Some of the transmission pan bolts are hidden behind the exhaust of my wife's 2000 Explorer. I want to change the filter and fluids but not sure I can access the trans pan bolts for the removal and installation of the unit (can't get at them with sockets). Any advise or hints on how to do this? Thank you.

Can you get a box-end wrench (ratcheting), nut driver, or open-end wrench in there? If needed, try removing the exhaust system, from just below the exhaust manifold to the catalytic converter. Removal is one of the keys to working on cars today. Sometimes, I have to drop the subframe, remove fender liner, degasser, power steering reservoir, etc. Once you get the hang of it, it's not that big a deal.

This link may help you:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-selected-other-vehicles-46563-10.html#post1873132

I use either Mobil 1 Multi-Vehicle Synthetic ATF or Amsoil Universal Synthetic ATF in my 2000 Taurus DOHC transmission and power steering. It's well worth the extra money. If you take care of the engine and transmission, everything else that goes wrong with the car is relatively minor. Synthetics help you avoid the big unexpected repair bill:

https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-trucks/faq-how-troubleshoot-repair-maintain-hondas-selected-other-vehicles-46563-12.html#post2162069

Thanks for the info. I suspected I would have to remove the exhaust to get at it - just not sure if there was a trick I was missing. Thanks also for the hints on doing the job too! It helps to hear/see something to guide you through a process like this.

When you remove the old filter, the O-ring may come off and stay in the transmission housing. This is common. Take a flat head screwdriver and carefully pry it out, without scratching the aluminum housing. Coat the new O-ring with ATF.

I used the approach I shared with you to help my neighbor's son to completely change his ATF and filter recently in his Mercury Marquis. It's so easy to do the job right that it's not funny. He refilled it with 14 qts of Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF. It now shifts so effortlessly and smoothly.