I changed the transmission fluid in our Explorer by draining and filling 3 times. I drove for 10 minutes in between each change. Before changing the fluid I checked the level twice over two different days and the fluid could be seen at the full level. During the checks, I had driven about 25 minutes before checking. I also let the car sit about 20 minutes and then started it up, went through the gears for 15 - 20 seconds and checked the level. The level was on the full mark every time I checked it. I figure good, it's full, so all I have to do is put back exactly what I take out.

Each time I drained the fluid I measured carefully and I drained out 4.5 quarts every time. I made sure to put back in 4.5 quarts every time. So, I drained out 13.5 Quarts total. I had 14 new quarts starting out and I am left with half a quart. I suck at math but I'm pretty sure that means I put in 13.5 quarts.

I have checked the level 3 times using the same method as above before changing. The first time I was on the minimum level. The second time I was on the full level. The third time I was on the low level again.

There are no leaks. I am checking it on a level surface. I don't notice any problems when driving but I'm afraid to keep driving and checking it if it is low. Any suggestions? Did I possibly screw up checking it at first and it was really low to begin with?

It's a 2011 Explorer XLT V6 2WD. I used the Motorcraft Mercon LV fluid so it should be the exact same fluid that was in there.

 

Did you check the fluid level hot or cold when beginning your exchange process? How about later?

 

I checked it hot after driving for about 20 minutes and then going through the gears. After the last change, I checked it after 10 minutes of driving and it looked good.

There are no leaks that I see. I keep it parked in the garage and the floor and drain plug area has remained dry. I read that the plug is easy to overtighten so I made sure to make note of how many turns it took to loosen. I retightened the same amount after each change.

I did end up driving again last night and after 10 minutes it was just below the hashmarks. I added about 1/4 of a quart because I figured it has to be low. I drove another 15 minutes and checked again. It was just above the hashmarks so I added the rest of it and after 10 minutes of driving again it was just below the maximum line. I checked it one more time when I got home and it was still right below the maximum line. Finally, it's good, right?

Well, this morning for good measure I parked in what I'm pretty sure is a fairly level parking lot and I'll be damned if it's not below the damn line again! This was after 17-18 minutes of driving mostly on the interstate at 75 and the last 5 minutes I was doing around 45-50. I don't get it.

I took out 13.5 quarts and I have now put in 14. I hate to keep adding and I'm really starting to feel like an idiot at this point.

 

Definitely don't add anymore. I'd say you're good where you have it. You don't want to over-fill.

 

Thanks, and nope I'm not adding more. If it is over by half a quart do you think it would be an issue? I know transmissions are picky. Honestly, I have not noticed any issues with it but we have not driven it very much since. I'm sure I am overthinking it but just seems I should be able to get a consistent reading.

 

I'm not qualified to give that answer haha. I'd ask a Ford mechanic.

 

A half quart over shouldn't be an issue.