Fluid Condition Check (6-Speed)
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Montego, 2006 Ford Freestyle, and 2006 Ford Five Hundred. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Check the fluid level.
- Observe the color and the odor. The color under normal circumstances should be a dark red color, not brown or black or have a burnt odor.
- Hold the fluid level indicator over a white facial tissue and allow the fluid to drip onto the facial tissue and examine the stain.
- If evidence of solid material is found, the transmission fluid pan should be removed for further inspection.
- If the stain is a foamy pink color, this may indicate coolant in the transaxle. The engine cooling system should also be inspected at this time.
- If fluid contamination or transaxle failure is confirmed by the sediment in the bottom of the fluid pan, install a new transaxle. If installing a new transaxle, the cooler bypass valve and cooler tubes should be cleaned.
- If the transaxle is to be overhauled or if installing a new transaxle, install a new transmission fluid cooler. For additional information, refer to TRANSMISSION FLUID COOLER .