Underfilled Transmission Fluid - Has This Issue Ended?

[Jerome10]

Overall I'd say my trans is fine, I suspect. But there are some lurches and particular gears it seems to drop into a bit or are a bit harsh.

I will take to the dealership for this, hopefully a software update or something, plus a couple other items.

But I'm curious if the issue with underfilling transmissions is still an ongoing issue? Or was this just a batch of trucks in a particular time period?

I will probably ask them to check the fluid level as well. I'd do it myself but having to have the truck running, trans at full temp, and then pulling that plug out right next to the cats.... Not so sure I care to handle this one myself.

There is no cold measurement procedure is there?

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[24STX5.0]

I've owned mine for 6 weeks and want to check the trans fluid level too when I get a chance, just for peace of mind; the trans shifts fine.

The first hurdle I can see is getting the trans temp up to the check temp range of 206-215F. I have gone on 20 minute drives in my flat-as-a-pancake state and had the trans not make it to 175F.

 

[PatchManager]

My transmission had a leak between the transfer case the transmission, which took multiple trips to the dealership to get repaired. Through that process, I checked the fluid level many times. You will need to wear a long sleeve shirt and gloves given the location. Practice taking the plug out and putting it back in a few times before you check it when it is warm. I also had to pull the plug out a few times and put it back in to get an average reading because each time I read it, I got a slightly different level.

My approach is to lay a tarp down on the driveway, have all of my tools ready to go along with a rag next to the tarp, so I could pull the pickup on the tarp to quickly get the plug removed and check the level. This is a pain with the PowerBoost because it will shut down fairly quickly. Setting the drive mode to tow and setting the HVAC blower to 5 didn't help.

Although I didn't trust the dealership to measure the level correctly, they did have the level set correctly.

There is no cold temperature check procedure that I found with a lot of searching. Also note that you need to lookup the correct level indicator for your engine.

2021 - 2023 Ford F150 PowerBoost

2021 - 2023 Ford F150 5.0

 

[Porpoise Hork]

This is a pain with the PowerBoost because it will shut down fairly quickly. Setting the drive mode to tow and setting the HVAC blower to 5 didn't help.


2021 - 2023 Ford F150 PowerBoost

This is how I checked it on mine to ensure I had plenty of time to get an accurate reading.

First disable ECO idle so it will run longer than 90 seconds to charge the hybrid battery. Monitor the hybrid battery voltage with a phone app and BT OBD diagnostic tool. When it's nearing 40% get your kid or spouse to stand next to the driver's side with the door open and when you're ready to check the transmission level, have them reach in and press the gas pedal. This will trigger the system to start the ICE up. You'll have at least 90 seconds to 120 seconds of idle time to check the fluid while the system is recharging the battery pack.

 

[Antimatter22]

I wasn't aware this was an issue but the dealership added some transmission fluid a couple weeks ago when I took the truck in for the aux transmission fluid pump starting to act up. Mine is a '22.

 

[Jerome10]

Some really helpful stuff here!

I will have to check but I swear I once saw a procedure to put a Powerboost in service mode or something to keep the ICE running.

I'm just hoping I can ask my dealer to check the fluid level when I take it in. I REALLY don't wanna crawl under a running, boiling-hot truck and try not to burn myself on the cats.

I'll tell ya... I know this is what every car company is doing... but why on earth are they doing this kinda stuff instead of just putting on a dipstick and a drain plug? My old 2006 Corolla was so easy.

 

[Jerome10]

Found that Powerboost Engine Running Diagnostic Mode procedure in this thread https://www.f150gen14.com/forum/thr...ssion-service-kit-part-6600.25096/post-472289

Follow the steps below to enter the engine running diagnostic mode:

1. Place the vehicle in PARK.
2. Push the start button to enter the accessory mode.
3. Press the brake pedal and accelerator pedal together for 5 seconds.
4. Steps 5 & 6 should be performed within 15 seconds after completing Step 3.
5. Release both the accelerator and brake pedals.
6. Press the brake pedal and push the start button so that the vehicle is in drivable state.
7. Press the brake pedal and accelerator pedal together for 5 seconds.
8. NOTE: The READY TO DRIVE or DRIVE symbol should be flashing on the instrument cluster at a regular interval when the Engine Running diagnostic mode is active.

When this sequence is complete, the vehicle enters the diagnostic mode and the engine should remain running continuously.

 

[Captain Dirty Beard]

Tow haul mode will keep the ICE running

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