Tranny Fluid Drain

[RAK]

I have a 2003 Mustang with 30K miles on the ticker, and the owner's
guide says the transmission fluid should be changed at
30K. I know next to nothing about transmission fluids (properties,
brands, levels of quality, etc.). Because the vehicle is 14 years old, is it due
for a drain, or can I let it go for a few more thousand miles?
So far I've not experienced any problems with the transmission (leaks,
rough shifting, etc.).
Any input or suggestions would be appreciated!

 

[PolarisX]

I don't think that transmission fluid has an interval based on time, its only mileage usually.

 

[barkingspider]

How about do just a drain and refill?

 

[Brent_G]

Drain and refill would be fine if you wanted to - never hurts to freshen that fluid up.

Trans will be just fine if you don't for awhile - there are thousands and thousands of cars older than yours with 200k+ running around on factory fluid.

 

[Leo99]

Do you plan to drive it more? What kind of driving do you do with it? My guess is worst comes to worst, you might start to see some transmission issues at 60,000 miles if you never change it out. Which is like another 15 years at the rate you're going.

 

[TmanP]

You can certainly wait. I wouldn't lose any sleep over it. But if it were mine, I'd change it within a year or two. That is very low mileage!

 

[Kestas]

I feel there should be more urgency in changing this fluid. It is original and loaded with break-in debris. It should be changed as soon as convenient, and include cleaning of the pan. Ideally, a complete fluid exchange should be done. Future maintenance can include short cuts. I trust the owner is a used car buyer like most of us here, and he'd like the car to last 150K miles or more with a trouble-free transmission.

 

[Kira]

I agree with this last response. You have break in debris. Have you any skinny on any previous owner's driving habits, as in: did he beat on your car?

I've done a couple of "low mileage drain & fills".
One 12 year FF with 48K and an 11 year FF with 50K. In both cases the fluid had noticeable dirt. Wasn't horrid but wasn't good either.
It did feel good to get half the fluid out AND clean the pan and magnet AND change the filter in both cases.

At your 15/30 I'd do it for inspection reasons alone. Think how groovy you'll feel! Kira

 

[Donald]

I would have the ATF changed. A flush exchanges the most old for new fluid.

 

[MolaKule]

The last three responder's have given you good advice.

 

[Bgallagher]

Originally Posted By: MolaKule


The last three responder's have given you good advice.


+1