I need to do the 30,000 transmission service on my 2006 Super Cab XLT 4X4, it has the 5.4 with tow package and trans fluid cooler. My fluid is clear and looks bright but I want to stick with the service intervals for warranty purposes.

A friend said I should put synthetic transmission fluid in it for better mileage, better performance and longevity.
A full fluid exchange will take about 16 quarts - about $130 with sales tax (plus about $100 in labor at the shop that has an exchanger).

I am wondering if it is worth the extra expense to go synthetic?

If I am doing the tranny should I do the differentials & transfer case as well?

Any feedback or recommendations?

Thanks, D

 

If you stick with the 30K change intervals, you can save the bucks and use conventional non synthetic. If you're hard on the truck or plan to stretch the transmission oil change interval, or do some serious towing, go with the synthetic. That's it's purpose (synthetic); longer intervals or hard use.

 

if you are going to continue to follow the scheduled service routine then i would say use whatever is cheapest and approved for use by Ford. As long as the replacement fluid meets or exceeds the same certifications as the Ford Motorcraft fluids then you will never have a problem with any warranty replacements.

Once you are out of the warranty period i would then recommend using a higher quality synthetic fluid, and using an extended drain/replace interval like Bucko advised.