10-Speed Automatic Transmission Assembly for 2021-2025 Ford Bronco, Ranger

A quick look at your own vehicle makes sure the right transmission shows up:

• Confirm the 8th digit of your VIN is 'A' (2.3L EcoBoost engine).
• Check the driver's side door jamb sticker under the 'TR' column; it must display the code 'T'.
• Confirm your vehicle is a 4x4 configuration matching the 2.3L engine.

What the install really takes — plan and budget with confidence:

Special tools this job needs:

• Transmission jack
• Transfer case jack
• Torque converter alignment/holding tool
• Ford-compatible scan tool (Ford FDRS, IDS, or FORScan)
• Fluid fill pump

Budget for these consumables at install:

• Motorcraft Mercon ULV (Ultra-Low Viscosity) fluid (WSS-M2C949-A)
• New transmission filter (Motorcraft FT-231 / FT-218 / Part # LP5Z-7A098-A / HL3Z-7A098-A)
• New pan gasket
• Front pump/torque converter input shaft seal
• Rear output/transfer case seal
• Professional transmission cooler-line flush solvent

What your vehicle’s computers will need after the swap:

What’s involved: Solenoid Body Strategy Programming, VIN-specific programming, and TCM Adaptive Relearn

The solenoid strategy varies by build: the 13-digit solenoid body strategy and 12-digit solenoid body ID must be programmed into the vehicle's computer, and a TCM adaptive relearn must be performed. A dealer-level tool (Ford FDRS/IDS) or advanced aftermarket software like FORScan is required. Failure to program will cause immediate internal damage.

Pro tips for a smooth first start-up — hand them to whoever does the install:

• Torque Converter Seating: Ensure the torque converter is fully seated (three distinct clicks, recessed at least 1 inch) before bolting to the engine to avoid cracking the internal front pump.
• Transmission-to-Transfer Case Alignment: Strictly follow Ford alignment procedures to prevent premature spline wear and loss of park pawl function.
• The 'Scorching Hot' Fluid Check: Fluid level must be checked from underneath the vehicle with the engine running, vehicle level, and fluid temp between 206°F and 215°F, right next to the hot catalytic converter.
• Solenoid Strategy Tag Photo: Take a clear photo of the strategy tag on the left side of the case before installation, as it is extremely difficult to read once installed.
• Dowel Pin Alignment: Ensure engine block-to-bellhousing dowel pins are present and clean. Do not use bolts to draw the transmission to the engine.

Easy to get right once you know them:

• Reusing the old solenoid strategy in the computer instead of programming the new unit's unique strategy.
• Using the wrong fluid (such as Mercon LV, Mercon V, or generic multi-vehicle ATF) instead of the required Mercon ULV.
• Checking the fluid level cold or with the engine off, leading to severe under-filling.
• Failing to flush the transmission cooler lines, which introduces debris from the failed unit into the replacement.
• Cracking the front pump by failing to seat the torque converter properly before tightening bellhousing bolts.

Not issues with the units on this page — the manufacturer documented these for every transmission of this family, wherever you buy one. Handy for your installer: