Before starting any transmission fluid change, disconnect the negative terminal on the battery. This is to prevent any power from being sent to the transmission.
Slide under the truck
Slide under the truck and locate the transmission fluid pan. It will most likely be a flat, rectangular shape and will have at least one bolt in it.
Drain the transmission fluid
Use a drain pan or a large container to collect the transmission fluid drained. Position it underneath the drain plug on the transmission pan.
Loosen the drain plug using the appropriate size wrench and allow all the transmission fluid to drain.
Remove the transmission pan
Once the transmission fluid has stopped dripping, replace the drain plug.
Clean the gasket or replace the gasket if necessary from the transmission pan.
Loosen the bolts holding the transmission pan in place.
Slowly remove the transmission pan and inspect it for any damage.
Replace the transmission filter
The transmission filter will most likely be located inside the transmission pan.
Remove the old filter and clean it with some brake cleaner.
Apply a little transmission fluid to the new filter and insert it into the transmission pan.
Reinstall the transmission pan
Replace the gasket on the transmission pan.
Align the transmission pan with the bolt holes and reinstall the bolts.
Tighten the bolts evenly to prevent any leaks.
Reinstall transmission fluid
Add the correct amount of transmission fluid to the transmission.
The amount of fluid needed will vary depending on your truck. Check your owner's manual for the correct amount.
Recheck fluid level
Start your truck and let the engine run for a few minutes.
Use transmission dipstick to check the transmission fluid level.
Add additional fluid if necessary
If the fluid level is low, add extra fluid until the level is correct.
Reconnect battery
Reconnect the negative terminal on the battery.
Start the engine and check for leaks
Start your truck and let the engine run for a few minutes.
Check for any leaks around the transmission pan. If you see any leaks, tighten the bolts until the leak stops.
