1998 Ford Explorer Need transmission fluid?

1998 FORD EXPLORER
66,500 MILES • 6 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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JOEMAT
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I just purchased this vehicle with 66,500 miles on it. I hired a lemon detector company to check it out for me and they found no issues at all (except the need to break pads and tired withing the next 5000 miles or so). This vehichle seems super clean. i have dealer service records up to 2006. one owner.

They recommended an oil/filter change and transmission oil/filter change.

I took it to a lube joint who changed the oil/filter and flushed the engine. They told me they could not change the transmission fluid as it sat behind the muffler. is this the case? Also, do i NEED to change the transmission fluid? How can I tell if it needs changing and do I need to have it dealer serviced or will local mechanic do?

thanks!
Jul 14, 2008 at 1:01 PM
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2CARPRO JACK
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Usually you woul dgo by mileage or by how it is used. Towing requires more servicing to keep the fluid good. Sounds as though they are just a little lazy as far as the service goes. The dealer will service it for you, they know what to expect for the vehicles they sell
Jul 14, 2008 at 1:17 PM
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JOEMAT
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[quote:f951e77ad3="2CarPro Jack"]Usually you woul dgo by mileage or by how it is used. Towing requires more servicing to keep the fluid good. Sounds as though they are just a little lazy as far as the service goes. The dealer will service it for you, they know what to expect for the vehicles they sell[/quote:f951e77ad3]

thanks. the vehicle was not used for any towing. Is there a way for me to tell if the fluid needs changing? color/oder or anything like that? the owner did about 6000 per year year in milage.

i'm reluctant to have anyone touch the transmission as i've heard horror stories about it. also, if it changing is in fact recommended, should it be flushed?

thanks again
Jul 14, 2008 at 1:27 PM
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2CARPRO JACK
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Color should be red, if dark or smells burnt it needs to be done.I personally dont believe in flushing a trans, causes other problems in my experience
Jul 14, 2008 at 1:39 PM