8.2
pretty badTypical Repair Cost:
$2,144.00
Average Mileage:
92,722 miles
Total Complaints:
61 complaints
Most common solutions:
- replace with rebuilt transmission (28 reports)
- not sure (12 reports)
- complete overhaul recommended (8 reports)
- new shift kit & solenoid body (3 reports)
- rebuilt transmission installed (3 reports)
- new valve body installed and possible more repairs (2 reports)
transmission problem
Helpful Websites About 2003 Ford Explorer o/d light flashes transmission messages
2007Sep 18
(reported on)Explorer XLT 4.6L V-8
- Automatic transmission
- 62,000 miles
2003 Ford Explorer XLT w/ 4.6L V-8-62000 Miles. O/D light flashing after 2 miles. Slow shift from 1st to 2nd at 3,000 RPM's vs 2,000 normal.. 2nd and 5th gear codes. Service engine soon light on. Burned fluid. Clutch fragments in fluid. Byram Trans says poor design by Ford. Trans body needs machining of 2 shaft borings to allow brass bushing inserts to correct. $2400 quote. UGH!!!
2009Sep 15
Explorer XLS 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 73,500 miles
Wow! Looks like I'm not the only one with transmissions problems! I can't believe all these problems everyone is having! Here's my story....My dad worked at a local plant that made some Ford electrical parts. All my family drives is Fords because we get a pretty good discount. Bought a 2003 Explorer new & at 73,500 miles the O/D light began flashing one day as well as the service engine soon light. I noticed the truck was shifting differently, making loud noises and it seemed like the tranny was slipping. Took it to my buddy at the local Ford dealer & he knew right away that I had a major problem. He told me he replaced or repaired about 30 transmissions in the 2002-2004 Explorers in the past few years with some having as little as 45,000 miles. I was stunned! Recently paid this thing off & was not about to sink $3500 for a new transmission or $2200 for a rebuilt one! He advised me to trade it in fast while it's still slightly driveable & before it's totally worthless...I listened...Just traded it in yesterday for a 2010 Nissan Xterra. The Nisaan dealer gave me $3500 for the Exploder & is probably going to send it right to auction. I feel bad for whoever gets it next. I'm officially done with Fords!
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Sep 18
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 82,000 miles
Looks like I was lucky to make it 80000 MILES before transmission went. Found out this is a very common problem, all mechanics know it but no owners know it until it happens to them ! Have owned cars for 40 years and never had a transmission go out, especially on a well maintained car! $2500 for repairs! Ford should have helped out as this is such a common problem.
2009Jul 22
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 57,000 miles
A 2003 vehicle with only 57000 miles should not have a transmission suddenly go out. The car was driven less than 10000 miles per year. At this rate Ford can hardly be viewed as reliable. I never will recommend anyone buy a Ford nor will I ever purchase one. Only in the good old US of A can you be ripped off so easily. No wonder Americans are buying foreign and our cars don't sell overseas.
2009Aug 07
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 960,000 miles
Ford Sucks!!!! I have a 2003 explore,running great then out of nowhere no warning sighns the od light comes.Then it started shifting from 1st to second at high rpms.Take it to a transmission shop tell me $700 for a solenoid.Then three hours later call me and say its going to need a new trans $$3500 ouch!!! Now I'am driving it hoping it last long enough to save up for the new trans(nice) I will never buy a ford truck again,and you can bet I will tell everyone I come across to never buy FORD cars or trucks .THEY DON'T STAND BEHIND THERE PRODUCTS thanks Todd
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Aug 11
Explorer Limited V6
- Automatic transmission
- 98,000 miles
I purchased in 2005 a used 2003 Ford Explorer and purchased the extra Extended Warranty. I thought that the extended warranty was going to cover an extra 75,000 miles but that was found out not to be true. Anyway, the O/D light kept flashing, the transmission light came on, and cannot shift past 2nd gear. I took it to a Ford Dealership and they want to charge $3300 to repair. I about passed out, I was praying that it was something minor like electrical wiring that was all tangled up but that was not the case.
I know cars have problems but not the transmission already. I know that I will have to have this repaired, but it is just so aggrivating because maybe this should have happened after the piece of $$$$ was paid off, at least that's when we think something should go wrong!
2009Jun 24
Explorer Eddie Bauer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 79,500 miles
I've owned Fords for 30 years, 5 total...3 bad transmissions. You'd think I'd have learned my lesson. This time the OD lite starts flashing while we are on vacation in Craig, Colorado, pulling a travel trailer. 1st Ford dealer said "not a real problem, OK to drive home (Oregon) maybe a solenoid ? Reset the computer but the light came back on w/in 10 miles. Nice guy and didn't charge me. 100 miles later, Steamboat Springs, light coming on pretty much all the time, the dealer there did a full diagnostic, checked fluids, etc. Again, told me nothing apparently wrong, maybe a sensor. 1500 miles later I have it checked by my local dealer. Guess what? $3500 for a new transmission. Don't they know what they're doing? I'm done with Fords and told them so. I bought a Silverado. Good thing Ford didn't get any money for the "stimulus" plan (or did they) If they don't figure out a better transmission they will go the way of Packard.
2009Jul 06
Explorer XLT 3.1L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 85,000 miles
Have 2003 ford explorer and tranny went 2000 miles after warranty and no help from ford this was at 62,000 miles. Now at 85,000 o/d light flashing again and tranny needs to be replaced again. I am unemployed and wrote Ford and they dont seem to care. Its just funny the first time tranny went 2nd and 5th gear were gone and same thing again. Everyone please write to Ford and NHTSA I still owe on this car so now heading for repossession not paying for something I cant drive.
2009May 23
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 49,000 miles
I have a 2003 Ford Explorer and literally ONE day after they say my warranty expired, the transmission started not shifting properly and the O/D light started flashing. I took it to the dealer but unfortunately my warranty expired over a holiday weekend so I did not get the car in until a few days later. At that point, the service dept charged me $100 to look at the car AFTER they already told me I needed a new transmission... but they wanted to have a specialist look at it. It was obvious that this was not a new problem for them and that they had seen it before. I didn't even finish telling them the problem when they guy told me it would cost well over $3000 to fix. I only had 49000 miles on my truck. I was told by the sales people at the dealer, as well as former and current ford employees, that I should call the customer relations line and they will help me get the car fixed for less than full cost. When I called, they offered to split the cost 50/50 with me saying I would still have to pay almost $2000! I don' t have the money to pay that and I said Ford should cover more since I can get it fixed at a trans place for that price. They wouldn't budge and I've been fighting with them for weeks now. I have also filed a complaint with the Better Business Bureau. I will NOT buy another Ford car again. I can not believe they do not stand by their product better than this. I should not need a new transmission with only 49,000 miles on it. And obviously it is a repeated problem with this model of car and Ford knows about it.... they should do a recall and replace all of our transmissions at their cost!!!! I am thoroughly disappointed in Ford.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Jun 08
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L V6 Flex Fuel
- Automatic transmission
- 56,883 miles
Transmission failure should not occur at 56,000 miles. Mechanic explained 1st and 5th share much of the same components, so they get the most use and wear out the fastest. When they start to go, over drive light comes on along with check transmission warning. Symptoms are trouble shifting from 1st to 2nd; must let off gas to obtain shift into second.
2008May 26
Explorer XLT
- Automatic transmission
- 48,000 miles
I spent $38,000 on my truck and payed it off May 2008. literally 2 days later at 48,000 miles the o/d light and transmission light came on. I took it to several places and they all said the 2nd and 5th gears was burned out. Since I didn't have an extended warranty what was I to do, I'm a mother with 4 kids and no job for the time being, and I need my truck but I don't have the money. I even filed against the company with the attorney general but Ford refused to cooperate. Now it's been over a year and I'm still driving with me shifting the gears myself and I haven't enjoyed the fact that I payed off my truck a year ago yet. It's sad because Ford got alot of money out of me but they can't help a customer for as little as $2500. All this happened after I spent money on getting new wheel bearings at 45000 miles, which is telling me that I got nothing but a lemon, but you have to have a warranty to claim it as a lemon. So now I feel that I'm stuck and I get no enjoyment every time I drive because when the gears stick it only reminds me of how much a fool I was to get a Ford truck. The good thing about this is that their are programs out there that will help with repairs as long as you fall into the low income guidelines, but they only give you a certain amount and I know I have to dig in my pocket anyway. All I know is that Ford will never get my business from me because they show no compassion for their customers that came from their fault.
2009May 29
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 72,500 miles
I unfortunately own a 2003 Ford Explorer with only 72,500 miles on it, that I just had the pleasure to replace the transmission in ! If I knew that this was a common problem with explorers, you bet I would have never bought one. I agree with other explorer owners that Ford needs to take action for their faulty transmissions and pay for this expense. This was a very costly repair, total was $2200.00, and you bet I will be the thorn in Fords side until I am compensated for this expense. I did get some help from the service department at the Ford Dealership I went to, which was better than nothing. Good luck Ford Explorer owners, you'll need it !
2009May 26
Explorer LTD V8
- Automatic transmission
- 103,000 miles
Still trying to decide what to do. Ford dealer quotes $2,076 to repair converter, front pump, solenoid filter or Replace cost $3,800 for a re manufactured transmission. Taking it to AAMCO for estimate now.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2008Dec 20
Explorer XT 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 74,565 miles
The O/D light began flashing one day for no reason as well as the service engine light. I noticed the truck was shifting different and overdrive was not working. Took it to the local Ford dealer which was a mistake. They diagnosed the problem to solenoids or something (?) in the transmission and said the only fix was a rebuilt transmission (no kidding?). They charged me $350 to diagnose and offered to replace it for $4000 with a rebuilt transmission. When I asked them if this was a common problem with these trucks they said no! Talked with a couple of local transmission shops and they said this is a very common problem with Ford Explorers and the best fix is a new or rebuilt tranny. NOt wanting to spend thousands of dollars on the truck, I found a used tranny at a local wrecker for $600 with 1 year warranty and had it installed. Going to trade off or sell before the year is up and will never buy another Ford product again.
2009Apr 08
Explorer XLT
- Automatic transmission
- 130,000 miles
I have a 2003 Ford Explorer and one day the o/d light was flashing. Like an idiot I bring it to a Ford dealer to have them check it out and they try to charge me $332 to tell me that I need a new transmission. I refuse to pay and end up forking over $120. I bring it to a transmission place. They take it apart and tell me that I will have to pay $3,900 to get a new transmission.
A) The car is only worth $2,500 and B) I still owe $3,600 on the note.
What am I supposed to do? Are there other transmission shops out there that will fix a junk transmission for $1,500-$2,500?
2009Apr 15
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- miles
No major problems with my Explorer until now. The ride is noticeably rougher and the O/D off light was on and the check engine light turned on, so I took it into an independent garage to get the codes pulled and hoped for the best. I was told that there were several problems that needed attention, including a new transmission solenoid. Associated problems included the left rear wheel bearing, left front wheel bearing, rear brakes and rotors, a broken pinon drive seal. All together $1,800 worth of repairs.
I need the vehicle and I am getting everything fixed, but I am not a happy camper with Ford. These seem like a lot of problems to have to take care of.
Initially, the diagnostic codes indicated a transmission solenoid problem, but after replacing it, the check engine light persisted and the problem was not fixed. The next option was a rebuilt or remanufactured transmission, I opted for the less expensive rebuilt transmission and the independent dealer that had my vehicle backed out the charges for the solenoid and installed the rebuilt transmission. They had the vehicle for three days and it runs fine now and the rebuilt tranny has a 12 month/12,000 warranty, which I hope I don't have to use.
It was suggested that I contact Ford customer service regarding a goodwill credit, but that call proved fruitless. The final repair tab for the transmission service alone was $2009.45.
This is the last Ford vehicle that I will purchase...
2009Apr 03
Explorer XLT 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 72,000 miles
I had the overdrive light come on in my 2003 Explorer. When I brought it in, I was told it was the transmission and I needed a new torque converter. This was a $2417.00 expense. I think this is just outrageous. I am ashamed to say that I stuck up for Ford during the bailout sessions the other American car companies lobbied for. This is something that has just happened to me. I am shocked that Ford has never addressed this problem.
I assure you I am not done with this.!
2009Mar 31
Explorer 4.6L V8
- Automatic transmission
- 89,500 miles
Similar to all the others in here, No prior notice of trouble. O/D light starting flashing. Brought it in to dealer who gave me 2 options; try to fix the existing one for a minimum of $1900 with no great guarantee or install a rebuilt w/100k mile guarantee for $3900. Original has 89k miles on it and the truck has been great up to now. 4 grand is a tough pill to swallow but I can't see going with little to no warranty. Just thought I'd add mine to the list.
2008Feb 14
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 55,500 miles
Like everyone else in these complaint's, it started out as an O/D trouble light flashing. Took it to the local dealer (whom I also purchased the vehicle from) and was told a $100 computer fee and then a $900 tear down charge would be applied just to see what exactly was wrong. Since the vehicle was of course not under warranty, I took it to a different recommended repair shop. They told me what all the problems were without even hooking up computer, as they are repairing approximately 6 Explorers a month for exactly the same problems. The end result is only $1200 for repair not $3600 as quoted from the dealer. To add, shop owner also stated most trucks are coming in with the problems around the same mileage bracket of 55,000 to 65,000 miles.
2009Mar 23
Explorer LX V8
- Automatic transmission
- 104,000 miles
Before having the truck checked I knew there had to be an over problem with the 2003 Explorer and I was proven right but unfortunately Ford had not taken this into consideration. I still hold a car note on this and have only had this truck since 2007 it was bought used. Now what am I supposed to do?
2009Mar 15
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 69,324 miles
This is the second Explorer I have owned. What a dumb a$$ I am for buying a second one when I replaced the 1995 Explorer I had with two; count them !2! transmissions. I bought my 2003 about 2 years ago and it only has 69,000 miles on it and was working fine and then get in it Monday morning and the O/D light is flashing and taking a long time to shift from 2 - 3 gears. Then that afternoon the Check Engine light comes on. I don't know how long I will have to drive it so I have left it parked afraid I might do more damage. I was so shocked when I googled this problem and found out it was the transmission. I thought that Ford had fixed this problem. I am so flipping disgusted right now!!! Now I am going to have to put a lot of money into this truck to fix the transmission, not to mention fixing the two window motors that went out a couple months ago. I WILL NEVER EVER OWN ANOTHER FORD AGAIN!!!! If anyone knows how to get Ford to answer for this please email me and let me know. This is not fair!!!
2009Mar 07
Explorer XLT V8
- Automatic transmission
- 86,992 miles
Add another victim to the list...Took the vehicle into Ford cause the O/D light was flashing, complete rebuild. Aluminum case with a Solid steel piston!! Who gets paid millions of dollars to design a product thats complete garbage!! And they wonder why they are going bankrupt!! This is the last Ford I ever purchase all this truck has been is problems...if your looking at a used one...LOOK AT ANOTHER LOT!!! Try Nissan or Toyota!!
2009Mar 10
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 101,000 miles
As others, the economy has me scraping by as it is. I can't afford to fix the transmission so what do I do now? Give it back to the bank? Then I won't be able to even get another vehicle. Thanks Ford.....not!
2009Mar 11
Explorer Limited 4.6L
- Automatic transmission
- 75,807 miles
OD light flashing/ check transmission light on/no warning/ second slipping/ I have no fifth/ fluids changed no help/rebuild recommended
2009Feb 27
Explorer Eddie Bauer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 70,000 miles
I bought my first new vehicle in 2003 . Eddie Bauer explorer and pai 40k. at 40 thousand miles transfer case and rear end needed to be replaced and repaired.Just out of 36 thousand mile warranty. Now at 70k miles tranny needs to be replaced. I Called Ford and they said nothing they can do to help me out. I wish congress would tell them SORRY WE CANT GIVE YOU BILLIONS IN TAXPAYER MONEY to BAIL YOUR ASS OUT. Would love to see that .I will never buy another ford again neither will anyone in my family.
2009Feb 26
Explorer XLT 4L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 54,500 miles
54,500 miles I SHOULD NOT HAVE TO REPLACE A TRANSMISSION, especially I just bought the lease out 30 days ago and have kept up on everything so I did not take the extended warranty. What a piece of junk!!!!
2009Feb 19
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 75,000 miles
Dad worked for Ford, only bought Ford, but only because he received the employee discount. This is the 3rd Ford I have owned and disliked. Problem started around 75,000 miles, I bought it at 50,000 miles and this is my first problem, besides the "door open" light that is constantly turning on and off (I'm told this is also common on explorers). It's going to cost around 1750 to rebuild the trany at Columbus Transmission and I'm having it done. Hope it lasts...
2009Jan 12
Explorer XLT 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 98,458 miles
Well add me to the list. 2 weeks ago the O/D light is flashing and feel the transmission slipping. going to the shop next week...what a mess....Just what i was looking forward too...Im totally surprise to see all these complaints about the OD..I really wasnt expecting this.......way to go ford!!!
2009Jan 28
Explorer EB 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 111,500 miles
Looks like am just another customer that FORD neglected. Car seamed to work fine one moment, next thing you know there is flashing light, and bang everyone wants to charg $2500 to $3000 to either replace with a rebuilt or have the tranny rebuilt. You could save about $1000 on a used model with about 40K, but after reading these reviews I think we are gonna go with a new vehicle. FORD might help there cause getting some engineers to find out how to make a transmission that will last.
2009Jan 23
Explorer Limited V6
- Automatic transmission
- 79,800 miles
less than 80000 miles and i need a new trans mission now i see why Toyota's # 1 also hub bearings and a noisy rear end..
2008Dec 01
Explorer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 115,000 miles
Like others, the problem started with the o/d light flashing. Then the service engine soon light came on and car would not shift properly from 1st to 2nd. I was a happy Ford Explorer owner until now. Drove my '96 Explorer for 8 years without any major issues. I'm very disappointed in the 2003 and will probably make this my last Ford. Not fixing this issue - too pricey. I'll try to take advantage of some dealer overstocked inventory.
2009Jan 01
Explorer 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 100,000 miles
Ford really needs to do a recall. This is a piece of sh*t.... ford really means FOUND ON ROAD DEAD!!!!! I will never buy another ford again. I wouldn't even want it if I won one. The transmission is a joke.... We are one of the lucky ones and found an honest, good mechanic. If you are in Arizona you really should look up Shift Solid transmission and talk to nate not only does he get it right and fix the problem, he was the only one that was honest with me from the start which says a lot when dealing with this transmission... Do not take it to a FORD Mechanic they do not need any more of our hard earned money!!!!!
2009Jan 01
Explorer 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 68,000 miles
I am extremely shocked at the volume of complaints for this issue and the lack of attention Ford has given, or not given, to this obvious lemon issue. Count me in on the class action suit but with the estate of the auto industry today, I'll probably be paying for this repair out of the bailout money.
Looking for a reliable mechanic for help and am HONEST solution.
Any ideas?
2008Nov 17
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 106,000 miles
Had same problem that started with flashing O/D light. Took to local dealership for check, flashing had stopped but showed an error. Dealership told me it needed a transmission flush -- paid $178 for that. Two weeks later transmission became very clunky, almost to the point of not shifting. Took to dealership again ... they pulled transmission and said it was severely damaged. Had rebuilt transmission installed for $3,600. Got car back two days ago and so far all is well.
2008Nov 17
Explorer LX 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 68,000 miles
I havge a 2003 ford explorer (not worth capitalizing), which only has 68000 mi on it. I have taken great care of this vehicle despite numerous issues from the start. As a result I purchased the extended warranty which has recently expired. I too have had transmission failure. The dealer recommended replacement of the unit which was going to cost 3500. I called a local transmission place and they believe I can rebuild and will charge me approx 1200. If times weren't the way they are I would be purchasing a new vehice (Honda Pilot?) However, with the economy and the holidays I am left no choice. Ford has never been helpful!!!!!! With any issues and believe me there have been many!!! I should have ditched it along time ago. Needless to say I will NEVER purchase a ford again should they even survive this economy!!!!
2008Oct 27
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 78,324 miles
My wife's birthday on Monday, we went to lunch and noticed the o/d light flashing. The we noticed the gears slipping without ant noticed. I took the explorer to someone we trust to look at it. He said it was definitely the tranny. He said there was nothing that we did wrong it was Ford putting in transmissions that were designed to fail. Shame on you Ford! If you knew this was going to be a problem you have done a dis-service to the public. Thanks for screwing up my children s Christmas. Ford should have a new slogan" Have you called a tow-truck lately?"
2008Oct 06
Explorer Limited 3.6L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 76,000 miles
Blinking o/d light leads to failure of the transmission. My transmission is still working but shifting hard. I took it to a Mercury/Subaru dealer. I avoid Ford dealers, they are greedy. The dealer said $4265 to fix and an interesting comment. They will no longer be a Ford/Mercury dealer in about two weeks. They are located in Chicago and said the other dealer Lynch is also being cancelled. Perillo is the only one left at least in my area, North Chicago.
2008Aug 24
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 107,000 miles
I feel like all those people who invested in Enron. First, last May my vehicle was at my local dealership for 7 weeks up on a hoist waiting for a rear tie rod that could not be found in the country. Spent around $500 for a rental car which Ford refused to pay. Not under warranty but would have taken a few days to fix if Ford had the part available.
Now for what you wanted to hear. Went down at 107,000 while traveling in the UP (if from Michigan you know). OD light flashing and after a while the service engine soon light came on. Took it to Newberry Motors in Newberry, MI where they charged me $111 to plug my car in to a little computer that told them there were 3 errors that had to do with the transmission. I drove the car, made it back to our house a few hours away. Took it to a local shop. They replaced the control module with a new one which, when tested, showed 15 errors. They sent it back and replaced with another. He thought it solved the problem until a few days later we were back with the OD problem and shifting as well. I was directed to a transmission place by a friend of mine. The guy took me for a ride in the car and explained to me what was going on. He said it would cost $2000 but should only be $1700, since I already had the control module replaced, to rebuild the transmission. He said he would update it and make mods to it so I won't' have a problem with it again. He said other transmission places rebuild it like it was before which is of course bad. I hope this solves the problem. I dealt with Ford with my rear tie rod problem and had enough of their fake sympathy. My favorite quote is still from my wife when one of the Ford reps said "We understand your frustration." She replied, "NO, You don't! You drove to work in your car today!" We have 2 Hondas (Accord and CR-V) that run circles around the quality of this vehicle. No more Fords for us or my little girl when she gets older. My parents won't buy Fords because of my situation. Please contact if class action lawsuit. HONDAS RULE! Also, shame on you NEWBERRY MOTORS! Transmission guy did what it took you to do in 5 minutes and didn't charge me a thing!
2008Sep 26
Explorer 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 143,000 miles
I currently own a 2003 Ford Explorer. Although the vehicle has a lot of miles, it's a good vehicle except the o/d light started to blink on and off out of the blue. I have read several complaints it could be a list of things..transmission, fluid, twert converter (or whatever it's called). What bothers me is the fact that most people stated even after repairing it didn't stop. What am I to do? I am buried in the loan, the payments are astronomical, and with the problems I probably couldn't trade if I tried. What am I to do? It is really sad to see the number of people with the same complaints. FORD, please get a new staff of engineers. Stop selling LEMONS.
2008Mar 27
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 86,000 miles
I have owned a 2003 ford explorer since March of 2004. In march of 2008 the transmission light began flashing all the time, and it shifts hard shifting from 2nd to third gear. Ford says it may be a problem with it and I may have to have transmission replaced. After reading numerous complaints about ford and these transmissions, why haven't they covered the transmission? I will never buy a ford again.
2008Jun 01
Explorer V8
- Automatic transmission
- 115,000 miles
Well it all started about 3 months ago when I was casually driving and noticed the truck didn't want to go into reverse easily (clunk), then slipped. Took it to a garage and they had me see a transmission shop for analysis. I was told the solenoid was bad and it was replaced and not more then a week went by and it started slipping in first and second now, the tac racing around 4-5 grand before the truck started to move. I returned to the shop. The solenoid was replaced again and I was told that these problems can sometimes happen and that new parts have about a 17% yield to fail. Well let me tell ya the next time (3rd) time, about another week later, the O/D light comes on and wont stop and the truck is really clunking hard into gear. Then I find out this is due to the fact the failure code boosts the pressure in the tranny to act as a safety feature, but it drops hard into gear. This repeated itself about two more times with the mechanic always scratching his head hoping he had it solved this time. I was now getting the "check engine light" as well with the O/D light blinking. I've been in and out of this shop seven times and finally opted to purchase a rebuilt Ford tranny. I figure I will get the 3 year warranty and this should solve my problems. I bring the truck back to the tranny shop (7th) visit and have the Ford tranny put it. The mechanic like all the times before after replacing solenoids tells me he road tested it and its fine. I drive the truck home with no problems. The very next day with my warranty Ford rebuilt tranny I decide to go for a road test and don't get a mile from the house when the O/D light comes on again and I feel the truck slipping and clunking. This is total bullshit now, and I'm fed-up with this piece of crap. $3,100.00 for a tranny that fails the next day !!!! 17% percent failure my ass! lets try about 100% since I've been trying to get this thing fixed. If this is the best Ford can do they better come up with some better ideas. No wonder there market share in the auto industry is failing big time, they don't stand behind what they design and build. The real kicker is I called the warranty hotline today for Ford and was speaking to a tech representative who told me the problem might be in my wiring harness, maybe its dirty and the electrical signal spikes, setting off my O/D light, possibly no tranny problem at all. For the lost time from work (in and out of the garage) and money spent on gas and aggravation this problem has caused me, other vehicles without the FORD sticker are looking a lot more dependable. TIP** Stay away from Dodge as well, the transmission repair owner told me if it weren't for Ford and Dodge he would be out of business. I'm wondering if this problem will ever be fixed, its not looking to promising. What do you have to say for yourselves Ford? (Fix Or Repair Daily) this saying is ringing true in this and so many other cases I've read online here. Dammit step up and be accountable to your transmission problems.
2008Jun 01
Explorer XLS
- Automatic transmission
- 71,000 miles
The O/D off light starting flashing on Sunday without any warning. On Monday on my way home from work, it started flashing again. Then on Tuesday on my way to work, it flashed and it jerked when switching gears. I immediately contacted Ford to see if my truck was covered under warranty, and of course not. I then called a Ford dealership to see if they give me a possible heads-up on what the problem could be and was told no......just bring it in and they would run a diagnosis for a fee and get back with me. This car is only 5 years old with 71,000 miles, so I refuse to let Ford touch it. They are the ones who build it, so why would I trust them to diagnosis a problem if they cannot build a reliable car. I ended up taking the car to a locale transmission mechanic and he diagnosis the problem as a possible solenoid problem because 2nd and 5th gear were missing and to exactly identify the problem I will have to pay more (around $185.00). I am hoping that is the problem and nothing more because I rather pay for that then to replace a whole transmission.
I think this is a problem that Ford is aware of and does not want to take responsibility for. I can only imagine why the company is doing so horrible. This is the 2nd Ford I have owned and traded the 1st one in for a Nissan and was a fool to let the Nissan go for another Ford.
If anyone has had the same problem, can you please tell me the outcome?
2008Jun 01
Explorer XLT
- Automatic transmission
- 66,500 miles
The transmission and shifting have been kind of rough in this vehicle since purchase (new). Based on the number of complaints here this must be common with the Ford Explorer. Looks like this is going to cost a few thousand and Ford doesn't look like they will stand behind it. What a POS. 66K miles and the major component of the vehicle that makes it work fails. FU Ford.
2008May 15
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 90,000 miles
I have a 2003 Ford Explorer XLT V6. 90,000 miles. Today the O/D Off light is blinking and I notice gears slipping while I drive.
The Service Engine Soon light IS NOT ON.
What are the chances that it's just a bad sensor or the tranny fluid is low? I have no way of checking these things myself.
If my dealership tells me that I need a whole new tranny, is there a way I can ask them to show me "the codes" that the computer spits out to verify what they are saying is truthful?
Thanks for any help provided.
2008Apr 10
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 94,000 miles
Well...after purchasing a Ford Focus and having more problems than one person deserves...I resolved - NO MORE FORDS for this girl!
I inherited a 2003 Ford Explorer from my late father and in the back of my mind I'm hearing my mantra - NO MORE FORDS but he kept the vehicle in pristine condition and Ford builds better trucks than cars - right? Wrong!!!
Two weeks after driving the Explorer from PA to Florida - waaa laaa!! The transmission dies. Now I have two crappy Fords. I called the dealership to explain to them my problem - O/D Off light blinking and Service Engine Soon light on...hard shifts when it shifts or not shifting at all in 2nd or 3rd gear. Basically, it would appear I'm going to need an new transmission. I can't afford the repair so it's been parked until I can take it in. I called Ford to see if my late father would happen to have some kind of extended warranty or what they could do for me. No extended warranty and the Ford Customer Relationship person (what a crock is that) kept me on the phone asking a bunch of questions and seemed sympathetic and then said - sorry - nothing we can do and all repairs must be out of pocket. When I mentioned I found a ton of information on the internet regarding this very same problem for the very same vehicle and that I was surprised Ford wouldn't stand behind their product, she replied they can't do anything about information found online. Nice.
So let me address you here Ford (as well as sending in a very well versed letter)...your new commercials touting "Quality # 1" makes you a bunch of big fat liars. Your cars suck...your "customer relationship people" suck...your lack of responsibility sucks and I promise you...I will never own another one of your vehicles as long as I shall live. Further...I think Henry is probably rolling over in his grave at what you've done with his company and I fully expect you to completely go under before this decade is out. You had better step back and take a very good look at yourselves...in today's economy and with stronger competition, you will never survive and I will celebrate the day your perish.
2008Apr 09
Explorer XLT 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 100,000 miles
This is just one of many issues I've had with my very first Explorer I purchased new. I'll only address the tranny issue I had this week. First off, I�m religious about maintenance, and change fluids regularly. In this instance, the OD light started flashing and I could feel the transmission slipping. Thank goodness I was close to a dealership and could drive it right in. After leaving it for a day, they determined it was a solenoid/servo piston failure. They repaired it and flushed the system - total cost of $660. The technician claimed this was a common problem and he had done several repairs. Like many other people on this site - I will NEVER buy another Ford. I can tell you I've had rear end issues, power window issues, leaky seals, and other annoyances that have just put me over the top. This is it. Lesson learned about Ford quality. I�m in the market now looking at more reliable SUV's.
2007Dec 01
Explorer Eddie Bauer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 76,000 miles
I didn't know this was such a common problem until i went on this website! To make things short, my "check transmission" light would go on and my "O/D off" light would flash. It would pop up after 5 minutes of me driving and if I press reset, the lights would pop up again after 10 minutes. It was really annoying.
I went to four different places, the first was the dealership. They quoted me $2400 to replace my torque converter, solenoid, and body valve assembly. Not to mention the $109 charge for them to tell me this. I didn't know at the time that there were plenty of places that would do the diagnostic for FREE!
Then off to the famous AAMCO...had my car for a day to tell me it could be a computer problem that they would have to take to a specialist. I took off with my car and never went back.
Went to a local place next. They wanted to replace my whole transmission for $2700, 3 yr warranty...blah, blah, blah.
Last place was another local tranny spot. They were the most honest with me. Told me to replace the solenoid pack because your car doesn't know whether it's an electrical or a mechanical problem when the lights go off. Then if that wasn't the solution, they would replace the torque converter. I was quoted $540 for the solenoid and an additional $1800 for the torque converter if it needed to be done.
Talking to a bunch of mechanical savvy coworkers, i had no symptoms of a torque converter issue. so i went ahead and replaced my solenoid back. After it was fixed, they told me that was NOT the solution and that I would have to come in again to get the torque converter fixed. To my amazement, after 2 days, the light went off!! I haven't done anything else with my car and it's been driving like it's always been. I spent the $540 and called it good....
2008Feb 23
Explorer XLS
- Automatic transmission
- 78,000 miles
Friday it runs like a champ and Saturday it runs like a chump. Started out by noticing that it was not shifting from 1st to 2nd very well and then the O/D light started flashing. Took it to a dealer to have it looked at - $90 later they say the answer is to replace it will a reman unit for $3829 with a 3 yr 75K warranty. WOW. Considering I just paid it off at the end of December that stung quite a bit so I decided to start researching. After calls to several trans shops I decided to take it somewhere else. They did some more looking and gave me specifics of what was wrong (dealer just hooked it to the computer which I could have done at Autozone for free) and they are now rebuilding it for $2043. Comes with a 1 yr 24K warranty which can be upgraded for a little bit more if you want to. I've also had a window regulator defect which shattered my drivers side window, a wheel bearing go out around 50K and the back panel on my hatch crack. Luckily, all that was under warranty though.
2008Jan 24
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 66,800 miles
I complained about the transmission the very first visit to the dealership for regular service, but they could not duplicate the problem. I knew something just was not right. After 66k miles, the O/D light started blinking and the check engine light came on. Took it to the dealership, replace the solenoid, but was still slipping. They suggested a rebuilt or a brand new for $2800 or $3800. I have not had any problems out of my truck, bought it brand new, so I would not have to deal with these kinds of issues. I am pissed!!
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A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Nov 01
Explorer 4.0L V6
what a piece of @#$% so many complaints about this trans and ford wont do #@%*ing thing about it. thanks ford, still paying on the damn thing and need a tranny at $3600 are f@@@ing kidding me. dealer says needs new tranny @ $3600,4 new wheel bearings @ $1700,and a new power steering pump @ $500. as far as im concerned all fords are @#%&. im a staunch union supporter but this making me want to buy foreign car. ford knows its crap. also never pulled or towed a damn thing with the truck cant imagine if i had. dam thing probably would have exploded on the road. hey ford heres a new name for it FORD EXPLODER
Chris W.
Milwaukee, WI, USA
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