How to Drain Transmission Fluid in a 1996 Ford Explorer

Draining the transmission fluid on a 1996 Ford Explorer is a lot different than removing the transmission fluid on most vehicles because the 1996 Ford Explorer does not have a transmission drain plug. The transmission fluid needs to be replaced as recommended by the Ford Explorer's manual. You can drain and replace the transmission fluid on a 1996 Ford Explorer yourself, but you will have to drop the transmission pan just to drain the fluid.

Things You'll Need

• Socket set
• Socket extension
• Ratchet
• Funnel
• Oil catch pan

Instructions

1. Remove all of the transmission pan bolts except for the bolts in front of the transmission pan with a ratchet, extension and the appropriate-sized socket. Hold the pan up with your hand so that the fluid won't run out all over you.

2. Place the catch pan under the transmission pan and let the pan hang down by the front bolts. Once the transmission fluid has drained, remove the front bolts then finish pouring the fluid out of the transmission pan into the catch pan.

3. Reinstall the transmission pan and fill the transmission back up by putting a funnel into the transmission dipstick holder then pouring the transmission fluid in until the transmission is full.

Tips & Warnings

• The reason for leaving the front bolts on the transmission pan is that the fluid won't run out all over you, and the front bolts can hold the pan while the fluid is draining into the catch pan.

• Always check the transmission fluid level on the dipstick while the engine is running or you will overfill the transmission.

References

• "Haynes Ford Explorer Manual for 1991-2001 Ford Explorer;" John Haynes; 2001

Resources

• RepairPal: Ford Explorer Repair and Maintenance