Transmission Fluid Check

[RPGR90s]

I have a 2019 ST with 93k miles. I thought the auto trans had a dipstick so I removed the air box. All I see is a rubber sort of clamp that I would expect to be where the dipstick is. 

 

I removed it and it definitely gives access to the inside of the tranny. So I grabbed a very long thin screwdriver, inserted it, but didn't see any evidence of fluid. I know it has fluid as it runs and shifts fine, so I have a couple of questions.

 

1. Is there a way to check the fluid level?
2. Is there a fluid change interval?
3. Is there a drain plug?
4. What is the quantity after a fluid change?
5. What is the recommended fluid and amount?

Thanks very much!!!!

[Wubster100]

51 minutes ago, RPGR90s said:

Is there a way to check the fluid level?

The transmission must be warmed to operating temperature. Confirm the temperature with a scan tool. The vehicle must be level. Use the transmission leveling plug on the side of the vehicle.

 

52 minutes ago, RPGR90s said:

Is there a fluid change interval?

Change every 30k miles. The owners manual shows intervals.

 

53 minutes ago, RPGR90s said:

Is there a drain plug?

Yes, there is a drain plug, fill plug (the rubber vent that you removed), and a leveling plug.
 

54 minutes ago, RPGR90s said:

What is the quantity after a fluid change?

There is no specific quantity. You must overfill the transmission, then use the leveling plug to drain excess fluid.
 

55 minutes ago, RPGR90s said:

What is the recommended fluid and amount?

Mercon ULV / Valvoline Mercon ULV equivalent. Do not use anything else, such as Mercon V or LV.
 

57 minutes ago, RPGR90s said:

I thought the auto trans had a dipstick so I removed the air box. All I see is a rubber sort of clamp that I would expect to be where the dipstick is. 

 

I removed it and it definitely gives access to the inside of the tranny. So I grabbed a very long thin screwdriver, inserted it, but didn't see any evidence of fluid.

There is no transmission dipstick. DO NOT insert anything into the transmission other than the fluid.

See these threads:
 

 

[boostededge]

Keep in mind the ST is "full +1 quart". 

[RPGR90s]

Thank You all very much. I changed the old fluid (93k) and it came out nasty black.

 

I'm embarrassed that I did not investigate further. I bought the car new and asked the service manager about the transmission, and he said, "its filled for life".

 

My fault for not researching. BUT, it definitely shifts better now. Maybe a placebo effect, but I feel better having done it. 

[Samurai Edge]

19 hours ago, RPGR90s said:

Thank You all very much. I changed the old fluid (93k) and it came out nasty black.

 

I'm embarrassed that I did not investigate further. I bought the car new and asked the service manager about the transmission, and he said, "its filled for life".

 

My fault for not researching. BUT, it definitely shifts better now. Maybe a placebo effect, but I feel better having done it. 

 

Service Managers and Service Advisors say all sorts of things when they have no idea what they are talking about.  They will tell you that conventional oil and full synthetic oil are the same and you should change your oil at 3K miles.  They will also tell you the PTU never needs a fluid change.

 

Do your own research.  Change out the PTU and RDU fluids at 20K miles.  Use proper rated fluids, which do not have to be Motorcraft.  There are other brands that are just as good but less expensive.  Redline and Motul are typically what I use