How to check transmission fluid on a Ford Fusion?
Checking the transmission fluid level in your Ford Fusion is an important maintenance task that should be performed regularly to ensure the proper functioning of your vehicle's transmission. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to check the transmission fluid level in your Ford Fusion.
Preparing to Check the Transmission Fluid
Before you begin, make sure your Ford Fusion is parked on a level surface and the engine is running at normal operating temperature. This typically takes about 15-20 minutes of driving. Engage the parking brake and make sure the transmission is in Park (P) for automatic transmissions or Neutral (N) for manual transmissions.
Locating the Transmission Fluid Dipstick
The transmission fluid dipstick is usually located near the front of the engine compartment, often near the firewall. Consult your owner's manual if you're unsure of the exact location.
Checking the Transmission Fluid Level
- Carefully pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a lint-free cloth.
- Reinsert the dipstick fully, then pull it out again.
- Check the fluid level on the dipstick. The fluid should be between the "MIN" and "MAX" marks on the dipstick.
- If the fluid level is low, add the recommended transmission fluid, a little at a time, until the level is within the proper range.
Be sure to use the correct type of transmission fluid specified in your owner's manual. Using the wrong fluid can damage your transmission.
Interpreting the Transmission Fluid Condition
In addition to checking the fluid level, also inspect the color and condition of the transmission fluid. The fluid should be a clear, reddish-pink color. If the fluid appears dark, burnt, or has a burnt odor, it may be time to have the transmission serviced by a professional.
Regularly checking and maintaining the transmission fluid in your Ford Fusion is an important part of keeping your vehicle running smoothly and preventing costly repairs down the line.
How do you know if your transmission is bad on a Ford Fusion?
7 Signs Your Ford May Need a Transmission Repair
- Vehicle Is Sluggish Going Through Gears.
- Odd Burning Smells Are Noticeable.
- Grinding or Squealing Noise Present.
- Vehicle Shifts Erratically at Unnecessary Times.
- You Notice a Transmission Fluid Leak.
- The Vehicle's Clutch Is Dragging.
- Check Engine Light Comes On.
What if my car doesn't have a dipstick?
Find the oil level in your car's onboard computer
As we mentioned, the exact menu names may vary, but the general steps are pretty generic. Go into your onboard computer and find the “Car” or “Service” menu. Scroll until your find the “Levels” options. In there you should see “Oil Level”, select this option.
What are symptoms of low transmission fluid?
If your gears are slipping, it's a clear sign your car's running low on transmission fluid. When experiencing sudden up and down shifts, high RPMs right before shifting, or erratic shifting, seek assistance from your local service center to prevent your transmission from overheating or becoming damaged.
How do you check Ford transmission fluid?
Find the transmission fluid dipstick. On front-wheel-drive cars, it's usually located to the right of the oil dipstick. Check your owner's manual if you're having trouble finding it. Remove the dipstick and touch the fluid, moving it around between your thumb and forefinger.
How to check the transmission fluid on a vehicle without a dipstick?
There is usually a level (fill) plug on the side of the transmission, or a plug in the trans pan that is up a tube. The car must be running when the plug is removed to confirm the fluid level. This can be very difficult to do without having the car on a lift.
Where is the transmission fluid dipstick on a 2012 Ford Focus?
Sadly, your car does not have a transmission dipstick, and has to be checked by removing a plug on the bottom of the transmission. If you are able to get the car jacked up and remove a plug on the side of the transmission, I can walk you through checking and filling the transmission if it is low.
What year do Ford Fusions have transmission problems?
Ford Fusion Transmission Issues
In the time we have been taking Fusion cases, we have become aware of the following alarming issues with models Fusion models 2010 through 2016: Jerking, shuddering, or jolting when shifting gears. RPM malfunctions. Electrical malfunctions.
Where is the transmission dipstick on a 2012 Ford Fusion?
Where is the transmission dipstick on a Ford Fusion? It depends on the year. If its made in 2012 or in previous years, the dipstick is near the firewall just next to the battery. They are either an obvious yellow, or something that is a black rubber nub.
Do you check transmission fluid with motor running?
Turn on your car, leaving it in park, and let the engine run for a few minutes to warm up. Transmission fluid expands in heat and in order to receive accurate results, it must be under normal operating conditions. If the fluid is checked when the engine is cold, you may get false results indicating the fluid is low.
Why is there no transmission dipstick?
Many modern cars have no transmission dipstick. What they have is an overflow tube as part of the transmission cover. The theory is that the transmission does not have to serviced for many miles and that it will never leak in the meantime, so there is no need to check the fluid until then. Duh?
