Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Leakage Inspection: Material
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Dye-Lite® ATF/Power Steering Fluid Leak Detection Dye 164-R3701 (Rotunda) |
- |
| Motorcraft® MERCON® LV Automatic Transmission Fluid XT-10-QLV |
MERCON® LV |
Leakage at the transaxle main control cover-to-transaxle often can be stopped by tightening the attaching bolts to 12 Nm (106 lb-in). If necessary, remove the main control cover and inspect for damage. Refer to MAIN CONTROL COVER .
Check the transaxle filler tube connection at the transmission case. If leakage is found here, install a new grommet.
Check the transmission fluid cooler tubes and fittings between the transmission and the cooler in the radiator tank for wear or damage. When transmission fluid is found leaking between the case and the transmission fluid cooler tube fitting, check for a missing or damaged O-ring, then tighten the fitting to torque specification.
If the leak continues, install a new transmission fluid cooler tube fitting and tighten to the correct torque specification. The same procedure should be followed for transmission fluid leaks between the radiator cooler and the transmission fluid cooler tube fittings. Refer to TRANSAXLE/TRANSMISSION COOLING - 6F35 .
Check the engine coolant in the radiator. If the transmission fluid is present in the coolant, the cooler in the radiator is probably leaking. The cooler can be further checked for leaks by disconnecting the transmission fluid cooler tubes from the cooler fittings and applying no more than 345 kPa (50 psi) air pressure to the fittings. Remove the coolant recovery cap to relieve the pressure buildup at the exterior of the transmission fluid cooler tank. If the cooler is leaking and/or will not hold pressure, install a new cooler.
If transmission fluid leakage is found at the transaxle range selector lever, install a new seal.
If transmission fluid leakage is found at the transaxle internal harness connector, install a new O-ring.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.