I know on the older Dodge/Chrysler products the filter seemed to be a weak link. Some services that specialize in "transmission flushes" will suck the fluid out the dipstick hole, and the way I understand it, doing it that way will suck everything (fluid/dirt) out thru the filter and plug it up for later on.
A good service entails dropping the pan and replacing the filter/gasket also. If you have ever had a "trans. flush", a plugged filter could be a problem.
You might try Googling the problem and seeing what comes up, found all my potential problems with my Taurus there also.
P & M Recycling - Specializing in E-Waste Recycling. 
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