SPONSORED LINKS

Adding transmission fluid

Tiny
PLUXO
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 FORD WINDSTAR
  • 3.8L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 192,000 MILES
So earlier I was getting acceleration problems. I checked my coolant, oil level (a bit low), transmission fluid (cold), power steering, and all my fuses. I got done driving and decided to check it and my transmission fluid looked like it could be low. Driving home was rough, felt like it could not climb any hills, was worrying that maybe I am blowing the transmission.

Question: I do not want to start my car if there is no transmission fluid in it. Can I add some to it cold?

Bonus question: Would it be smart to add a bit of Lucas fuel injection cleaner to my gas tank?
SPONSORED LINKS
Saturday, October 28th, 2017 AT 9:37 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 13,443 POSTS
You can add fluid anytime, with it cool/cold is actually better as you get a true reading. With it on a level surface, start the engine, pull the dipstick and see where the level is. If it is low add some, be sure to use the proper fluid, Mercon V. Just starting the engine will not hurt the transmission unless it was completely empty. If you drove it, it cannot be empty.

I use Lucas or SeaFoam cleaner all the time, never had an issue yet.
SPONSORED LINKS
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
+1
Sunday, October 29th, 2017 AT 1:45 AM
Tiny
PLUXO
  • MEMBER
  • 71 POSTS
You are the best! Thank you very much. I will be adding the transmission fluid when I get home (Mercon V), some 5W-20 Oil, and the Lucas cleaner. Thank you once again.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Sunday, October 29th, 2017 AT 2:58 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 47,513 POSTS
Steve is the man!

Please use 2CarPros anytime, we are here to help. Please tell a friend.

Cheers, Ken
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Monday, October 30th, 2017 AT 2:02 PM

Please login or register to post a reply.

Related Transmission Fluid Add Fluid Content

Transmission Fluid Check and Add - Automatic
GUIDE
Transmission Fluid Check and Add - Automatic
An automatic transmission or transaxle fluid dipstick handle is located toward the rear of the engine or near the transaxle. Checking and adding automatic transmissions ...
VIEW MORE

Sponsored links