Transmission fluid question

[RickyMKC]

Good evening! Just bought my first Lincoln! Its a 2016 2.0 MKC with almost 70K
The car fax shows a pretty well maintenance schedule for engine oil however does not
show tranny fluid change. So is it safe to change it now with 70k?
According to manual its every 30k what do you guys think?

 

[bbf2530]

Good evening! Just bought my first Lincoln! Its a 2016 2.0 MKC with almost 70K
The car fax shows a pretty well maintenance schedule for engine oil however does not
show tranny fluid change. So is it safe to change it now with 70k?
According to manual its every 30k what do you guys think?

Hi RickyMKC and welcome to the Lincoln Forums.

First…Yes, it is safe to change the transmission fluid at ~70,000 miles.

Next…why are you under the assumption Lincoln/Ford recommend 30,000 mile transmission fluid changes?
Do you routinely/often use your Corsair to tow or for other Severe duty types of driving? When being used for that type of driving is when Lincoln/Ford recommend 30,000 miles transmission fluid changes.

Otherwise, if you don’t tow or use your vwhicle in other Severe Duty driving, the Lincoln/Ford recommendation is 150,000 miles.

That being said, I would not recommend 150,000 mile intervals. Personally, I’d recommend perhaps every 50,000 miles if you’d like to be extra cautious. Otherwise, somewhere between 50,000-75,000 is a good interval.

Or, change at 30,000 miles if you’d like.

However, the Owners Manual Maintenance Schedule only requires 30,000 mile intervals for those Severe Duty types of driving, as described in that same Maintenance Schedule.

I’m sure others will also jump in to help, so keep us updated and good luck with whatever you decide to do.

 

[RickyMKC]

Hi RickyMKC and welcome to the Lincoln Forums.

First…Yes, it is safe to change the transmission fluid at ~70,000 miles.

Next…why are you under the assumption Lincoln/Ford recommend 30,000 mile transmission fluid changes?
Do you routinely/often use your Corsair to tow or for other Severe duty types of driving? When being used for that type of driving is when Lincoln /Ford recommend 30,000 miles transmission fluid changes.

Otherwise, if you don’t tow or use your vwhicle in other Severe Duty driving, the Lincoln/Ford recommendation is 150,000 miles.

That being said, I would not recommend 150,000 mile intervals. Personally, I’d recommend perhaps every 50,000 miles if you’d like to be extra cautious. Otherwise, somewhere between 50,000-75,000 is a good interval.

Or, change at 30,000 miles if you’d like wish.

However, the Owners Manual Maintenance Schedule only requires 30,000 mile intervals for those Severe Duty types of driving, as described in that same Maintenance Schedule.

I’m sure others will also jump in to help, so keep us updated and good luck with whatever you decide to do.

Thank you sir! Just thought that living in mid FL with this heat all year would make it fall in the 30k category but I think your recommendation of 50 is good!
I'll be doing that job myself in the coming days and let you know! thanks again for your input!

 

[RickyMKC]

Hi RickyMKC and welcome to the Lincoln Forums.

First…Yes, it is safe to change the transmission fluid at ~70,000 miles.

Next…why are you under the assumption Lincoln/Ford recommend 30,000 mile transmission fluid changes?
Do you routinely/often use your Corsair to tow or for other Severe duty types of driving? When being used for that type of driving is when Lincoln /Ford recommend 30,000 miles transmission fluid changes.

Otherwise, if you don’t tow or use your vwhicle in other Severe Duty driving, the Lincoln/Ford recommendation is 150,000 miles.

That being said, I would not recommend 150,000 mile intervals. Personally, I’d recommend perhaps every 50,000 miles if you’d like to be extra cautious. Otherwise, somewhere between 50,000-75,000 is a good interval.

Or, change at 30,000 miles if you’d like wish.

However, the Owners Manual Maintenance Schedule only requires 30,000 mile intervals for those Severe Duty types of driving, as described in that same Maintenance Schedule.

I’m sure others will also jump in to help, so keep us updated and good luck with whatever you decide to do.

Forgot to ask if there's any tutorial video for this job I would greatly appreciate any direction.

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[bbf2530]

Forgot to ask if there's any tutorial video for this job I would greatly appreciate any direction.

Hi RickyMKC. You are very welcome!

Unfortunately…while they probably exist, I can’t recommend any tutorial videos, as I’ve never looked for one for the MKC. Perhaps another member can recommend tutorial videos for the 2016 MKC.

Okay, personal opinion here:
Unless you have a shop quality fluid exchange/flush machine, the usual way for a DIY transmission fluid change nowadays (with essentially sealed units), is the multiple drain (via drain plug if available or suction device), then drive and refill multiple times method. There’s no other simple way to get all the fluid out of the transmission casing, torque converter etc. In my experience, it is a rather inefficient method.

Therefore, my preference and recommendation would be to have the fluid exchanged/flushed by either a Lincoln/Ford Dealership, or an independent shop you trust.

Lincoln/Ford periodically offer coupons for this type of service. So do individual dealerships on their websites. And shop around, since pricing varies by dealership.

And I forgot to mention earlier…while you are at it, change the PTU/RDU fluids (if applicable). While they are considered and listed as “Lifetime” fluids by Lincoln/Ford (and many other auto manufacturers), anyone who cares about their vehicle would not consider that to be correct.
Again, every 50,000-75,000 miles, according to to how careful/proactive you wish to be.
Or 30,000 miles if you routinely tow or drive under other “Severe Duty” types of situations.

Keep us updated and good luck.

 

[RickyMKC]

How crucial is it to stick with Motorcraft LV for this job? I see other fluids that claim compatibility.
any opinions base on experience?

 

[RickyMKC]

OK, let me just lay it out! I bought my 2016 MKC 2.0 FWD
A week ago when I test drove it, it felt beautiful so I negotiated and bought it. Problem is that during this week I have felt at least five times a sort of kick in the tranny and this happens when I’m going 20 to 30 miles and I have to release the gas pedal but not to stop. Since I bought it as is, I guess it falls on me! The test drive wasn’t even half a mile, but you know how it is. You have the salesman in the car with you. I guess I have no excuse at this point. Other than that kick only once in a while, transmission shifts beautifully down and up that’s why I want to see if the fluid is right and since it’s a hair from 70,000 miles and the Carfax does not state transmission service I’ll do a simple fluid change that way I check the condition. Worst case scenario has maybe a solenoid going bad I’ve already replace several of those in other cars I’ve owned. It just sucks having to deal with this a week from buying however, used cars are always a gamble. So other than repeating how dumb I could be, are there any wisdom, words of encouragement and or guidance?

 

[RickyMKC]

Hi RickyMKC. You are very welcome!

Unfortunately…while they probably exist, I can’t recommend any tutorial videos, as I’ve never looked for one for the MKC. Perhaps another member can recommend tutorial videos for the 2016 MKC.

Okay, personal opinion here:
Unless you have a shop quality fluid exchange/flush machine, the usual way for a DIY transmission fluid change nowadays (with essentially sealed units), is the multiple drain (via drain plug if available or suction device), then drive and refill multiple times method. There’s no other simple way to get all the fluid out of the transmission casing, torque converter etc. In my experience, it is a rather inefficient method.

Therefore, my preference and recommendation would be to have the fluid exchanged/flushed by either a Lincoln/Ford Dealership, or an independent shop you trust.

Lincoln/Ford periodically offer coupons for this type of service. So do individual dealerships on their websites. And shop around, since pricing varies by dealership.

And I forgot to mention earlier…while you are at it, change the PTU/RDU fluids (if applicable). While they are considered and listed as “Lifetime” fluids by Lincoln/Ford (and many other auto manufacturers), anyone who cares about their vehicle would not consider that to be correct.
Again, every 50,000-75,000 miles, according to to how careful/proactive you wish to be.
Or 30,000 miles if you routinely tow or drive under other “Severe Duty” types of situations.

Keep us updated and good luck.

OK, let me just lay it out! I bought my 2016 MKC 2.0 FWD
A week ago when I test drove it, it felt beautiful so I negotiated and bought it. Problem is that during this week I have felt at least five times a sort of kick in the tranny and this happens when I’m going 20 to 30 miles and I have to release the gas pedal but not to stop. Since I bought it as is, I guess it falls on me! The test drive wasn’t even half a mile, but you know how it is. You have the salesman in the car with you. I guess I have no excuse at this point. Other than that kick only once in a while, transmission shifts beautifully down and up that’s why I want to see if the fluid is right and since it’s a hair from 70,000 miles and the Carfax does not state transmission service I’ll do a simple fluid change that way I check the condition. Worst case scenario has maybe a solenoid going bad I’ve already replace several of those in other cars I’ve owned. It just sucks having to deal with this a week from buying however, used cars are always a gamble. So other than repeating how dumb I could be, are there any wisdom, words of encouragement and or guidance?

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[bbf2530]

OK, let me just lay it out! I bought my 2016 MKC 2.0 FWD
A week ago when I test drove it, it felt beautiful so I negotiated and bought it. Problem is that during this week I have felt at least five times a sort of kick in the tranny and this happens when I’m going 20 to 30 miles and I have to release the gas pedal but not to stop. Since I bought it as is, I guess it falls on me! The test drive wasn’t even half a mile, but you know how it is. You have the salesman in the car with you. I guess I have no excuse at this point. Other than that kick only once in a while, transmission shifts beautifully down and up that’s why I want to see if the fluid is right and since it’s a hair from 70,000 miles and the Carfax does not state transmission service I’ll do a simple fluid change that way I check the condition. Worst case scenario has maybe a solenoid going bad I’ve already replace several of those in other cars I’ve owned. It just sucks having to deal with this a week from buying however, used cars are always a gamble. So other than repeating how dumb I could be, are there any wisdom, words of encouragement and or guidance?

Hi RickyMKC. My opinion/experience concerning what trans fluid specification to use:
I would highly advise against using a fluid which merely states it is “compatible with” the required specification. “Compatible with” is not the same.

Fill with the precise specification listed in your Owners Manual. You can download the PDF version here (if you were not provided the hard copy)- https://www.lincoln.com/support/owner-manuals/

In the Maintenance and Specifications section, there will be a chart listing all fluids and the required specifications.
If that specification calls for Motorcraft LV, then fill with Motorcraft LV or an OEM replacement which “meets and or exceeds” that precise, Motorcraft LV specification. Specifications should be listed on the containers.

I’m sure others will also jump in to help, so keep us updated and good luck.

 

[RickyMKC]

Hi RickyMKC. My opinion/experience concerning what trans fluid specification to use:
I would highly advise against using a fluid which merely states it is “compatible with” the required specification. “Compatible with” is not the same.

Fill with the precise specification listed in your Owners Manual. You can download the PDF version here (if you were not provided the hard copy)- https://www.lincoln.com/support/owner-manuals/

In the Maintenance and Specifications section, there will be a chart listing all fluids and the required specifications.
If that specification calls for Motorcraft LV, then fill with Motorcraft LV or an OEM replacement which “meets and or exceeds” that precise, Motorcraft LV specification. Specifications should be listed on the containers.

I’m sure others will also jump in to help, so keep us updated and good luck.

Hi RickyMKC. My opinion/experience concerning what trans fluid specification to use:
I would highly advise against using a fluid which merely states it is “compatible with” the required specification. “Compatible with” is not the same.

Fill with the precise specification listed in your Owners Manual. You can download the PDF version here (if you were not provided the hard copy)- https://www.lincoln.com/support/owner-manuals/

In the Maintenance and Specifications section, there will be a chart listing all fluids and the required specifications.
If that specification calls for Motorcraft LV, then fill with Motorcraft LV or an OEM replacement which “meets and or exceeds” that precise, Motorcraft LV specification. Specifications should be listed on the containers.

I’m sure others will also jump in to help, so keep us updated and good luck.

Thanks a bunch for your response. Makes one feel not alone! To be honest, I’ve been so frustrated! I think I’m gonna give it a shot and take it back to the dealer and see what they say and do. After all, it’s their reputation. I just hope I find some grace. I won’t hold my breath. I started feeling this tranny kick one or two days After I took it out of the dealer.
I know it was a “as is” deal but man; in the first week! Really?
I bought it last week on Wednesday the sales man told me that some offices were all already closed so he could not fill up the gas tank for me that day and he was off next day, which was Thursday that I could come Friday or Saturday so when I went Saturday, he asked me about how was the car and I told him the only thing is like a kick once in a while to what he responded: well, you can always bring it to the service department and have them check it and let you know if it’s normal, but he did not say it was free of charge and I know what it is to take a car to the dealership service department!
I know that I am under the wheel on this one, but like I say, I’ll take it and ask to talk to the general manager! To see what he says about buying a car there to find out few days literally less than a week that the transmission has an issue.
And that’s my entrance to the Lincoln family! What do you think?

 

[G-67900]

For the past two months and almost 2000 miles I’ve had a harsh shift when in low speeds today. It occurred to me to put it in sport and drive it as a shift stick. Well what I came to learn was that every shift is smooth, but the one from 2nd to 3rd it is not only harsh, but it has A micro delay when I compare it to the other shifts. What are we looking at here? A solenoid? Which one is it? Can it be replaced without dropping the tranny? MKC front wheel drive with a 2.0

 

[RickyMKC]

Hi RickyMKC and welcome to the Lincoln Forums.

First…Yes, it is safe to change the transmission fluid at ~70,000 miles.

Next…why are you under the assumption Lincoln/Ford recommend 30,000 mile transmission fluid changes?
Do you routinely/often use your Corsair to tow or for other Severe duty types of driving? When being used for that type of driving is when Lincoln/Ford recommend 30,000 miles transmission fluid changes.

Otherwise, if you don’t tow or use your vwhicle in other Severe Duty driving, the Lincoln/Ford recommendation is 150,000 miles.

That being said, I would not recommend 150,000 mile intervals. Personally, I’d recommend perhaps every 50,000 miles if you’d like to be extra cautious. Otherwise, somewhere between 50,000-75,000 is a good interval.

Or, change at 30,000 miles if you’d like.

However, the Owners Manual Maintenance Schedule only requires 30,000 mile intervals for those Severe Duty types of driving, as described in that same Maintenance Schedule.

I’m sure others will also jump in to help, so keep us updated and good luck with whatever you decide to do.

Hi buddy, im writing to you because you was the first one to respond to my tranny oil question. I just posted a question asking if there was enough room to change the tranny solenoid pack in this car 2016 MKC 2.0 fwd without moving the tranny? I appreciate your answer, Thanks.

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[bbf2530]

Hi buddy, im writing to you because you was the first one to respond to my tranny oil question. I just posted a question asking if there was enough room to change the tranny solenoid pack in this car 2016 MKC 2.0 fwd without moving the tranny? I appreciate your answer, Thanks.

Hi RickyMKC. I’m sorry, but I do not know the answer to that question off the top of my head, and do not have the shop manuals available to check.

Perhaps another member can jump in to provide a correct/reliable answer.

Keep us updated and good luck.

 

[RickyMKC]

Hi RickyMKC. I’m sorry, but I do not know the answer to that question off the top of my head, and do not have the shop manuals available to check.

Perhaps another member can jump in to provide a correct/reliable answer.

Keep us updated and good luck.

thank you boss! Im a liitle frustrated cause I have 63 views and not a single reply! ill just keep on waiting.

 

[bbf2530]

thank you boss! Im a liitle frustrated cause I have 63 views and not a single reply! ill just keep on waiting.

Hi RickyMKC. It can be frustrating, but don’t take it personally. We have a great bunch of Lincoln owners here, so it simply means no one who has viewed your question so far knows the answer.

Keep us updated and good luck.

 

[MattMacMan]

Good evening! Just bought my first Lincoln! Its a 2016 2.0 MKC with almost 70K
The car fax shows a pretty well maintenance schedule for engine oil however does not
show tranny fluid change. So is it safe to change it now with 70k?
According to manual its every 30k what do you guys think?

Good evening Ricky. Im a service advisor that works for a Ford Dealership in OKC. Heres my honest advice: Servicing it now, definitely a good idea, the longer you wait, the worse condition that fluid will be in. Also, NEVER use any fluid other than the Motorcraft Mercon LV fluid that is engineered for your vehicle. I'll also want to let you know, fluid does evaporate over time and the fluid level it is at now, may not be where it should be. Especially if its not been changed. Servicing the transmission is more than simply pulling the drain plug, then filling it back up. There is a leveling port on the side of the transmission that gets used to drain excess fluid when it is at temperature which is part of the servicing procedure. Please make sure if you are going to attempt it, you are aware of the process to prevent damage. Also, the solenoid valve body according to the technician guide Im looking at CAN be removed without dropping the Transmission, however its a tight fit, be ready to say some choice words. lol

As for servicing intervals: here is what I will tell you. Im "Supposed to" tell you to change your fluid per the intervals under the scheduled maintenance section of your OM. However, I personally drain and fill the transmission on all my vehicles at 25,000 since I see even at 25,000 how filthy the fluid gets, albeit I can still see through the dirty fluid if I hold a flashlight to it, I know its not doing its job cleaning since the detergents have already broken down. Lubrication is likely ok, but it never hurts to refresh it. I don't flush, I have it only drained and filled using the proper servicing technique per the technician guide, and because I work here, it takes no time out of my day and all I pay for is the fluid. Hope this helps.

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[MattMacMan]

Good evening! Just bought my first Lincoln! Its a 2016 2.0 MKC with almost 70K
The car fax shows a pretty well maintenance schedule for engine oil however does not
show tranny fluid change. So is it safe to change it now with 70k?
According to manual its every 30k what do you guys think?

Oh yea, and one more thing. If your vehicle is AWD, I HIGHLY recommend servicing your PTU fluid as well, since they are known to go out if you don't service them regularly. I service my PTUs every 25K when I have the trans done. We have 4 vehicles. All Ford/Lincoln and all original engines and transmissions without any drivetrain issues.

2016 Ford Focus SEL-185,000 miles
2016 Ford Fusion Titanium AWD-290,000 miles
2023 Lincoln Nautilus Black Label-7,250 miles
2024 Lincoln Corsair Reserve II-15,000 miles.

 

[MattMacMan]

Here is the task right from the Technician Guide. Pictures are attached since they cannot be loaded into the text area.​

​

Transmission Fluid Drain and Refill​

Draining

1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. Refer to: Jacking and Lifting - Overview(100-02 Jacking and Lifting, Description and Operation).

Refer to: Engine Front Undershield(501-02 Front End Body Panels, Removal and Installation).

1. 
   
   NOTE
   
   If an internal problem is suspected, drain the transmission fluid through a paper filter. A small amount of metal or friction particles may be found from normal wear. If an excessive amount of metal or friction material is present, the transmission will need to be overhauled.
   
   
   Remove the drain plug and drain the transmission fluid. Install the drain plug. Torque: 106 lb.in (12 Nm)

Click here to learn about symbols, color coding, and icons used in this manual.

1. Compress the constant tension clamp and remove the transmission vent from the fill tube.

Click here to learn about symbols, color coding, and icons used in this manual.

1. 
   
   NOTICE
   
   The following fluid amounts listed below are for initial fill only. The transmission fluid must be even with the oil leveling plug hole and the transmission must be at normal operating temperature 85-93°C (185-200°F) or transmission damage can occur.
   
   
   
   
   1. Transmission overhaul (includes main control and torque converter drain) Volume: 6.34 qt ( 6 L)
   2. Main control overhaul or replace (with out transmission overhaul) Volume: 5.28 qt ( 5 L)
   3. Transmission draining and filling (for engine and halfshaft related repairs) Volume: 4.23 qt ( 4 L)
   4. Material: Motorcraft® MERCON® LV Automatic Transmission Fluid / XT-10-QLVC (MERCON® LV ) (WSS-M2C938-A)

1. Start the engine and slowly select each gear, stopping in each position and allowing the transmission to engage.

1. With the vehicle on a level hoist, the engine running in PARK, remove the oil leveling plug and allow the transmission fluid to drain until its even with the oil leveling plug hole. If the transmission fluid does not drain from the oil leveling plug hole add transmission fluid in increments of .25 L (0.264 qt) until the transmission fluid is even with the oil leveling plug hole. Install the oil leveling plug.
   
   1. Standard transmission case (M10 plug) Torque: 71 lb.in (8 Nm)
   2. Fuel economy transmission case (M20 plug) Torque: 26 lb.ft (35 Nm)

Click to Enlarge
Click here to learn about symbols, color coding, and icons used in this manual.

1. With the clamp facing the front of the vehicle, compress the constant tension clamp and install the transmission vent on the fill tube.

Click here to learn about symbols, color coding, and icons used in this manual.

1. Drive the vehicle until the transmission is at normal operating temperature 85-93°C (185-200°F).

1. With the vehicle on a level hoist, the engine running in PARK and the transmission fluid at normal operating temperature 85-93°C (185-200°F), remove the oil leveling plug and allow the transmission fluid to drain until it is even with the oil leveling plug hole. Install the oil leveling plug.
   
   1. Standard transmission case (M10 plug) Torque: 71 lb.in (8 Nm)
   2. Fuel economy transmission case (M20 plug) Torque: 26 lb.ft (35 Nm)

Click to Enlarge
Click here to learn about symbols, color coding, and icons used in this manual.


Refer to: Engine Front Undershield(501-02 Front End Body Panels, Removal and Installation).

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