Vehicle Questions and Answers
Welcome to the Vehicle Q&A Hub. Find answers to your automotive questions, share your experiences, and get expert advice on vehicle maintenance, troubleshooting, and more!
616 views
2 answers
For a 2002 Ford Explorer, it's important to regularly change the transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Keeping an eye on the fluid quality is crucial, as old fluid can lead to unpleasant sounds and potential problems like a worn-out torque converter. The transmission plays a vital role in a vehicle's operation, so it's essential to address any issues promptly. Watch this video for guidance on how to change the transmission fluid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bOgs_zbzA5I. Symptoms of transmission issues include leaks, delayed shifts causing acceleration problems, slipping gears, shuddering, hard shifts, jerking, or getting stuck gears. Addressing these concerns promptly can prevent further complications.
To begin, raise the vehicle using ramps or a jack for support. Pop the hood by pulling the latch on the driver's side and then the one under the hood. Locate the skid plate beneath the car, usually found in the middle. Undo all the screws and shift the skid plate forward to remove it. Position a container underneath to catch the oil during the next step. Loosen the drain plug bolts; as you remove it, oil will start draining immediately. Allow the oil to fully drain before taking out the plug. Twist the oil filter counterclockwise to remove it, expect some oil to trickle out. Thoroughly clean the engine's oil filter gasket surface. Get the new oil filter ready by filling it with oil and lubricating the gasket, then screw it in place. Use a funnel to pour new oil into the engine, check the oil level using the dipstick, inspect under the car for any leaks, and finally reassemble everything back together.