How much is a transmission flush at a Ford dealership?
A Ford dealership typically charges roughly $350 to $500 for a transmission flush, with higher prices if a filter, pan gasket, or specialty fluid is required, and depending on your location. This provides the basic answer and sets up a closer look at what to expect.
Typical price range at Ford dealerships
Prices at Ford dealerships vary by model, region, and service details. The ranges below reflect common quotes customers report from U.S. Ford dealers.
- Transmission flush (fluid replacement only): roughly $300–$500.
- Transmission service with filter and pan gasket replacement: roughly $450–$700.
- Special cases (premium fluids, complex transmissions such as certain CVTs, or additional parts): roughly $600–$900.
Prices can differ based on the vehicle year, transmission type, and regional labor rates. Always get a written quote before approving service.
What to expect during the service
Here's what typically happens during a transmission flush at a Ford dealership and how it differs from a simple fluid change.
- A flush uses a machine to circulate new fluid through the transmission while removing old fluid from the system, often with a new filter if the transmission has one.
- In some cases, dealers replace the transmission pan gasket and the filter as part of the service, which adds to both cost and duration.
- Dealerships use OEM fluids that meet Ford's specifications, which may require specific fluid types (such as Dexron VI) depending on the model year.
Ask for a written description of the work included in the quoted price to avoid surprises. A flush can take longer than a standard drain-and-fill.
How to get an exact quote
To secure an accurate price from a Ford dealer, use these steps.
- Have your vehicle's year, make, model, and VIN handy so the service advisor can select the correct service code and fluids.
- Call the dealership's service department or use their online price estimator to request a "transmission flush" and specify whether you want a filter/pan gasket replaced.
- Ask for the price difference between a fluid replacement (drain-and-fill) and a full flush if you're unsure which service you need.
- Get a written estimate that itemizes parts (fluids, filters) and labor; confirm whether tax is included and whether disposal fees apply.
Tip: Compare quotes from multiple Ford dealers within driving distance and consider independent shops; price can vary significantly even for the same service.
Summary
Transmission flush pricing at Ford dealerships sits in a broad range, typically $300–$500 for a basic flush and $450–$700 or more if filters, pan gaskets, or complex transmissions are included. Always obtain a written quote, verify the exact work included, and compare nearby shops to ensure you’re getting good value. Planning ahead and choosing the right service for your vehicle can help manage cost while protecting your transmission.
How much is a service at a Ford dealership?
How much does a Ford service cost?
| Model | Interim service price | Full service price |
|---|---|---|
| Focus, 2.0T | £161.45 | £269.15 |
| Focus, 1.0 EcoBoost | £150.89 | £259.08 |
| Fiesta, 1.25 | £139.40 | £229.55 |
| Fiesta, Zetec 1.0T | £150.89 | £254.15 |
Does Ford recommend transmission flush?
Ford does not recommend a full transmission flush for many newer models, preferring instead a pan drop, filter replacement, and fluid refill, especially for vehicles with "lifetime" fluids. For many vehicles, the recommended service interval is around 150,000 miles, though this can be sooner for severe driving conditions like regular towing.
Why Ford recommends against flushes on some models
- Potential for damage: Some Ford transmissions, particularly the newer 10-speed automatic, can be damaged by a full-pressure flush. The high pressure can push debris into the valve body and cause internal damage.
- "Lifetime" fluid: Ford often uses "lifetime" fluid, which is designed to last the life of the vehicle under normal driving. A flush can be more aggressive than recommended for these sealed systems.
When to service the transmission
- Follow the owner's manual: The most reliable source is your vehicle's owner's manual, which will outline the specific service intervals for your make and model.
- Severe driving conditions: Check and replace the fluid more frequently if you regularly tow, drive in extreme temperatures, or take frequent short trips.
- At the recommended interval: Under normal use, many Ford vehicles are recommended for a transmission fluid and filter service at around 150,000 miles.
Recommended service for many Fords
- Pan drop and refill: A pan drop service removes and replaces the fluid that has drained from the pan and allows for a filter change.
- Why this is preferred: This method is less likely to cause damage to the internal components of the transmission compared to a full flush.
- What to expect: This service will replace a significant portion of the old fluid and include a new filter, which helps ensure your new fluid stays clean.
Does Ford dealership do transmission fluid change?
For the most part, it'll take a Ford service center about an hour to refill your transmission's fluid – and maybe a little longer if they're flushing out all the old fluid and any residue or contaminants at the same time.
How much should a full transmission flush cost?
A full transmission flush typically costs between $150 and $250, but can range from $100 to $400 or more depending on the vehicle, location, and if other parts like the filter are replaced. Costs are influenced by factors such as your vehicle's size and fluid capacity, the type of fluid required (especially for luxury or high-performance cars), and the labor rates in your area. A flush is generally more expensive than a simple fluid change because it uses a machine to replace nearly all of the old fluid.
Cost factors
- Vehicle type: Larger vehicles or those with higher-end components often have higher costs due to a greater fluid capacity and more expensive parts.
- Location: Labor costs vary significantly by region. Major cities and areas with a higher cost of living will generally have higher prices.
- Dealership vs. Independent Mechanic: Dealerships often charge more for parts and labor than independent mechanics or transmission shops.
- Fluid type: The type of transmission fluid needed can impact the price. Specialty or high-performance fluids can be more expensive, and luxury vehicles may require specific OEM fluids.
- Additional services: The cost will be higher if the transmission filter and pan gasket are replaced, which is a recommended part of a comprehensive transmission service.
How to get an accurate quote
- Contact shops directly: Call a few different transmission shops, independent mechanics, and dealerships in your area.
- Provide vehicle details: Give them your vehicle's make, model, and year to get the most accurate estimate.
- Ask about all-inclusive service: Be sure to ask if the quote includes the cost of the fluid, labor, and replacement of the filter and gasket, or if those are extra.
