Changing ATF on 2000 XC 70

edbrig · Post by **edbrig** » 26 Jun 2011, 05:49

I checked my ATF fluid the other day (160,000 miles) and noticed that the fluid was a light black color. It doesn't smell like it is burned though and is still smooth to the touch. I am interested in changing or flushing the fluid but not sure of the process. Can any of you offer any advice. Should I flush my system or just change it. Any help is much appreciated. Thanks, Ed

Post by **FlyingVolvo** » 26 Jun 2011, 07:34

Hi Ed!

You should do a series of drain and fills, sooner as opposed to later! If you undo the big ATF drain plug, you'll dump about 3.5 quarts of ATF (approx half of the total fluid). Re-fill the same amount through the dipstick tube, and then drive that for some time, making sure to get up to operating temperature and going through all the gears (reverse included).

Repeat this step 2 or 3 more times until the fluid coming out is fresh. While this method is less efficient than a flush, it is generally accepted as being safer, especially in a car with nasty fluid. After these first drain and fills, if you'd life to get up to doing a full flush, there are instruction on this forum for that. DO NOT take it to a shop for any sort of "flush". The equipment they use can potentially be harmful.

There is a lot of discussion as far as what fluid to use. Personally, I recommend Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF. Frankly though, any good quality Dexron III compatible fluid, mineral or synthetic, will be better than what you have now. Probably better to stick to bigger brands though (Mobil 1, Amsoil, Valvoline, Castrol).

Hope this helps!

edbrig · Post by **edbrig** » 26 Jun 2011, 14:25

Thanks Ed, Will do! - Ed

Post by **FlyingVolvo** » 26 Jun 2011, 18:42

I like you already!

Good luck with the car. These transmissions are very solid when maintained properly.

Post by **jblackburn** » 26 Jun 2011, 19:07

And your solenoids don't commit suicide