Maintaining your vehicle’s transmission fluid is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. If you own a 2008 or 2009 Ford Edge, it’s recommended to periodically replace the transmission fluid to keep your car running smoothly. By following a few simple steps, you can accomplish this task with ease and ensure the continued health of your vehicle’s vital components.
Before starting the transmission fluid change process, gather the necessary tools and materials. You’ll need a new transmission filter, transmission fluid, a drain pan, a funnel, a torque wrench, and a pair of gloves. Additionally, it’s advisable to wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from splashes. Once you have the necessary equipment, locate the transmission drain plug, which is usually at the bottom of the transmission pan, and the transmission dipstick, which is typically found near the engine. To drain the old fluid, carefully remove the drain plug and allow it to drain completely into the drain pan.
After draining the old fluid, replace the drain plug and tighten it to the specified torque. Next, locate the transmission filter and remove the bolts holding it in place. Install the new transmission filter and tighten the bolts. Now, add the new transmission fluid through the dipstick tube using a funnel. Check the fluid level on the dipstick and add more fluid as needed until it reaches the correct mark. Finally, start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes, shifting through the gears to circulate the new fluid. Recheck the fluid level and adjust as necessary.
Gather Materials and Prepare Vehicle
Materials Required:
Before initiating the transmission fluid change, it is crucial to assemble the necessary materials. Ensure you have the following items:
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Transmission Fluid | Ford Mercon LV (approx. 5 quarts) |
| Transmission Filter | Ford OEM or equivalent |
| Transmission Pan Gasket | Ford OEM or equivalent |
| Drain Pan | Large enough to hold at least 5 quarts of fluid |
| Funnel | For pouring new transmission fluid |
| Torque Wrench | For tightening drain plug and filter bolts |
| 10mm Socket or Wrench | For removing drain plug and filter bolts |
| Safety Gloves | To protect hands from hot fluid |
| Rags or Towels | For cleaning up spills |
Vehicle Preparation:
Once you have gathered the required materials, prepare the vehicle for the fluid change. Follow these steps:
- Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Open the hood and locate the transmission fluid dipstick.
- Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean with a rag.
- Reinsert the dipstick and pull it out again to check the fluid level.
- If the fluid is at or below the “MIN” mark, it needs to be changed.
Locate the Transmission Fluid Pan
Once you’ve gathered the necessary materials, it’s time to locate the transmission fluid pan. It’s typically found at the bottom of the transmission, and it serves as a reservoir for the fluid. Here’s how to find it:
- Park your car on a flat surface. If possible, elevate the front end of your car using ramps or jack stands to provide better access to the transmission fluid pan.
- Identify the transmission. It’s usually located at the front of the engine and is connected to the driveshaft. The transmission casing is typically made of metal and is bolted to the engine.
- Look for the transmission fluid pan. It’s a metal pan attached to the bottom of the transmission. It usually has a square or rectangular shape and is held in place by bolts or screws.
Here’s a tip: The transmission fluid pan is often stamped with the transmission model or type. This information can be useful if you need to purchase a replacement pan or filter.
Locate the Drain Plug
Under the vehicle, locate the transmission drain plug. It is typically a black or silver bolt located on the bottom of the transmission pan.
Gather Tools
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Drain the Fluid
Position the drain pan under the drain plug. Using a 17mm socket wrench, carefully loosen the drain plug and allow the old transmission fluid to drain into the pan. Be cautious as the fluid may be hot.
Once the fluid has stopped draining, tighten the drain plug securely.
If you are changing the transmission filter, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to remove the old filter and install the new one.
Check the transmission fluid level and add new fluid as needed until it reaches the recommended level on the dipstick.
Drain the Old Fluid
1. Safety First
Park your Ford Edge on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Let the engine cool down to avoid any burns.
2. Locate the Drain Plug
Crawl under the front of your vehicle and locate the transmission pan. It’s usually a large metal pan located at the bottom of the transmission. Identify the drain plug, which is typically a 17mm or 19mm bolt.
3. Prepare to Drain the Fluid
Place a large drain pan underneath the transmission pan to catch the old fluid. Ensure the drain pan is positioned to avoid any spills. Loosen the drain plug slightly, allowing the fluid to start draining.
4. Complete Fluid Drainage
Allow approximately 10-15 minutes for the majority of the old transmission fluid to drain out. As the flow slows, tighten the drain plug back into place. Clean the drain plug and the surrounding area thoroughly to prevent any leaks.
Note: The amount of fluid drained may vary depending on the vehicle’s model and transmission type. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific fluid capacities.
Clean the Drain Plug and Pan
After draining the transmission fluid, it’s time to clean the drain plug and pan. Start by wiping away any excess fluid with a clean rag. Then, inspect the drain plug for any signs of damage or wear. If the plug is damaged, it will need to be replaced. Next, use a brush to remove any debris from the pan and magnet. The magnet is designed to attract metal filings, so it’s important to clean it regularly to prevent them from circulating in the transmission fluid and causing damage.
Once the pan and drain plug are clean, it’s time to reinstall them. First, apply a thin layer of gasket maker to the drain plug and reinstall it in the pan. Tighten the plug to the manufacturer’s specifications (typically around 25-30 foot-pounds). Next, reinstall the pan, making sure to align it properly and tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications (typically around 10-12 foot-pounds).
Inspect the Transmission Filter
While you have the transmission pan off, it’s a good time to inspect the transmission filter. If the filter is dirty or clogged, it can restrict the flow of transmission fluid and cause damage to the transmission. To remove the filter, simply unclip it from the valve body. Inspect the filter for any signs of damage or wear. If the filter is damaged, it will need to be replaced. To reinstall the filter, simply clip it back into place on the valve body.
Install the New Filter (if applicable)
If your transmission filter is located inside the transmission pan, you can change it when you change the fluid. It’s a simple process:
- Locate the filter in the transmission pan.
- Remove the old filter and discard it.
- Install the new filter into the transmission pan.
- Bolt the transmission pan back onto the transmission.
If your transmission filter is located outside the transmission pan, you will need to follow specific instructions for your vehicle to access and change it. Consult your vehicle’s manual or an online forum for detailed steps.
Here are some additional tips for installing a new transmission filter:
- Make sure the new filter is the correct type and size for your vehicle.
- Apply a thin layer of transmission fluid to the gasket of the new filter.
- Tighten the transmission pan bolts to the specified torque.
- Start the engine and check for leaks.
| Tools You’ll Need |
|---|
| Wrench or socket set |
| New transmission fluid |
| New transmission filter (if applicable) |
| Clean rags |
Replace the Drain Plug
7. Carefully hand-tighten the drain plug back into the transmission pan until it is snug. Use a torque wrench to further tighten the drain plug to the specified torque, typically between 25 and 30 foot-pounds (34 and 40 newton-meters). This ensures that the drain plug is securely fastened and will not leak.
| Transmission Type | Drain Plug Torque |
|---|---|
| 4-Speed Automatic (4F50N) | 25 ft-lbs (34 Nm) |
| 4-Speed Automatic (4F27E) | 30 ft-lbs (40 Nm) |
| 6-Speed Automatic (6F50) | 30 ft-lbs (40 Nm) |
Overtightening the drain plug can damage the threads or the transmission pan. If you don’t have a torque wrench, use a new drain plug and washer to ensure a proper seal.
Add the New Fluid
The final step is to add the new fluid to the transmission. Use a funnel to pour the fluid into the dipstick tube. Add the fluid slowly, checking the dipstick regularly to ensure you don’t overfill the transmission.
Once you’ve added the correct amount of fluid, replace the dipstick and tighten it securely. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new fluid. Then, shift through all the gears to ensure the fluid is flowing properly.
Additional Tips for Adding the New Fluid
Here are some additional tips for adding the new fluid:
- Use the correct type of fluid for your transmission. Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended fluid type.
- Make sure the funnel is clean before using it.
- Add the fluid slowly and check the dipstick regularly to ensure you don’t overfill the transmission.
- Once you’ve added the correct amount of fluid, replace the dipstick and tighten it securely.
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new fluid.
- Shift through all the gears to ensure the fluid is flowing properly.
| Tools and Materials | Quantity |
|---|---|
| New transmission fluid | 4-6 quarts |
| Funnel | 1 |
Check the Fluid Level
Checking the transmission fluid level is an essential step in maintaining your 2008-2009 Ford Edge. Here’s a detailed guide to help you do it correctly:
- Park the vehicle on a level surface. This will ensure an accurate fluid level reading.
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. This will circulate the fluid and warm it to its proper operating temperature.
- Shift through all the gears. This will help the fluid flow through all the components of the transmission.
- Locate the transmission dipstick. It is typically located near the top of the transmission, either on the passenger or driver’s side of the engine.
- Pull out the dipstick and wipe off any fluid using a clean cloth.
- Reinsert the dipstick all the way into the transmission.
- Pull out the dipstick again and check the fluid level.
- The fluid level should be between the "min" and "max" marks on the dipstick. If the fluid is below the "min" mark, it needs to be added.
- If the fluid is below the "min" mark, add fluid using a funnel and a clean container. Use only the type of fluid recommended by the manufacturer. Refer to the owner’s manual for the specific type and amount of fluid required.
**Additional Notes:**
| Fluid Level Indicator | Action |
|---|---|
| Fluid is below the “min” mark | Add fluid |
| Fluid is between the “min” and “max” marks | No action needed |
| Fluid is above the “max” mark | Drain excess fluid |
Avoid overfilling the transmission, as this can cause issues with the shifting and lubrication of the transmission components.
Finalize the Maintenance
10. **Double-Check Fluid Level and Reinstall Drain Plug**
With the engine still running, check the transmission fluid level using the dipstick. The fluid level should be between the “HOT” and “COLD” marks on the dipstick. If the fluid level is low, add more fluid through the dipstick tube until it reaches the correct level.
Once the fluid level is correct, reinstall the drain plug and tighten it to the specified torque.
Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new fluid.
Check for leaks around the drain plug and filter. If there are no leaks, your transmission fluid change is complete.
Reset the transmission adaptive learning system by disconnecting the battery for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the transmission to relearn the shift patterns and optimize its performance.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Double-check the transmission fluid level using the dipstick |
| 2 | Add more fluid if necessary |
| 3 | Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it to the specified torque |
| 4 | Reconnect the negative battery terminal |
| 5 | Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes |
| 6 | Check for leaks around the drain plug and filter |
| 7 | Reset the transmission adaptive learning system by disconnecting the battery for at least 30 minutes |
How to Change Transmission Fluid in a 2009-2008 Ford Edge
Regular transmission fluid changes are crucial for maintaining the health and longevity of your Ford Edge’s transmission. This guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to perform a transmission fluid change in your 2009-2008 Ford Edge.
Materials and Tools Required:
- New Transmission Fluid (Mercon LV or equivalent)
- Drain Pan
- Funnel
- 3/8-inch Socket Wrench
- 1/2-inch Socket Wrench
- Torque Wrench
- Rags
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Safety First: Park your Ford Edge on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Allow the engine to cool completely.
- Locate the Drain Plug: Crawl under the vehicle and locate the transmission oil pan. The drain plug is typically located at the bottom of the pan.
- Drain the Old Fluid: Place the drain pan under the drain plug and loosen it using the 3/8-inch socket wrench. Allow the old fluid to drain completely into the pan.
- Replace the Drain Plug: Once the old fluid is drained, clean the drain plug and apply a new washer. Tighten the drain plug using the torque wrench to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Locate the Fill Plug: The fill plug is typically located on the side of the transmission housing.
- Fill the Transmission: Using the funnel, pour the new transmission fluid into the fill plug until it starts to overflow.
- Check the Level: Start the engine and run it in park. Use the dipstick to check the fluid level. Add more fluid as needed until the level is between the "cold" and "hot" marks on the dipstick.
- Tighten the Fill Plug: Once the fluid level is correct, tighten the fill plug using the torque wrench to the manufacturer’s specifications.
People Also Ask About How to Change Transmission Fluid in 2009-2008 Ford Edge
How often should I change the transmission fluid in my 2009-2008 Ford Edge?
Ford recommends changing the transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions.
What is the best type of transmission fluid for my 2009-2008 Ford Edge?
The recommended transmission fluid for a 2009-2008 Ford Edge is Mercon LV.
Can I change the transmission fluid myself?
Yes, it is possible to change the transmission fluid yourself with basic tools and knowledge. However, if you are not comfortable with this task, it is recommended to seek professional assistance.
