Here's a step-by-step guide, but always consult your owner's manual for the specific type and amount of transmission fluid your Aspire requires. Using the wrong fluid can severely damage your transmission.
1. Gather Your Supplies:
* Correct type and amount of manual transmission fluid: This is absolutely critical. Check your owner's manual. Don't guess.
* New drain pan: Large enough to hold the fluid being drained.
* Wrench: The size will depend on your drain plug. Likely a 10mm or 12mm. A socket wrench is generally easier than an open-ended wrench.
* Fill funnel: To avoid spills when refilling.
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safe working conditions. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: For added safety.
* Gloves: To protect your hands from the used fluid.
* Rags or shop towels: For cleaning up spills.
* Torque wrench (optional but recommended): To ensure the drain and fill plugs are tightened to the correct specification (check your manual).
2. Prepare the Vehicle:
* Park the Aspire on a level surface. Engage the parking brake firmly.
* Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels.
* Jack up the vehicle and securely support it on jack stands. Make sure the stands are placed on solid, level ground.
3. Locate the Drain and Fill Plugs:
* The drain plug is usually located at the bottom of the transmission case.
* The fill plug is often on the side of the transmission case, usually higher up than the drain plug. Sometimes it's a slightly different size than the drain plug.
* Find these plugs *before* you jack up the car. Knowing their locations beforehand will make the job much easier.
4. Drain the Fluid:
* Position your drain pan under the drain plug.
* Carefully loosen and remove the drain plug. Let the fluid drain completely. This may take a while.
* Inspect the fluid for color and debris. Dark, burnt fluid indicates the need for a change. Metallic debris suggests internal damage.
5. Replace the Drain Plug:
* Once the fluid has drained, replace the drain plug and tighten it securely. Use your torque wrench if you have one. Over-tightening can strip the threads.
6. Fill the Transmission:
* Locate the fill plug.
* Using your funnel, add the correct amount of new transmission fluid as specified in your owner's manual. This is usually done until the fluid starts to come out of the fill hole.
7. Reassemble and Check:
* Lower the vehicle and remove the jack stands.
* Start the engine and allow it to run for a few minutes. Check for leaks around the drain and fill plugs.
* Check the transmission fluid level again, adding more fluid if necessary.
8. Multiple Drain and Fills (for a more complete fluid change):
Because you can't completely drain all the fluid from a manual transmission, you'll likely want to repeat the process (steps 4-6) a couple of times to get most of the old fluid out. Drive the car for a few days/miles between drain and fill cycles to help circulate the new fluid.
Important Considerations:
* Transmission Fluid Type: Use *only* the transmission fluid specified in your owner's manual. Using the wrong fluid can cause serious damage.
* Safety First: Always use jack stands. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Difficulty: While straightforward, this job can be physically demanding. If you're not comfortable working on your car, take it to a qualified mechanic.
This guide provides general instructions. Always refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions and torque specifications for your 1997 Ford Aspire. If you have any doubts, consult a professional mechanic.
