Fast Car

1. Park the ML430 on a flat surface and make sure the engine is cool. If the car has been driven recently, wait at least 30 minutes for the heat to dissipate. Raise the car on jack stands to reach the underside of the engine more easily. Slide under the car and locate the transmission drain pan. It is a large, metal tank held with eight bolts beneath the middle of the engine.
2. Place a collection pan beneath the drain pan. Use the 1/2-inch socket wrench to remove all but one bolt on the drain pan. Wait 10 to 15 minutes for the fluid to drain into the collection pan. When it stops spilling from the side, place one hand on the drain pan and remove the final bolt. Lower the pan and pour the remaining fluid into the collection pan. Wash out the drain pan and bolts.
3. Remove the transmission filter under the drain pan with the 3/8-inch socket wrench. Attach the new transmission filter with the same bolts removed from the old one. Reattach the drain pan and lower the car from the jack stands.
4. Pop the engine hood by pulling the hood-release lever underneath the steering panel. Locate the yellow transmission dipstick above the drain pan. Pull it out and place a funnel into the tube. Pour in three quarts of five-speed transmission fluid. Replace the dipstick and close the engine hood.
5. Pour the used transmission fluid into a leak-proof container and take it to a recycling center. Many auto repair and auto parts shops also accept used car fluids.

1. Drive the vehicle for ten minutes and then place it in park on a level area. Check the automatic transmission fluid prior to completing the oil change since its best to check and add transmission fluid at operating temperature.
2. Locate the reservoir and dipstick labeled ATF. It will be found opposite of the regular motor oil, on the driver side of the vehicle and is colored red.
3. Remove the dipstick from the reservoir and wipe it clean with a rag. Replace the dipstick completely and remove it once more. This will give you an accurate reading of the transmission fluid. If the measurement reads full do not add any fluid at this time as over filling can cause damage to the transmission. If the measurement reads between the full and add lines or below the add lines, then add fluid.
4. Place a funnel into the reservoir neck where the dipstick normally sits. Pour a small amount of transmission fluid into the reservoir and allow it to funnel down completely. Check the transmission fluid levels again by removing the funnel and replacing the dipstick completely.
5. Remove the dipstick and read the measurement. Add more fluid, if needed. Continue this process until the measurement reads full. Once finished, proceed to the oil change, as the components and oil will now be cool enough to complete the oil change.

1. Park the ML430 on a flat surface and make sure the engine is cool. If the car has been driven recently, wait at least 30 minutes for the heat to dissipate. Raise the car on jack stands to reach the underside of the engine more easily. Slide under the car and locate the transmission drain pan. It is a large, metal tank held with eight bolts beneath the middle of the engine.
2. Place a collection pan beneath the drain pan. Use the 1/2-inch socket wrench to remove all but one bolt on the drain pan. Wait 10 to 15 minutes for the fluid to drain into the collection pan. When it stops spilling from the side, place one hand on the drain pan and remove the final bolt. Lower the pan and pour the remaining fluid into the collection pan. Wash out the drain pan and bolts.
3. Remove the transmission filter under the drain pan with the 3/8-inch socket wrench. Attach the new transmission filter with the same bolts removed from the old one. Reattach the drain pan and lower the car from the jack stands.
4. Pop the engine hood by pulling the hood-release lever underneath the steering panel. Locate the yellow transmission dipstick above the drain pan. Pull it out and place a funnel into the tube. Pour in three quarts of five-speed transmission fluid. Replace the dipstick and close the engine hood.
5. Pour the used transmission fluid into a leak-proof container and take it to a recycling center. Many auto repair and auto parts shops also accept used car fluids.