The Car Care Clinic with the Dr John

95 Ford Taurus - Transmission problems

Question

I recently talked to my Dad, who has a '95 Ford Taurus with some transmission problems. I am not sure what the actual problem is, but I am a little disturbed by something the mechanic said to him. He said there were metal flakes in the pan, which could effect the power steering system. He said both systems were one in the same, (they have been combined). If this is the case, why does the vehicle have its own power steering reservoir as well as the transmission servicing tube which the dipstick slides down into? What I am worried about is the integrity of the mechanic who happens to work in one of the major transmission repair garages and the possible shafting he is giving to my father.

Answer

William, the power steering and automatic transmission are two completely different systems. They do not share fluids in any way! In fact they use different fluids!

Unless your father misunderstood what the tech was saying, you have great reason to be concerned! I suggest calling your father and confirm what he is telling you. If the story stays the same steer him away from that shop. Why? Because it sounds like he's going to get a power steering rack and transmission along with that shaft!

Good Luck!
Dr. John