Want to change my trans fluid, no issues other than 90K miles. Really do not want to deal with stripped or frozen bolts laying under the car on jack stands so how important is it to change the pan/ filter?

Thinking as I have no issues that fresh fluid and being sure the level is correct would be all I really need.

 

We changed the ATF in my 2005 S-Type last November at 85,000 miles because I felt it was time to do so. Since my sleeve was not leaking, I opted not to change the pan/filter. My ZF 6HP26 continues to operate just fine. No regrets in not changing the pan. I chose Mercon SP, and I plan to do one final drain-and-fill at 90,000 miles just to ensure mostly clean ATF going forward. It's your call on whether or not to change the pan....