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When should I service my Ford transmission?

Maintaining your Ford vehicle's transmission is crucial for its longevity and optimal performance. The recommended service intervals for your Ford transmission can vary depending on the model, driving conditions, and your usage patterns. In general, it's advisable to have your Ford transmission serviced at regular intervals to ensure it continues to function smoothly.


Recommended Ford Transmission Service Intervals


According to Ford's recommendations, most Ford transmissions should be serviced every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, or every 2 to 3 years, whichever comes first. This includes draining the old transmission fluid and replacing it with new, high-quality fluid that meets Ford's specifications.


However, it's important to note that some Ford models or driving conditions may require more frequent transmission service. For example, vehicles that are used for towing, hauling heavy loads, or driven in extreme conditions (such as off-road or in hot climates) may need transmission service more often, typically every 30,000 miles or annually.


Signs Your Ford Transmission Needs Service


In addition to following the recommended service intervals, it's essential to be aware of any signs that your Ford transmission may need attention. Some common indicators that your transmission requires service include:



  • Difficulty shifting gears or delayed gear engagement

  • Unusual noises or vibrations coming from the transmission

  • Leaking transmission fluid

  • Burning smell from the transmission

  • Transmission slipping or not holding gears properly


If you notice any of these issues, it's best to have your Ford transmission inspected and serviced by a qualified technician as soon as possible to prevent further damage and costly repairs.


Importance of Using the Right Transmission Fluid


When servicing your Ford transmission, it's crucial to use the correct type and quality of transmission fluid. Ford specifies the use of specific fluids for each transmission model, and using the wrong fluid can lead to premature wear, reduced performance, and even transmission failure.


Always refer to your Ford owner's manual or consult with a Ford-certified technician to ensure you are using the appropriate transmission fluid for your vehicle. Proper fluid maintenance is essential for the long-term health and performance of your Ford transmission.

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.



Does Ford recommend transmission filter change?


Automatic Transmission Service
No, that's because most new Fords are equipped with a lifetime transmission filter so usually changing the transmission filter is not recommended.



How often should transmission fluid be changed on a Ford?


It's recommended to get your transmission fluid changed once every 30,000 to 60,000 miles-or, once every two to four years. However, this is just the suggestion for the average driver.



At what point should you not change transmission fluid?


In the past, the factory-recommended interval for changing the automatic transmission fluid was typically between 30,000 and 100,000 miles, but some newer vehicles have what's referred to as “lifetime fluid.” However, there's some question as to whether never changing the transmission fluid may shorten that “lifetime.” ...



How much does Ford charge for a transmission?


Generally speaking, the cost to replace a transmission in a Ford vehicle can range from a couple thousand dollars to northward of $8,000.



What year is the bad transmission in the Ford?


Vehicles impacted are the Ford Fiesta (model years 2011-2016) and the Ford Focus (model years 2012-2016) equipped with a PowerShift transmission.



What is the life expectancy of a Ford transmission?


around 150,000 to 200,000 miles
However, services and maintenance tend to get more expensive as the vehicle ages – so most drivers choose to upgrade. How long does a Ford F-150 transmission last? A transmission will usually last around 150,000 to 200,000 miles of use, but aggressive driving can cause your transmission to fail prematurely.



How much does a transmission service cost?


Drivers can expect to pay $125 to $250 for a transmission fluid flush service. This is approximately twice as much as a transmission fluid change. This is due in large part to the additional fluid required. A flush will take 12 to 22 quarts, while a fluid change requires 5 to 7 quarts.



Are transmission flushes really necessary?


Routine transmission flushes are especially important if your car uses an automatic transmission. They can help prevent your transmission's internal hydraulic lines from clogging and protect the inner seals, which can lessen the likelihood of transmission fluid leaks.



How do you know when your transmission needs to be serviced?


Rough or delayed shifting represents the most obvious way of understanding how to know if your car needs transmission service. Shifting might be too slow, or it takes your vehicle a few seconds to shift out of park to move forward or reverse.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.