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The 2006 Ford Explorer comes without a transmission dipstick as Ford believes the transmission is tightly sealed and doesn't require regular fluid checking by the owner. Typically, a Ford dealership mechanic will examine the fluid during an oil change. The only method to check the transmission fluid is through the valve on the transmission's oil pan side. You'll have to drain a small quantity of fluid, then securely close the valve to ensure it's clean. It's recommended to replace the fluid every 30,000 to 50,000 miles to safeguard your transmission.
The sole method to inspect the transmission fluid level is through a check valve positioned on the transmission oil pan.
Regrettably, it's located above the transmission on the passenger side, but you'll need to locate the bolt and the stick is attached to it by touch.
Are you serious? Is this really a smart move by Ford?
That answer is definitely incorrect. I understand that this is an older discussion, but I'm confident that people are seeking the right information. Raise your car off the ground and inspect the driver's side of the transmission. You'll see a long plastic dipstick protruding upward. You can easily check and top up the fluid from there without needing any special tools.
Ford engineers lack common sense by designing a transmission that cannot be easily maintained by the owner. It is surprising that they included a reusable gasket without a drain plug or dipstick, making it seemingly useless for regular maintenance. These so-called engineers must have overlooked practical design principles if they even attended college. It appears they either do not care for their own vehicles or prefer driving Hondas.
here is a rephrased version of the text with some unique wording:
Firstly, the 2006 Explorer lacks a transmission dipstick. Filling and draining the transmission is carried out by accessing a hole situated at the base of the transmission. To check the fluid level, begin by warming up the engine and engaging the parking brake. While the engine is running, shift the vehicle into Neutral and locate the drain/fill screw beneath. With a container prepared to catch any drips, unscrew the small plug. A minimal amount of fluid should drip out, and it should not flow out excessively unless it has been overfilled. It is important to note that if the engine is not running or if the vehicle is in Park, the transmission will not circulate the fluid, causing it to drain once the screw is loosened. Once the screw is removed, you can use a pump with a hose to start adding more fluid. Continue adding fluid until it begins to overflow from the hole. After removing the hose, wait about a minute for the excess fluid to drain out before replacing the screw. When incorporating a stop leak or stop slip additive, remember to remove the screw with the engine turned off. Measure the amount of fluid that is being drained. Replace the screw when you have removed the quantity that will be replaced with the additive. Subsequently, start the vehicle, shift into Neutral, and add the additive following the same procedure mentioned earlier. Ensure that the parking brake is engaged to prevent any movement of the vehicle. It is worth noting that inside the transmission pan lies a tube that is approximately 3 to 4 inches in height. The top of this tube indicates the proper fluid level. Excess fluid will drain out when the screw is removed, while inadequate fluid levels will not result in any outflow. This design prevents the transmission from being overfilled, which could lead to rapid seal damage and transmission failure.