The automatic transmission in the Ford Taurus relies on Mercon V transmission fluid to help the transmission shift hydraulically, and to prevent undue wear on the internal moving parts through lubrication. Just like engine oil, the transmission fluid breaks down over time and ultimately will lose its ability to protect the transmission from damage. Performing a transmission flush properly requires a special flush machine. It is best to leave this job to a professional, factory-trained transmission technician.
Fill the transmission flush machine with 10 quarts of Mercon V transmission fluid. This step varies based on the brand of your flush machine, so make sure to consult your flush machine’s specific operating instructions before beginning.
Remove the Taurus’s transmission cooler lines from the transmission cooler using the line wrench. The Taurus’s transmission cooler is located in the side tank of the radiator.
Connect the flush hoses from the transmission flush machine to the transmission cooler lines. You will need to tighten down the hose clamps on the cooler lines with the screwdriver to ensure they do not leak during the flush procedure.
Start the Taurus and turn the flush machine on to the flush setting. Watch the machine and shut it off once clean transmission fluid is pumping back out of the transmission. Turn the Taurus off.
Loosen the hose clamps on the flush hoses and pull the hoses off the transmission cooler lines. Reconnect the transmission cooler lines to the transmission cooler with the line wrench.
Start the Taurus again, put your foot firmly on the brake pedal and shift the transmission through each gear, one at a time before shifting back to park. Check the transmission-fluid level and top off as needed with Mercon V. You may need to add up to two quarts, depending on the brand of your transmission flush machine.
