2007 Trans Question

[Ltcjc754]

Just recently purchased an '07 Ranger with auto trans. it has 247,000 miles. Wondering if I should drain and replace the trans fluid and filter, or leave well enough alone. Any thoughts?

 

[sgtsandman]

Just recently purchased an '07 Ranger with auto trans. it has 247,000 miles. Wondering if I should drain and replace the trans fluid and filter, or leave well enough alone. Any thoughts?

That’s a tough question. Any idea if it was ever changed before?

What is the condition of the fluid in it? If it looks pretty decent, you might be ok changing the fluid.

If it looks really dark and smells bad, you’re probably on borrowed time and changing the fluid will only accelerate the time when it fails.

I would make sure you have the money saved up for a replacement transmission and roll the dice on giving it a fluid change. You might be ok. If it seems to take it ok after driving it some. Do another change. If all continues to go well, go for a third and change the filter if it has one. The third fluid change will make sure the majority of the old crap is out of the transmission since just dropping the pan and refilling the transmission only replaces about half of the fluid in it. Prepare for the worst and hope for the best.

 

[RonD]

Change filter and fluid if you have no history for service
Same for differential fluid, coolant and engine oil/filter

Not sure where the MYTH of servicing anything can cause an issue, it can't, issue was already there if a problem comes up

 

[Ltcjc754]

Thanks for the input, I'll give it a try and pray for the best, but be prepared for the worst.