Q: How to drain and replace transmission fluid and Automatic Transmission Filter at specified time intervals?
A: At the specified time intervals, the transmission fluid should be drained and replaced. Since the fluid will remain hot long after driving, perform this procedure only after the engine has cooled down completely. Before beginning work, purchase the specified transmission fluid and a new filter. Other tools necessary for this job include jack stands to support the vehicle in a raised position, a drain pan capable of holding at least eight pints, newspapers and clean rags. Raise the vehicle and support it securely on jack stands. With a drain pan in place, remove the front and side pan mounting bolts. Note: 2007 through 2011 models have one bolt that is coated with adhesive sealant. Loosen the rear pan bolts approximately one turn. If the pan does not loosen and fluid does not begin to drain, carefully pry the transmission pan loose with a putty knife. Remove the remaining bolts, pan and gasket. Carefully clean the gasket surface of the transmission to remove all traces of the old gasket and sealant. Drain the fluid from the transmission pan, clean it with solvent and dry it with compressed air. Remove the filter from the transmission valve body. With the vehicle raised and the pan off, this is a good time to adjust the transmission bands. Install a new filter and 0-ring. Make sure the gasket surface on the transmission pan is clean, then install a new gasket. Put the pan in place against the transmission and, working around the pan, tighten each bolt a little at a time until the final torque figure is reached. On 2007 through 2011 models, clean the adhesive-coated bolt and apply new adhesive sealant. Lower the vehicle and add the specified amount of automatic transmission fluid through the filler tube. With the transmission in Park and the parking brake set, run the engine at a fast idle, but don't race it. Move the gear selector through each range and back to Neutral. Check the fluid level. Check under the vehicle for leaks during the first few trips.