2002 Ford Escape XLT 3.0L Automatic 2WD

My wife's Escape has around 102k on the clock, and I'm almost sure that the transmission fluid has never been changed. It's not burnt by any means, but it could use a good flush and filter change, IMO.

I was wanting to do the "gentle" flush that alot of folks on here speak of, then take the pan off and change the filter.

Is this reccomended with the miles she has on it?

I've heard from a lot of local-yocal's (you know how that goes) that once a car reaches 100k and it has never had the fluid changed, you're asking for trouble if you do. They say it's best to just leave it alone.

Is this true?

Thanks for any insight!

Nightrain

 

No, it isn't true. Th only time new fluid won't help is if the trans is already destroyed. If it's working fine and the fluid doesn't look burnt new fluid can only help.

 

Roger that.

Thanks for your input.

The transmission is working great... Only the fluid needs a good changing.

Nightrain

 

Change it.
The reason those guys think you shouldn't change it is because IF you ahve some sludge or crap built up in the corners of the flow pathways, and IF the new fluid dislodges them instead of dissolving them, you COULD block off a passageway with the crap and starve part of the tranny of fluid.

But for my money, that's a lot of things that need to happen just right. You are far more likely to see the new fluid dissolve any deposits slowly and that can only help.

 

20 years ago I would have told you that changing the fluid now would loosen the sludge build up in your tranny and either cause leaks, or block something off, but things have come a long way in 20 years. Motors and transmissions don't seem to burn up the fluids as quick as they used to. I'd go ahead and change it. Just don't wait so long next time.

 

I personally wouldn't flush at ALL. Just pull the pan change the filter, if the converter can be drained drain it and refill. I don't think the newer cars & trucks have converter drains but ask.

 

The Escape does not have a drain plug on the torque converter.

You can adapt the fluid change procedure below to the Escape:
https://www.ford-trucks.com/article/...nsmission.html

The part I don't know is which is in and out on the cooler lines.