2013 Explorer Transmission Fluid Check

Alright folks, let's talk about something that might not be as exciting as, say, a rollercoaster ride, but is just as crucial for a smooth journey: your 2013 Ford Explorer's transmission fluid. Ever thought about what that stuff actually *does*? It's the unsung hero under the hood, keeping all those gears shifting nicely and preventing your engine from sounding like a bag of angry squirrels fighting over a nut.

Why Bother Checking Your Transmission Fluid Anyway?

Think of transmission fluid as the lifeblood of your transmission. It's not just some liquid sloshing around; it's a sophisticated lubricant that:

Reduces Friction: Imagine trying to rub two pieces of metal together without oil. Ouch! The fluid creates a barrier, preventing wear and tear.
Cools Components: All that spinning and meshing generates heat. The fluid carries heat away, preventing overheating and potential damage.
Transmits Hydraulic Pressure: This is the fancy part. The fluid actually helps the transmission shift gears! It's like the hydraulic system in a construction crane, but on a smaller, faster scale.
Cleans: Tiny particles can accumulate over time. The fluid suspends these contaminants and carries them to the filter, keeping things clean and efficient.

So, if your transmission fluid is low, dirty, or just plain old, things can go south *fast*. We're talking rough shifting, slipping gears, overheating, and eventually, a costly transmission repair or replacement. No one wants that, right?

Is My 2013 Explorer Different? The Mystery of the Sealed Transmission.

Here's where things get a little… nuanced. You see, your 2013 Explorer might have what's often described as a "sealed" transmission. Now, don't let that word scare you. It doesn't mean you *can't* check the fluid, but it *does* mean the process might not be as straightforward as it was in older cars with a dipstick conveniently poking out. Think of it like this: it's like having a fancy, high-tech thermos instead of a regular water bottle. Both hold liquid, but the thermos has a more complex design.

The "sealed" part refers to the fact that there's no traditional dipstick tube for checking the fluid level. Instead, there's a fill plug located on the side of the transmission. To check the fluid, you essentially need to access this plug and see if fluid spills out when the engine is running and warmed up. If it does, great! The level is (probably) correct. If not, it might need topping off.

But Why Seal It?

Good question! The idea behind these sealed transmissions is to reduce maintenance. The theory is that the fluid is designed to last the lifetime of the transmission under normal driving conditions. However, "normal" driving is a pretty subjective term, isn't it? If you're towing heavy loads, doing a lot of stop-and-go driving, or living in a hot climate, your transmission is working harder, and the fluid will degrade faster. So, even with a "sealed" transmission, checking the fluid is a good idea, especially as your Explorer ages.

How to Check Your 2013 Explorer's Transmission Fluid (The "Slightly More Involved" Method)

Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. This isn't something you should attempt without a bit of knowledge and the right tools. If you're not comfortable working under your car, *please* take it to a qualified mechanic. Safety first!

Here's a general outline. Keep in mind that this is not a substitute for the service manual, and procedures can vary slightly depending on the specific transmission in your Explorer.

Gather Your Supplies: You'll need:
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
- A socket set (metric)
- A wrench (specific size depends on the plug)
- A fluid pump (for adding fluid if needed)
- A drain pan
- Transmission fluid (Mercon LV, specifically!)
- Jack stands and a jack (for safely lifting the car)
- Wheel chocks
Safety First: Chock the rear wheels. Engage the parking brake. Jack up the front of the car and securely support it with jack stands. *Never* work under a car supported only by a jack.
Locate the Fill Plug: This is usually on the side of the transmission. Consult your service manual or a reliable online resource to pinpoint its exact location. It might be a plastic or metal plug.
Warm Up the Engine: Run the engine until it reaches operating temperature. This ensures the fluid is at the correct viscosity for an accurate reading.
Remove the Fill Plug: Carefully remove the fill plug. Be prepared for a small amount of fluid to spill out.
Check the Fluid Level: With the engine running, fluid should be dripping or trickling out of the fill plug hole. If it's not, the fluid level is low.
Add Fluid (If Needed): If the fluid is low, use a fluid pump to add Mercon LV transmission fluid until it starts to drip out of the fill plug hole.
Replace the Fill Plug: Securely tighten the fill plug.
Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground.
Double-Check: After a short drive, recheck the fluid level to ensure it's still correct.

What About the Color and Smell?

The color and smell of your transmission fluid can also tell you a lot.

Healthy Fluid: Should be a clear, reddish color.
Dark Brown or Black Fluid: Indicates the fluid is old, oxidized, and likely contaminated. Time for a fluid change!
Burnt Smell: A burnt smell is a serious sign of overheating and potential transmission damage. Get it checked out ASAP!

When Should I Change My Transmission Fluid?

Even with a "sealed" transmission, changing the fluid is a good idea. Ford's recommended interval varies, but many experts suggest changing it every 50,000 to 100,000 miles, or sooner if you do a lot of heavy-duty driving. Think of it like changing the oil in your engine – it's preventative maintenance that can save you a lot of money in the long run.

Checking your 2013 Explorer's transmission fluid might not be the most glamorous task, but it's a vital part of keeping your vehicle running smoothly and avoiding expensive repairs. So, do your research, gather your supplies (or find a trusted mechanic), and give your transmission some love! Your Explorer will thank you for it.

And hey, while you're at it, why not check your power steering fluid and brake fluid too? Making sure all your fluids are in good shape is like giving your car a full spa day. Happy driving!