment to say so- have a great day, RL!

[@arie1525]

The owner manual said 9 Qt of transmition Fluid, Why did you put 5?

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

With the drain and fill, only ~half of the fluid exits the transmission housing. There is still a large volume still inside. Therefore, a drain and fill more frequently (within reason of course) will never have 100% of the fluid changed out, but you'll always be introducing more clean fluid than the old fluid inside.

[@scottwebber652]

Good info.

[@kbryanl1979]

Thanks for the vid!!!!

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Yes. That is the truth. That third lower bolt makes things difficult.

[@dennisgoe3537]

Castrol Synthetic Transmission fluid works on this car and CVT Transmissions.

[@bztrain]

Excellent video. An app would be fantastic!

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Thanks a lot, Raymond! Would you be interested in being part of the user feedback group to help develop the app? I have a FB group set up that I'm going to start inviting people to for input and preferences :) As a method of thanks, everyone will be entered in a drawing for a $50 Amazon gift card once the app launches and you'd get a free download of the final product

[@bztrain]

@@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews absolutely!

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

@@bztrain check out the group page here man :) Send a request and I'll accept it facebook.com/groups/334262264465205

[@bztrain]

@@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews done

[@fabio40]

Don't the 2013's have a transmission dipstick?

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

They do not- if you have the 6F35 transmission, it is just a level plug. The plug can be accessed in the driver's wheel well.

[@duanesalter1585]

Great video i have a 2016 that I change every 30,000 i just put 5 quarts in and go didn't know about the level drain plug

[@BenefitExploits]

How many fluid changes have you done so far using this method?

[@duanesalter1585]

@@BenefitExploits 2 so far about to do the 3 at 90,000 the trick is try to measure the amount that comes out and go from there

[@BenefitExploits]

@@duanesalter1585 Unfortunately I hit a deer and my grille busted the trans cooler in the front and some fluid leaked out. I didn't drive it after that but im replacing the cooler and saw the fluid was really bad for being a 2019, it was never changed. So I will have to do the method of checking the level with the level plug

[@BenefitExploits]

@@duanesalter1585 i'm not used to the fords, the only cars ive changed tranny fluid on was toyota's with the 6 speed auto and those still had red fluid after 90-100k miles on the fluid lol

[@duanesalter1585]

@@BenefitExploits my Mazda 3 was like that it had a seal trans never had to change it .but the Ford escape needs to be changed every 30 thousand it gets dark quick

[@chefkdowg]

This is the way my 16 edge trans is set up. This helps, I just bought and need to do this.

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Awesome, @chef souffle- glad it is something you can use and hope that the procedure went smoothly if you already tried it! Please let me know if there's anything else we can help with- hopefully we can! Congrats on the '16 Escape!

[@SunSandAndSea]

For my 2018 escape v4 turbo.. its 150 000 miles as per my owners manual

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

That is CRAZY high mileage! Unbelievable that they spec that service interval that late. What is the liter size of your engine btw- pretty sure these are all in-line 4 cylinders unless yours is custom?

[@SunSandAndSea]

@@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews ooops correct turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (245 hp, 275 lb-ft) .. i called dealer now to confirm. They said not meant to be changed before 150 000miles. I got many years to go :)

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

@@SunSandAndSea that is entirely your call but these escape transmissions are not bulletproof. They have "lifetime" filters in them and over time, debris can build up in there if the fluid is not changed. I'm not a pro mechanic nor have I worked at a dealership but I have seen countless escape drivers have failed transmissions on the forums and Facebook groups. I can only say that I have done it every 30k mi as preventative work as our Escapes are well out of warranty coverage at 150k mi and a new trans can cost as much as the rest of the car at that point depending on where you take it.

[@SunSandAndSea]

@@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews makes sense, i have ext warranty for a couple more years. If decide to keep, ill swap out the tranny oil. Great vid though!

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

@@SunSandAndSea thanks man! Yeah use that warranty if you got it!!! Thanks for stopping by and saying something:)

[@dennisgoe3537]

Put the emergency brake on. Use a Hydraulic Jack for safety. If you don't have any thing to put under the car so it doesn't fall on you, at least put the tire underneath to prevent you from getting smooshed.

[@stringerbell1702]

Can i use a ramp instead??

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Sorry for the delay- ramps could be challenging because you wouldn't be able to check your level plug to see if your fluid height is correct. Your wheel would need to rest on the ramp and you can't get to the plug with the wheel on. IF you're not going to check the fluid level, then yes the ramps should be fine so long as your car is in PARK, your E brake is pulled, and something behind your rear wheels- I get paranoid of ramps with cars rolling back if the ground isn't level... but that's just me. Please let me know if you have any other questions

[@andrewshah10]

Hey man thanks for this awesome video! I followed your instructions step by step. I chose method 2 for removing the level plug. Ran into a problem trying to remove the level plug due to tool issues, anyway got it out. Well quite a bit of oil gushed out, more than yours for sure. I am freaking out and trying to figure out if that's ok, or if I did something wrong. Maybe I didn't let the initial drain plug, drain long enough? Or maybe because I struggled getting the level plug out the vehicle, it got too hot? Causing more fluid to gush out? What came out all seemed to be pretty dark, just looked like the old oil. Any advice would be amazing! Thanks so much man.

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Hey there Andrew- I think I understand you're situation but I want to make sure- so you had pulled the drain plug, drained it, then went to pull the level plug and way more came out? If that's correct, I must ask if your vehicle is level? Sometimes if its not level the draining is off. Do you know how much fluid came out (estimate)? If your car is level and you added more fluid with the drain plug installed, the level plug will reset the fluid height.

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

If you think it is not right still, it may be pricey and inconvenient but you could always start the procedure over. Drain everything out again and refill with more fluid?

[@andrewshah10]

@@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews So I pulled drain plug, let it drain until there was a drip, I may have put plug back into fast and should have let drain a little more until it was a slower drip. But anyway once I put drain plug back in I filled with 5 quarts of oil from the top. Then drove it around for about 10 minutes. When I got back I took the tire off and turned the engine on. By the time I removed the level plug the engine probably was on for a good 10 minutes or so. But instead of a little amount coming out, a lot came out, probably a half quart. Yes the vehicle was level. Thanks for quick reply

[@andrewshah10]

@@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews Yes may have to, have a piece of mind. Really appreciate your help!

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

@@andrewshah10 a half quart should be ok. Remember that it has a total capacity of 9 quarts. A drain will get about half of that out...so you may have drained 4 quarts..maybe 5. That leaves anywhere from 4 to 5 quarts left.. if you added 5 quarts, then you should expect to drain anywhere from 0 to 1 quart...does that make sense? I would be more concerned if NOTHING came out. It is good to be cautious. I think you are ok thought man. The math works out. There should be dark fluid in there too- the old stuff- because half of the old stuff didn't drain out. The sump pumps that circulate the oil will move all of it around the system so that is ok to see it coming out too.

[@mattyounis5636]

So glad I have a lift to do this

[@juicynjolly9974]

Is filling without draining a crime? Like what if it was only a little bit 😅😅

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Hah! Certainly not a crime- good question- you just don't want to overfill it. If you know it's leaking fluid periodically for some reason, adding some off and on probably won't hurt. However, if you're adding a lot at a time, it may be too much. The fluid is meant to be a certain operating volume when up to temp and if the fluid level is too high inside, it may throw things out of sync and cause problems. If you add fluid and check the fluid height out the leveling port on the driver's side of the transmission in the wheel well, that's probably ok, but that's most of the work- draining a portion of the old fluid is going to be the most helpful with the full drain and fill - does this make sense? Sorry for the delay in response!

[@USArmy91222]

you can also just measure how much fluid comes out then add the same back in 🙂

[@pichakrez]

where is fill cap transmission on 2018 scape location?

[@musharrofhossain4735]

I put 5 litter transmission fluid , level my car and start the engine and open the drain plug but after 10 minutes no fluid came out. When I stop the engine then fluid come out . I checked all video but every video shows after engine start then fluid come out. Now the question which is right ?

[@badactor3440]

5 liters is the limit. Do not overfill or you risk a catastrophic failure.

[@morganlingsweiler9813]

The engine and transmission might not have been up to temperature. You might have needed to go for a drive to get it warmed up to the proper operating temp. I changed fluid on a ZF transmission on a BMW and you have to use a obd2 scanner plugged into the car to make sure the temperature of the transmission is in the perfect temperature range. It was crazy how right when it started getting to the proper temperature, fluid would come out of the fill hole, and you couldn't turn the car off or fluid would gush out.

[@patrickvaglienti3252]

T30 Torx driver Amazon link is incorrect above (it also links to the catch pan).

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Oh shoot! Thanks for the heads up! I'll correct that today- thanks Patrick!

[@patrickvaglienti9151]

@@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews Absolutely. Excellent video tutorial. Thank you!

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

@@patrickvaglienti9151 glad you could use it! Have a great rest of your weekend!

[@Gfuel841]

What can I do if I want to remove all of the fluid

[@dennisgoe3537]

Measure how much came out.

[@Kyle-fo7kb]

What splash shield do you have?

[@HowToEscapeDIYTipsandReviews]

Its the aftermarket shield by GZYF from Amazon. We have a review video on it on the channel as well as a link to affiliate listing here: www.amazon.com/dp/B07PWWPHW4?ascsubtag=amzn1.ideas.N8RG6G8S1RNK&linkCode=sl1&tag=howtoescapewi-20&linkId=2875499f408717b12a5b70a609189049&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl