Ford Explorer transmission problems

transmission problem

8.5

pretty bad

Typical Repair Cost:

$2,475.00

Average Mileage:

63,250 miles

Number of complaints:

4 complaints

Most common solutions:

  1. replaced with refurbished transmission (2 reports)
  2. had transmission rebuilt (1 reports)
  3. not sure (1 reports)

Helpful Websites About 2003 Ford Explorer RPMs too high shifting from 1st to 2nd gear

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

problem #4

2007Aug 31

(reported on)

Explorer XLT 4.0L V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 85,000 miles

Like the others, I had a premature failure of the transmission with it slipping between second and third gear. The guy at the transmission shop knew what the problem was as soon as I told him what kind of car I had. Its obviously a design defect that Ford refuses to acknowledge.

Brett B.

Hayward, CA, USA

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problem #3

2007Aug 15

(reported on)

Explorer V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 74,000 miles

This is my second Explorer and I have always talked them up. The first, a 1999, was always good. I've had this 2003 for about two years, bought it with about 40k miles. My 1999 seemed to shift a little funny so I didn't think too much of it when the 2003 shifting seemed a bit funny (hesitant) too. It has seemed to very slowly getting worse. then, a few days ago it raced before lurching into second. After that it's seemed to slip or hesitate about half the time going from 1 to 2, and at times from 2 to 3. Yesterday when I could finally get it to a garage, the OD light started flashing, service engine light came on and it wouldn't shift into OD. Mechanic said it needs to be rebuilt - $2200 to $2800. I was thinking about putting in a used one for about $1300, but after reviewing this site I will probably go with a rebuild. I have always been a real vocal supporter of the USA car industry. This, however, has made me shut up and I will probably never buy another - Ford especially. Bad move Ford. If you lose me as a customer you probably aren't going to make it. You should really address your problem here!!!

Dave K.

Minneapolis, MN, USA

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problem #2

2006Sep 06

(reported on)

Explorer XLT

  • 43,000 miles

After only 43,000, engine began high rev where RPMs would go to 2500 then suddenly drop to 1500 (beginning around 30 mph). The engine had a high whine sound the faster I went. Seemed as if engine was not shifting gears properly. Turns out a defect in the transmission converter caused metal shavings in the transmission. Had to replace with refurb transmission. Got a much better warranty on refurbished unit, but will have to think long and hard before buying Ford again.

Michael B.

Ashburn, Virginia, USA

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problem #1

2006Jul 29

(reported on)

Explorer XLT

  • 51,000 miles

I don't know much about cars but 51000 miles seems a little low to have to have the transmission overhauled or replaced. I also know other people who owned 2003 or 2004 Explorers that experienced transmission problems. I will NEVER own another Ford again.

cvtx

Leander, TX, USA

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We have partnered with JustAnswer to offer online auto repair help and advice from expert professional automotive technicians. You describe your transmission problem or ask your question and they try to help you figure it out. The fee is typically $9 to $15, but you can offer to pay more for really tough questions. You will usually receive an answer in 10 minutes or less, and you do not have to pay anything unless you accept the answer.