How to Change the Transmission Fluid in a 2002 Ford Explorer

The 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with an automatic transmission that shifts through the drive gears without the driver having to shift manually. The automatic transmission operates using hydraulic fluid that degrades over a predictable amount of time. The Explorer's service manual lists the intervals that the fluid breaks down and when it will need to be changed. It is imperative to change the fluid as directed to avoid damage to transmission parts.

Things You'll Need

• Transmission fluid
• Drain pan
• Crescent wrench

Instructions

1. Allow the vehicle to cool down completely.

2. Position the drain pan under the transmission pan. The pan is located forward of the oil pan directly under the transmission.

3. Remove the drain plug using the crescent wrench and turning counter-clockwise.

4. Allow the fluid to drain until there is just an occasional drip.

5. Replace the drain plug using the crescent wrench and turning clockwise until tight.

6. Open the hood and locate the transmission dipstick. The dipstick is behind the oil dipstick near the firewall.

7. Pour five quarts of new transmission fluid into the dipstick tube.

8. Start the engine and allow it to come up to operating temperature.

9. Add transmission fluid until the level reaches the full hot mark on the dipstick.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure to reinstall the drain plug to avoid losing fluid on the shop floor and causing lengthy clean-up.

• Do not mix transmission fluids. This will damage seals in the transmission and cause costly repairs.

• Make sure to allow the engine to come up to operating temperature before adding additional fluid. The fluid level will not read properly unless the engine is at the proper temperature.

• Do not attempt this procedure until the engine and transmission are completely cooled down. Severe burns will result.

• Misuse of hands tools can damage equipment.