It’s on a 2004 Mercury Grand Marquis, 100,900 miles. I acquired it last year. I haven’t personally changed the fluid, but the carfax does have several maintenance records, but they are pretty generic, like “Recommended maintenance performed” or “Vehicle serviced “ at certain intervals, so I’m not sure.
Also, on top of that, I’m colorblind pretty badly, and can’t really differentiate colors that are very apparent to normal people, red/pink/brown being one of those.
It shifts and functions fine, haven’t ever felt or experienced anything transmission related.
So, this is the color after I wiped the dipstick on a paper towel and it settled in the paper about 5-10 minutes. Is it good or bad? I included two photos, one in the sun and one indoors. Any input is appreciated, thanks.
Also, it does not smell burned. It also doesn’t really smell sweet, more like slightly tart, sort of like engine oil. It doesn’t really stand out or be too obvious, it’s only if you put your nose right up to it.
please use the direct image links . That way we can see your photos. I'll edit your post for you.
The fluid looks OK. The transmission should be in healthy shape.
However, since you have no clear indication that the fluid was changed, and the vehicle has 100k , I would do a drain, pan cleaning, fill and filter change just for the certainty of knowing that it's done. If you do so every 50-60k miles, that should give the transmission the best chance of lasting a long time.
Thanks, much appreciated!