Manual Transmission: Lubrication

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Ford Ranger. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The M5OD-R1 transmissions are designed so that the internal parts operate in an oil bath circulated by the motion of the gears and shafts. All parts are amply lubricated if these procedures are followed:

Maintain the correct fluid level by inspecting it regularly.
Change the fluid at recommended intervals. Refer to the owner's literature for the recommended intervals.
Use MERCON® Multi-Purpose Automatic Transmission Fluid XT-2-QDX (US); XT-2-LM12 (Canada) meeting Ford specification MERCON®.

High operating temperatures increase the lubricant's rate of oxidation and shorten its effective life. When the average operating temperature is high, the transmission may require more frequent fluid changes. The following conditions in any combination can cause high operating temperatures:

Operating consistently at slow speeds
High ambient temperatures
Restricted air flow around the transmission
Exhaust system too close to the transmission