My new to me 2003 XK8 needs a fluid and filter change at 83K miles. As I look for an indy shop to do it, I'm getting shops that recommend power flushing the transmission without removing the pan. I've read on here that power flushing can cause issues. Has anyone used the power flush technique with good results? I'd much rather spend $200-300 for a flush vs $1000 for a drain and filter if the results are the same.

Thanks,
Steve

 

Most folks here with the 03 and newer ZF trans in these xk8's just have pan dropped and replaced as filter is part of it and replace fluids lost (7 to 8 quarts). I just did it to mine today and all the issues I was having are gone

 

The pan is the filter in these transmissions and IMO changing the filter is one of the more important aspects of the job. Personally I would do the pan change and refill with fresh fluid.

$1000 is a bit high for the job though. Even with ZF brand fluid (which is insanely expensive) it should only be about half that much. There are a number of fluid brands that meet the ZF spec, and several members have used Mercon SP with good results.

The ZF 6HP is used in all kinds of vehicles, including BMW and even some Fords. You shouldn't have trouble finding someone who knows the procedures and can do the work for less.

 

Without removing the pan, what wizardy are they using to replace the filter and clean the magnets?

Serious though, I prefer drain and fill as I've rebuilt a few transmissions for people where gunk has been flushed to where it didn't need to be. Another thing is that trans fluid should be changed preventatively, because sometimes I've seen people change fluid on a transmission on the way out and removing the clutch friction material in the fluid just sped up it's death. I'm not saying this is the case with you; this is in general.

A healthy well maintained transmission can handle flushes periodically; but I really hesitate on it if I don't know it's been well taken care of. BTW - I mean a flush where they also change the filter and clean the magnets. Not doing that is goofy.

 

$1000 for a fluid and pan change? Yipes!

 

I just paid 850.00 for new ZF pan/filter, fluid (7 quarts), upgraded pan bolt kit, on my 03.

 

$258.19 for the complete kit

6 Speed oil change kit Jaguar