Last Updated on September 16, 2022
The third generation of the Ford Explorer does not come with a dipstick, making the process of checking transmission fluid a daunting task. This is because this type of sealed transmission is idiot-proof. While some people have found a way to check the fluid level in their transmission by using the shifter in neutral and the engine hot, most people cannot find a simple method. However, there are a few easy ways to check transmission fluid level on any model of Ford Explorer.
Symptoms of low transmission fluid
If you’ve ever noticed that your vehicle isn’t shifting correctly or feels hot while driving, it may be time to check your transmission fluid. A low level of transmission fluid can lead to expensive damage and can result in a dashboard warning light. Here are some symptoms of low transmission fluid in your 2008 Ford Explorer. If you notice any of these problems, you should have your vehicle checked by a professional.
Observe the color of your Ford Explorer’s transmission fluid. Ideally, the fluid is amber. However, it may change over time to a dirty red. If it does change color, it won’t affect your transmission. Nevertheless, if you notice black fluid or burnt transmission fluid, it may be time to change it. These symptoms indicate that your transmission fluid is low or leaking.
While most modern automatic transmissions provide years of maintenance-free service, low transmission fluid can cause your vehicle to run rough and even leave you stranded on the side of the road. To ensure that your vehicle’s transmission fluid level remains at optimal levels, check the transmission dipstick for any red liquid or puddles. In some cases, it will only require a simple swap of a failed hose or gasket.
If your Ford Explorer has a maintenance-free automatic transmission, you will not have to worry about checking the transmission fluid. However, if you suspect that your transmission fluid is low, you should take your vehicle to a mechanic for a proper check. You should also leave your engine running while adding the fluid. You should also put the vehicle in park and activate the handbrake for safety. To change the transmission fluid, you should read your owner’s manual.
If you notice any of these symptoms in your 2008 Ford Explorer, you may have a leak in your transmission. While this leak is typically minor and will easily be fixed, it can still cause a delay when shifting gears. A small amount of transmission fluid is not a big deal, but it is an important one to look for. Getting your car checked will help you avoid major transmission issues and make your vehicle safer to drive.
In addition to leaking transmission fluid, low transmission fluid can cause your vehicle to run harder than it should. In manual transmissions, sudden hard shifting may be the first sign of a leak. This issue may be symptomatic of a leak, which can be easily solved by adding transmission fluid. A leak in the transmission fluid is the only way for fluid to escape. To confirm whether you have a leak, consult your owner’s manual. Make sure to check your transmission fluid level regularly and replace it when needed.
In addition to shifting problems, transmission failure can lead to a higher repair cost. For the 2002 and 2004 model years, the average repair cost is $2,840. This failure typically occurs at under 100,000 miles, which is when transmission fluid should be changed. The transmission failure could be a result of contaminated or worn torque converter needle bearings. Often, you’ll notice that the gears are slipping or grinding when you shift. Another sign of low transmission fluid is a burning smell under the vehicle.
Ways to avoid low transmission fluid
You probably don’t think about transmission fluid in your car unless you notice that it’s getting low. Luckily, today’s automatic transmissions are designed to give you years of trouble-free service. A few ways to check your transmission’s fluid level include following a proper Ford maintenance schedule, ensuring that you have all of the fluid you need, and visually inspecting the transmission coolant lines. One of the most common causes of low transmission fluid in Ford vehicles is a leaking pan gasket. Similarly, you should avoid checking your transmission at cold temperatures, as doing so will result in a false reading on the dipstick.
Low transmission fluid on your 2008 Ford Explorer can cause a variety of problems for your vehicle. Fortunately, there are several ways to tell if your transmission fluid is low: the car may not shift smoothly, or it may smell like burning oil. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is best to visit a professional mechanic to get the fluid replaced as soon as possible. In some cases, the transmission fluid will be reddish in color. Alternatively, you may notice water or engine oil smearing the ground.
Low transmission fluid can lead to a number of issues, including erratic gear shifting, decreased power, a burning smell, and delayed gear engagement. A faulty transmission may also cause your vehicle to break down, resulting in expensive repairs. If you have a 2008 Ford Explorer with an automatic transmission, you should consider having it inspected to ensure that it’s not too low. By performing this maintenance routine, you will save thousands of dollars in the future. And, if the problem persists, you should get it checked before you drive it.
If you notice a slipping gear while driving, there’s a good chance that you’re experiencing low transmission fluid. The transmission fluid needs to be clean and free-flowing within the transmission in order to function properly. Otherwise, you’ll notice a laggy response to gear changes, and you could risk a major repair bill. As long as you check your transmission fluid level regularly, you’ll be safe and avoid expensive problems in the future.
Before visiting the mechanic, check the fluid level by checking the dipstick. You’ll need to find the dipstick and remove it from its sleeve. You can use a professional tool or follow the steps in your owner’s manual. First, park the vehicle on a level surface. Then, warm up the engine and keep it in neutral or park. Next, wipe the dipstick clean and remove it. Replace the dipstick, if needed.
Using a dipstick is the easiest way to determine whether the transmission fluid level is low. Make sure you use the proper transmission fluid, as a brown or red liquid indicates an internal leak. The dipstick is located on the transmission pan, so you’ll need to use it carefully. A leak in the transmission fluid means a damaged gasket or hose. A leaking transmission fluid could mean a variety of different problems, and you should consult your owner’s manual for information on the proper level of transmission fluid.
Changing transmission fluid
Changing transmission fluid on your 2008 Ford Explorer is not difficult. To do this job, you need to raise the car with jack stands or ramps, and remove the transmission drain plug. The transmission should be amber in color. If it is dirty red or black, you should change it. You can also use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts that hold the transmission together. Once the transmission is raised, you should replace the cooler lines and torque converter drain plug. Add six quarts of automatic transmission fluid.
Automatic Transmission Fluid is available for your Ford Explorer from Advance Auto Parts. You can purchase your new transmission fluid in-store, or have it shipped directly to your home. Changing transmission fluid on a 2008 Ford Explorer is relatively inexpensive, but you should also keep a few factors in mind before you begin the process. To make sure you are buying the right fluid, read the instructions on the bottle. You should also know that this process may require a few steps, and you must do it at least once every two years.
To change the transmission fluid on a 2008 Ford Explorer, you must first remove the transmission filter. This filter is attached to the transmission by bolts, so you must remove the retaining clips and unscrew the transmission pan. Then, you must add the transmission fluid to the 2008 Ford Explorer, making sure to check the level of the fluid using a transmission dipstick. Make sure to drain all of the transmission fluid before you put the car back together.
The best way to check the transmission fluid level in your 2008 Ford Explorer is by following your maintenance schedule. It will prevent your vehicle from experiencing a breakdown due to low transmission fluid. You can also inspect the transmission’s coolant lines for any signs of leaks. The transmission’s pan gasket can be a source of leakage, so you should also check it. Remember that it’s important to check the fluid level on your 2008 Ford Explorer at operating temperature, as checking the transmission at a cold temperature will give you a false reading.
Changing transmission fluid on an 08 Ford Explorer is an easy task and can cost as little as half the cost of a transmission flush. Changing the fluid in your transmission will keep it clean and amiable. Otherwise, the fluid in your transmission can get slack if you don’t change it regularly. To learn more about how to change transmission fluid on your Ford Explorer, check your car’s owner’s manual or contact your local Crown Ford Fayetteville dealership.
About The Author
Wendy Lee is a pop culture ninja who knows all the latest trends and gossip. She's also an animal lover, and will be friends with any creature that crosses her path. Wendy is an expert writer and can tackle any subject with ease. But most of all, she loves to travel - and she's not afraid to evangelize about it to anyone who'll listen! Wendy enjoys all kinds of Asian food and cultures, and she considers herself a bit of a ninja when it comes to eating spicy foods.