Drain and replace automatic transmission fluid and filter to maintain transmission performance and longevity.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Automatic transmission filter × 1 — Motorcraft FT-184 or equivalent
• Transmission pan gasket × 1 — Motorcraft RG-5C152-AA or equivalent
• Transmission pan bolts (if reusing is not recommended) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Motorcraft MERCON LV ATF — 11 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and allow transmission to cool completely
2. Engage parking brake and place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Raise front of vehicle with floor jack and support securely on jack stands at manufacturer-recommended lift points
4. Verify vehicle is stable before working underneath
5. Place drain pan underneath transmission pan location

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate transmission pan and clean area
   Locate the transmission pan on the underside of the 6R80 automatic transmission. Clean the area around the pan perimeter with shop towels to prevent debris from falling into the transmission during service.
2. 2

   Loosen pan bolts gradually
   Begin loosening all transmission pan bolts gradually, working in a crisscross pattern. Loosen bolts at one corner slightly more than others to allow fluid to drain from that corner first. Keep hands clear as fluid will begin draining once bolts are loosened sufficiently.
   ⚠Fluid will drain rapidly once pan seal breaks. Ensure drain pan is properly positioned.
3. 3

   Remove pan and drain fluid
   Once fluid flow has slowed, remove all pan bolts completely and carefully lower the transmission pan. Tilt pan to drain remaining fluid into drain pan. Set pan aside on shop towels.
4. 4

   Remove old transmission filter
   Locate the transmission filter attached to the valve body inside the transmission. Remove the filter by pulling it straight down from its mounting position. Some fluid will drain from the filter; allow it to drain into the pan.
5. 5

   Clean transmission pan and magnet
   Thoroughly clean the inside of the transmission pan, paying special attention to the magnetic drain plug. Remove all gasket material from the pan sealing surface using a plastic scraper. Inspect pan for metal shavings or debris; a small amount of fine material on the magnet is normal, but excessive debris may indicate internal wear.
   ℹ️Do not use abrasive pads or tools that could damage the pan sealing surface.
6. 6

   Clean transmission mating surface
   Clean the transmission case mating surface where the pan gasket seals. Remove all old gasket material and ensure surface is completely clean and dry. Inspect for damage or warping.
7. 7

   Install new transmission filter
   Install the new transmission filter by pushing it straight up into the valve body until it seats completely. Ensure the filter seal is properly positioned and the filter is secure.
8. 8

   Install new pan gasket and pan
   Position the new gasket on the transmission pan, aligning all bolt holes. Carefully lift the pan into position against the transmission case, ensuring the gasket remains properly aligned. Start all pan bolts by hand to prevent cross-threading.
9. 9

   Torque pan bolts to specification
   Torque all transmission pan bolts in a crisscross pattern to the specified torque. Work gradually, making multiple passes to bring all bolts up to final torque evenly.
   ⚠Over-torquing pan bolts can warp the pan and cause leaks. Use a torque wrench and follow crisscross pattern.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts34 Nm (25 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Lower vehicle and add transmission fluid
    Lower vehicle from jack stands. Locate the transmission dipstick tube on the passenger side of the engine bay. Insert funnel with flexible spout into dipstick tube. Add approximately 5 quarts of Motorcraft MERCON LV ATF initially.
11. 11

    Start engine and circulate fluid
    Start the engine and allow it to idle. With the brake pedal depressed, shift through all gear positions (P-R-N-D-L) pausing 2-3 seconds in each position. Return to Park. This circulates fluid through the transmission and torque converter.
12. 12

    Check fluid level and adjust
    With engine running at idle and transmission in Park, check the transmission fluid level using the dipstick. Fluid should be in the operating range when warm. Add additional fluid as needed in 1/2 quart increments until proper level is reached. Do not overfill.
    ℹ️Transmission fluid expands when hot. Final level should be checked after transmission reaches operating temperature (approximately 180-200°F).

Reassembly

1. Verify transmission pan is not leaking after initial startup
2. Re-torque pan bolts after test drive if necessary
3. Clean any spilled transmission fluid from undercarriage and engine bay

Verification

• Check transmission fluid level again after vehicle reaches operating temperature
• Inspect transmission pan for leaks while engine is running
• Test drive vehicle through all gears to verify smooth shifting
• Re-check fluid level after test drive and top off if needed
• Inspect pan area again for leaks after test drive

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