Scotty says "..if you have a really old car with high mileage, don't change the transmission fluid..." He also cites "..about 200k miles..." as too many.
I have a 1996 Grand Marquis with 133,000 miles. It's been well cared for, but the transmission fluid has never been changed. Is it too late? The car shifts fine except for a bit of a shutter at around 35 mph (not always). I want to make this car last as long as possible and I change the oil and filter every 3-5k miles.
BTW - Should I Create Poll here for this question or just post this question?
Thanks!
polls are a waste of time
Read the transmission article in the FAQ on the main page . The information there will help you make your decision.
Thanks, I've read the article in the FAQ - helpful.
So, my Grand Marquis has 134,000 miles (less than the >150k cited as too many). it does not slip, and the fluid seems only a little brown with no real odor.
The only symptoms are a little shutter at times at around 35 mph and perhaps a bit of late shift (not sure this is even happening - hard for me to tell if it's late).
My inclination is the change it (myself) though I've not done this before. Any thoughts are appreciated!
Note: this is the fluid and filter I found: Genuine Ford XT-5-5QM MERCON-V Automatic Transmission and Power Steering Fluid - 5 Quart https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NU67V8/ref=ewc_pr_img_1?smid=A1KGK42RKCGLZP&psc=1
Motorcraft FT-105 Filter Assy https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000C5BPFW/ref=ewc_pr_img_3?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1
If I drain the pan, will 5 quarts of fluid be enough to replace?
Firstly, this fluid should be always changed. It doesn't matter the maker or vehicle you have. Fluids get dirty and brake down overtime. Secondly, Transmission fluid change typically is easy to do. If you are the original owner and you've never changed the fluid then, simply collect all the fluid that comes out and put the same amount back with new fluid and you are done.
Thanks, I've heard Scotty say "150,000 or more" miles on a vehicle that has never been changed is a bad idea, which can cause the transmission to start slipping badly (I've also heard him give "200,000 miles" as a cutoff... "unless it's an old clunker you just want to squeeze a few more miles out of... what the heck, it may work!"
Having said that, it seems this car is a good candidate for changing 4 quarts and replacing the filter and pan gasket. I'm just looking to build my confidence. This car is my daily driver, and irreplaceable for me.