If I remember correctly, they said the same thing about the new Explorer when it came out as an 02. It does in fact have no dip stick for the tranny fluid. HOWEVER, you can still change it. There's a plug in the bottom to drain it and then the new fluid is pumped back up into it. Easier, no. But it can still be done.

 

I myself have not changed the transmission fluid in my truck for 98000 miles. I am quite proud of that. Keeps em running longer. So no mechanic will screw it up on purpose. That happens you know.

 

An automotive engineer at Bendix told me there are heavy duty trucks on the road with sealed tranny's that have already gone 500,000 miles without a change of fluid because they are using a new type of synthetic unaffected by heat. Sealed means no dip stick, no drain plug, no contamination. If a big semi or dirt hauler can do it, why not a light weight expy?