Hey guys, I have a 2007 FX4 with a 5.4, with just over 28k on it. I have been short on time lately so I brought my truck in to get an oil change at the dealer. The service guy tells me that at 30k our trucks should get their transmission fluid changed. I told him no way, I really did have to get going because I had somewhere to go, but that can not possibly be right can it? I was expecting him to ask me about the air filter, but he didnt even mention that! Thanks

 

Well, for severe service, yes it's 30k otherwise it's 50k.

Here's what I have done on every vehicle (auto trans) that I have owned for 30 years....

At 20k miles, I change the filter (due to possible residual/initial wear particulates that may be floating inside) and either drain the torque converter (if so equipped with a plug) or disconnect the trans cooler line at the radiator, fill the pan with fresh fluid, my wife starts the engine and when 2-3 quarts drain into a bucket, she shuts it off, I refill the pan and repeat until the fluid is clear and in case of the f150, 14 quarts of fresh fluid is in.

I change only the fluid after that (unless I determine substances/contamination in the oil). The intervals vary depending on the type of trans, type of fluid and conditions, but in general, every 30k miles. Heat is a killer on automatic trans fluid and when we lived in the desert area, I changed the trans fluid at the end of summer every year.

In regards to filters, oem is fine, but I typically use Wix.

In regards to trans oil, both in sticks and auto's I have always used Valvoline.

I have also never had a trans failure in any vehicle I own and typically keep my vehicles for 10+ years, with over 100k on the odometer.

 

Personally I think thats BS,but you may want to consult your owners manual.There may be something in it concerning changing the fluid when under "adverse conditions" like heavy towing for long periods.
I DO think there is a recommended change interval,but would think it would be around 60,000 miles or so.

 

Hello Folks, Most all Fords will state in their service manuals to change the Tranny fluid at 30,000 miles. If you are the original owner and have 28K on it you better do it. You know what wil happen at 50K if something happend to the tranny and you don't change the fluid at 30,000 mile. I have done mine at 30K-60K-90K and I do feel the difference when it shifts with the new fluid. I would suggest the BG trans. flush. It will do all 16 quarts. Good luck

 

The maintenance manual for my 07 at 30K, 60K, 90K, 120K etc, normal driving says:

"Change automatic transmission fluid on vehicles equipped with the Torqshift transmission. Replace
the remote filter element on the vehicles equipped with the Torqshift transmission. Inspect automatic transmission/transaxle fluid level
on all other vehicles, if equipped with dipstick. Consult your dealer for your particular requirements."

The manual recommends the trans fluid be changed at 150K.

"Change automatic transmission/transaxle fluid and filter (filter not required on CD4E)."

Remember F150's do not have the torqshift trans, that's a super duty unit.

"Items Needing Special Attention
If you operate your Ford/Lincoln/Mercury primarily in one of the more demanding “Special Operating Conditions” listed below, you will need to have some items maintained more frequently. If you only occasionally operate your vehicle under these conditions, it is not necessary to perform the additional maintenance. For specific recommendations, see your dealership service advisor or qualified service professional.
Towing a trailer or using a camper or car-top carrier
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months Change engine oil and replace oil filter
Every 30,000 miles Change automatic transmission/transaxle fluid (not
required on 6R60 transmission)"

But hey, do what you want when it comes to servicing the trans. I haven't touched mine and I've got 90K without any issues. I'll service mine at about 100K.

 

Thanks everyone, I was pretty sure that we didn't have that Torqshift transmission in the F150 but I wasn't 100% sure. I appreciate everyone's response!

 

For the Price and piece of Mind I replace my fluild every 30K. I plan on driving this truck into the ground so every 2-3 years (30K) I spend the $150 to flush it is well worth it as opposed to the $2000 bill it would cost to have it rebuilt etc.

My $0.02

Personally if I plowed then I definately would be changing it every 30K