7.9
pretty badTypical Repair Cost:
$2,101.00
Average Mileage:
55,667 miles
Total Complaints:
161 complaints
Most common solutions:
- not sure (90 reports)
- replace shift solenoid (34 reports)
- replace transmission (23 reports)
- rebuild transmission (11 reports)
- replace shift solenoid and bands (2 reports)
- servo pin bore kit (northlandtransmission.com) (1 reports)
transmission problem
This problem may be covered under warranty. Ask your Ford dealer.
Helpful Websites About 2004 Ford Explorer transmission slipping, shifts hard
2006May 01
Explorer XLT V6 3.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 32,000 miles
My transmission delayed in reverse then jolted. Trans. slips between 2-3 gears and the rpm's rev like crazy. Dealer tried to do a quick fix on it at 32K miles, but at 92K miles now, still have the same issue and it's getting worse. I guess Ford doesn't want repeat customers. They feel there is no safety issues which is why they don't do a recall plus too much expense. The dealer said he would help me, but has not done much for this pre-existing condition. Don't buy FORD or from Future Ford of Roseville CA
2009Sep 01
Explorer XLT 4.0V6
- Automatic transmission
- 80,000 miles
TRANS. SHIFTS VERY HARD IN REVERSE, SLIPS BETWEEN 2ND &3RD !!!!
I BELIEVE FORD SHOULD FIX THIS AT NO CHARGE TO CONSUMER !!!
TRIED TO CALL FORD TO COMPLAIN, BUT, CHECK THIS OUT !!! THEY WANT YOU TO PAY $IO.OO PER CALL TO REPORT THE PROBLEM !!!!
1-800-848-0991 WHAT A F-------- JOKE THEY ARE ! I'VE BOUGHT MY LAST FORD !!!!!
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Apr 03
Explorer 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 52,000 miles
never again ford. you got me once and that is enough.
2008Jun 10
Explorer XLT 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 51,000 miles
American automakers. DON'T ASK US TO BE PATRIOTIC AND BUY AMERICAN CARS and then do this crap! 2004 Ford Explorer ..Transmission ..delayed shifting into drive and reverse. Shift wildly and hard into reverse so much I hit my wife's truck behind me. This HAS to be fixed by Ford. this truck shifts wildly on the road and IS DANGEROUS! God forbid anyone gets into an accident!
I will never ever buy an american car again! I have 2 american Ford Explorers (2004 and 2002) and 2 major transmission issues. The 04 is the worse!
FORD=Garbage
2008Nov 15
Explorer Limited V8
- Automatic transmission
- 88,000 miles
Well, it's been awhile since I viewed the complaints from my vehicle, but here we are with the complaints still piling up.
Last October I had my transmission rebuilt and no more slipping into reverse, but I still don't feel like it's 100% operating capacity. It still hesitates once in a while to engage into drive.
All I can say is that I'm ditching this vehicle as soon as I can, no more Ford's for this guy. Never will buy a Ford again. My only exception would be a vintage 66-68 mustang, but that's just a completely differently vehicle from the junk they build today.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Jul 14
Explorer EX
- Automatic transmission
- 82,000 miles
From what I have read on here...This is an obvious problem with the 2004 vehicle (as a matter of fact, the top 3 worst cars ever built were the 2002, 2003, and 2004 Ford Explorer). As an average American who struggles to make it from paycheck to paycheck with 2 kids in daycare, it is RIDICULOUS that an "American" built manufacturer will NOT stand behind it's product. The abs light is on, the transmission doesn't want to go in gear which jerks the whole vehicle which in turn completely messed up my drive train...A whole new and big expense! Estimated cost to fix...$2500!
2008Jul 01
Explorer LX V6
- Automatic transmission
- 40,000 miles
FORD IS NOT LIKE IT USED TO BE - 3 Issues below are common complaints that For has not attempted to resolve. Poor quality and higher prices ar is causing folks to move away from Ford.
1) ABS Light Stays on
2) Crack developed in back tailgate under window
3) Transmission slips and shifts hard ito reverse, very dangerous
2008Jun 14
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 52,000 miles
Our transmission has the same problems as the rest. Jerky in drive, jumps into reverse.
My father-in-law worked at Ford for 40 years, so my wife has been an ardent Ford supporter since we married. Many years later we are starting to look for a car for our son. To my surprise she's looking at the other "American" manufacturers more than Ford. I think Ford has lost another long time customer.
2009Jul 21
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 64,000 miles
Like most of all the other complaints, this was a problem from the beginning, we had it in the shop several times and were told that there was nothing wrong with it, the last time we took it in we were told that there was a recall on the tranny fluid and that once they replaced it there would be no more problems, wrong, now I have to pay out of pocket $2000.00 or more to have the tranny fixed, when Ford should have fixed it right the first time. I will never buy another ford as they do not stand behind their product, it is no wonder they are in financial trouble what with as many complaints that I have read.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Mar 18
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 125,376 miles
My car when I put it in reverse it shifts really hard there should be something ford could have done to make there vehicle better than what this one has turned out to be
2007Oct 16
Explorer XLS 4.6L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 47,500 miles
Put it in reverse and I tense up waiting for it to jump into gear. As I drive forward, right around 40 mph the tranny will jump again while the RPM's go from around 2k to almost 4k till it shifts into the next gear. Truck is great other than the transmission is garbage. Apparently Ford figured this out for the next generation because the problem is non-existant for any model 2006 and forward, and like any car maker they won't do anything about it. I've read about various fixes for this problem, to only have those people have the same problem start up again within 1-2 years of the fix and a couple thousand dollars. I'm not into wasting money, so I'll just deal with it til the sh*t dies, or till I get so sick of it I replace the transmission completely. Awesome how Ford knows about it, has changed it for future models, but pisses on all saps who have the bad tranny. Best part is Ford doesn't know how to fix it either! Classic.
2008Sep 28
Explorer Eddie Bauer
- Automatic transmission
- 40,389 miles
I bought my lovely 2004 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer Edition in 2005, and after a year of it being problem free, we had a massive flood, which had me going to insurance to get the engine and interior replaced (which took 2 months for Ford to get the carpets and engine replaced).
After i FINALLY got it back, I had to go back to Ford 3 TIMES because the engine didn't feel like it had any power to it, only for my husband to finally check under the hood himself, and find that they had put in twice the amount of oil in the car. So we went back to ford and TOLD them what they obviously missed the first 2 times, and they blamed it on Minute Lube, because that's where we usually go- but common sense. We just got the car back in less than 1 week, why the hell would we go for another oil change! DUH FORD DUH!
After that was done and over with, one cold January day, the explorer just stopped working, wouldn't start, tried boosting it, nothing, thought it was the starter, NOPE..find out that it was the PAT system. For some reason, our keys just didn't have the right code and basically locked us out of our own vehicle. It cost me $1000. for them to get my car started!
And the worst part!? AFTER they gave me back my car, that's when my O/D light started flashing, my service engine soon light came on, my check tires light came on and my transmission light came on. and (this is the best part), they said that it may fix itself if I just keep driving it! But no way was I driving a whiplash prone car in winter, so I just parked it.
Its June now, and I decided to see what Ford can do about it. After talking to the lady on the phone, she told me that my car was still under the power train warranty and to bring it in. (this is when i found out that, my car no longer shifts hard. In fact, It doesn't shift at all- i am constantly in 5th gear *roll eyes here*) A day after my car was brought in, I had a phone call from the same lady from Ford telling me that it WASNT under warranty and that i had to pay $105. for the diagnostic and another $120 for them to take out the pan to find out the problem, because the diagnostic didn't give them any information. (I had a diagnostic done by A1 Transmission, who came up with the exact same information for free!) Now, my car is stuck at Ford, because I refuse to pay for a diagnostic that came up empty handed and pay even more to get another test done, which will just tell me that the transmission needs to be replaced and it will cost $3000. Just waiting to meet with my insurance company and go from there.....
I wish I didn't even contact Ford! I wish i never bought a Ford.. in fact. I will NEVER buy another Ford.
2009Jun 05
Explorer XLS
- Automatic transmission
- 51,600 miles
Stalled at a traffic light on a state highway (speed limit 50 mph between lights) just going from a dead stop at red to accelerating at green! Scary, because I was on a blind curve and stalled in the fast lane! Thought there was a problem with my 50k mile service at Jiffy Lube, but now see there has been a pretty big problem all around. Anyone gotten any satisfaction?
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2008May 25
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 70,000 miles
This is follow up to my complaint #58.
We had the transmission replaced (after emailing, calling, kicking and screaming for several months to ford.) The cost of the transmission was $2900 through our own mechanic and luckily it was a Ford Transmission with a 3 year/100K mile warranty. Three weeks and only 1000 miles later, complete transmission failure with the BRAND NEW transmission.
Luckily it was under warranty still. We were coming back from a weekend trip that involved a 2 and a half hour drive each way and BARELY made it home.
This is a serious problem that Ford needs to own up to.
2007May 16
Explorer XLT 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 55,302 miles
Yet again, in this time of car companies telling us that "We build great car". Another lemon is down the road....This is my fist SUV, which has great size for a family and there 2 dogs. But this will be my first and last Ford ever!!!! Quality is not job #1....This has been one big head ache after another....What a pice of CRAP!!!
2009May 20
Explorer XLT 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 72,888 miles
Don't really know if bitching here will do anything! I have a 2004 Explorer with major transmission problems. I already spoke with someone at the Ford 1-800-392-3673 #. What a waste of time. Will not take it to the dealer. I won't settle for a bandaid. Lets face it they're going to quick fix it only, knowing you'll have to bring it back for more work somewhere down the road. My complaint is the same as most of the others here. O/D light flashing, service engine soon light is on. Shifts real hard into 2nd, bangs into reverse. Took it to an independent tranny shop. They said it's going from 1st to 3rd, then 3rd to 5th. WONDERFUL!!!! With only 72,886 miles I wouldn't expect this.
We've been ford people forever, this is my 4th Explorer.........not so much anymore. Always buy American we say. For what? Tired of getting ****** by these "American" companies. Once this beast is fixed and I can unload it, I'll be going against my life-long commitment of buying only American. Lets face it, today things are made to break. The good ole days are gone. So is my trust in Ford products.
2009Jan 30
Explorer Limited 4.6L V8
- Automatic transmission
- 45,000 miles
I, as well, have a ford exploder that has been excellent until it started pausing and jerking into reverse. Then it began feeling as though the engine might fall out of the bottom of the car while it was shifting. It takes a while to engage when upshifting. I have taken it to the dealer twice. "We can't replicate the problem or find anything wrong!" I found the original recall letter stating, "Your vehicle was filled at the assembly plant with a transmission fluid formulation that, over time, may cause delayed and harsh reverse transmission engagements. Under Customer Satisfaction Program 04B22, and at no charge to you, your dealer will install a transmission fluid additive that will correct the fluid formulation and maintain the shift quality of your transmission. The longer that your vehicle is operated with the original fluid, the greater the possibility that your vehicle will experience transmission shifting concerns in the future." TRANSLATION: This is totally our fault that your car is currently experiencing transmission problems!!!!!! I'll see if this gets me anywhere with FORD. Unless they fix it, they've lost my business!
2009May 13
Explorer XLT 40 V6
- Automatic transmission
- 127,000 miles
Just fixed numerous problems with this explorer just to find out the transmission is going out.
2009May 11
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 46,000 miles
I have driven Ford vehicles for 40 years and this Explorer is a big disappointment. It had the rough reverse from the very start. Had the fluid recall taken care of immediately but not a cure by any means. Has been terrible in P to R and highway shift is hard. Has been worse lately. Scares me! Talked with my dealer today and let him know I am not impressed with Ford.I have 46,000 miles on and this rig doesn't hold a candle to a 96' of my friends with 140,000 miles! The price we pay for their product and the quality we receive is a joke! Such an expensive fix!!! My next rig will be Chevrolet,Dodge anything but a Ford!!!
2006Feb 12
Explorer LX
- Automatic transmission
- 30,000 miles
I bought a brand new 2004 ford explorer with 30 miles on it. Had a recall on transmission fluid, took it to dealer they replaced fluid. Truck began to jerk when shifting of gears. Took back to dealer in 2007 they replaced some type of noid switch. Heck I dont Know. Rear window will not roll down, car still sound as if its not in gear and CD player is stuck not ejecting cd's. I just called dealer as we speak they told me to bring it in but I was responsible for each diagnostic check. As much as I loved my truck, I must say that I will not buy another ford anything. I should have stuck with my Nissan's. I have had problems with this truck since 2005 and to no avail. I tried to call 1-800-848-0991 and a recording told me fro a charge of $4.99 they would give me another number to call. Something has got to be done about this and I am so hurt,disappointed and pissed like the rest of you all about the lack of help from Ford. Its, ok though I'm a firm believer that God will prevail. If a class action suit is started someone please advise. In the meantime, I continue to pray and ride.
2007Apr 03
(reported on)Explorer XLS V6
- Automatic transmission
- 25,000 miles
At 25,000 miles I got the recall saying they need to put an additive in the transmission. I tried to make the appointment and all the local Ford dealers were out of the additive and didn't know when they were getting it. By the time it came into stock my transmission was leaping into reverse after a brief delay and clunking while upshifting at low speeds of 25 to 35 mph. The dealership said I now need the shift solenoid replaced. This was all done under warranty. Now at 70,000 miles, it's happening again and it is not under warranty.... I don't know how much this will cost yet as my appointment is tomorrow.
2007Apr 04
(reported on)Explorer XLS V6
- Automatic transmission
- 48,000 miles
We need to all get together, and contact Ford concerning a "recall", or repair on their transmissions. I've never been a Ford person myself, but decided to give them a try. I thought that the Explorer looked pretty sharp. Now I see why I have never owned a Ford before, and unless something is done about this problem, by them, their future purchases of vehicles by me, or my Family doesn't look very bright. I guess the old saying still stands,"Fix or repair daily". Or, "Found on the road dead".
2007Apr 03
(reported on)Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 25,000 miles
I wish I would have checked out this website BEFORE I purchased a used 2004 Explorer. We had a 1995 Explorer with 150,000 miles that we just traded in. We loved our Explorer and wanted a newer one with a 3rd row seat to fit our growing kids. I love the new car. BUT, after reading the posts on this site, I took it out for a ride (my husband has been driving it for the last 3 days that we have owned it). When I shift from drive to reverse, the car hesitates a few seconds and then bang! Like it was shot out of a cannon. VERY SCARY! I am calling the dealership that I bought it from the morning. I only bought it 5 days ago. Of course the dealership has a return policy of 3 days with no questions asked. I wish I would have checked for this problem 2 days sooner! I am sure they are going to tell me that they will service it and everything will be OK (according to them). I am so disappointed. We like the vehicle but the safety of our family is the most important thing. I was up all night last night worried about it. We went to a reputable dealer, checked out the Carfax report but didn't put it from Drive to reverse when we test drove it. And my husband didn't need to do it in the couple of days that he drove to work. It is OK going from park to drive or reverse. It is when you are in drive and go to reverse and reverse to drive. YIKES! I never expected this.
Does anyone know, since I didn't buy this car new, does the Lemon Law apply if I take it in 3 times for the same issue or is that only for cars purchased new?
I am wishing for my 1995 with 150,000 miles back now!
2007Apr 04
(reported on)Explorer XLT 4.0 V6
- Automatic transmission
- 2,800 miles
When you shifted into revearse gear, the transmission would hesitate and then slam into gear. Would also hesitate when taking off in forward from a dead stop. Had to take it to the dealer 3 times before they agreed that there was a problem AND they would fix it. They claimed they had to have a regional manager test drive it and give the ok to go ahead and fix it. When I first encountered the problem, my first thought was to check the transmission fluid... but there is no transmission dipstick!! I looked under the truck and saw transmission fluid dripping from the bellhousing. I had no way of knowing how much trans. oil was lost. Dealer told me it was "overflow" and that there is a special tool and procedure to check the transmission oil level. I prefer the dipstick method!! I have no faith that the transmission is going to last too long after warranty is up. Had it in for the differential whine and it's going in again for the same problem again (see seporate complaints under drive train)
2007Jan 10
Explorer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 86,000 miles
This started slipping when Ford added something to the transmission after a recall. They said there was a problem but prior to the recall I had none. It appears to be caused by whatever they added that caused the problem.
2008Jun 01
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 59,000 miles
Just a while ago, I was going to enter an average post just to complain about the pathetic transmission in my 2004 Explorer XLT. But, after just spending 30 minutes on the phone with Ford Motor Company, my blood is boiling and I am ready to blow!!!!!
I spoke with a very polite woman on the phone from FORD and told her my concerns.....
1. My transmission was slipping between 2nd and 3rd gear
2. The car was hesitating between park & reverse and drive & reverse
3. Loud "bang" and massive jolt when the car finally would engage in reverse
4. The crack on my rear tailgate under the rear window
5. the list goes on.......
After a brief conversation and giving her my contact information, she asked me what I would like Ford Motor Company to do for me today. Naturally, I said, "I want them to replace my transmission!!!". She asked me if I would hold while she looked up the information on the Explorer. After holding for approximately 5 minutes, she came back and told me that there was nothing that Ford could do for me....as if I expected her to say anything different. I explained to her that I knew it was not her fault, but that Ford should be ashamed of itself. Ashamed for selling a transmission that they knew was faulty, ashamed for not informing the consumer of the problem, and even more ashamed for not standing behind their products!!!! Now, I am a strong believer in "Buy American" as I am a Union Print Shop Owner.... but, if our American Manufacturers are not willing to stand behind their product, how can they expect the American consumer to stay loyal to American Made Products? I have owned numerous cars in my lifetime..some Dodge, some Ford, and when I was younger and uneducated about buying American I even owned a couple of Mazda vehicles. The unfortunate part of owning all of these different cars is that it made me aware that the quality and customer service of the foreign vehicles beat the quality and customer service of any of the american made products. I don't claim that all American Made Vehicles are in the same category as the Explorer that I am now stuck with - I am just trying to make a point.... Ford needs to stick behind its products!!! They need to take care of the consumers who have been filling their pockets for the last 75 years!!! I have to admit... I will most likely never buy another Ford again as long as I live!!!! Not that the lack of one car buyer will hurt them, but it is just the point!!!!
Before I go..... to all of you experiencing the same problem.... we need to flood Ford Motor Company's phone lines with these complaints. If nothing else, at least we will cost them $$$$$ in time spent on the phone listening to all of us complain. The number that I just called and actually spoke to a human being is..... 1-800-392-3673
PLEASE CALL THEM - PLEASE CALL THEM - PLEASE CALL THEM!!!!!!!
2009Mar 20
Explorer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 69,000 miles
69,000 miles and I can't get it into second gear without slipping and noise! Cannot afford such a fix for a car I haven't finished paying for yet!
2009Mar 16
Explorer XLT Sport 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 26,500 miles
Only 26,500 miles on the Ford 2004 Explorer under normal driving, no off road at all. Started having shift delay problem when shifting from P to R and from N to D in late 2008. Heard big 'bang' when shifting from P to R and from N to D. Had it tested with dealer and 2nd gear problem. Spent $3200 to replace the transmission completely. Sick of the transmission.
2009Mar 28
Explorer LS V6
- Automatic transmission
- 70,000 miles
WE BOUGHT THIS FORD EXPLORER ON OCT 13 2007 . HAD IT SERVICED AND HAD OIL CHANGED AND NEVER HAD ANY WARNING ABOUT WHAT WAS ABOUT TO HAPPEN.. NO IDIOT LIGHTS NOTHING. JUST STARTED TO SLIP AND NOW SITS IN OUR DRIVEWAY. FORD SAYS THERE IS NO RECALL AND THEY DO NOT WANT THE BLAME. OUR MECHANIC SAYS IT WILL COST ANYWHERE FROM $3.000 TO 6.000 TO FIX . HE HAS HAD AT LEAST 5 TO 7 PEOPLE COME IN ALREADY IN THE [PAST MONTH COMPLAINING ABOUT THE SAME THING.SAME TRUCK.) HE SAID IT
IS A TRANSMISSION MODULE AND YOU HAVE TO ORDER IT FROM A DEALER.
AND THE KICKER IS I HAVE TO KEEP PAYING MY LOAN PAYMENTS WHILE IT SITS THERE DAY AFTER DAY. / (FORD) ( FIX OR REPAIR DAILY) FOUND ON ROAD DEAD. FORD HAS TO STAND UP AND FIX THESE PROBLEMS AND STOP HIDING
BEHIND THE DOOR AND LETTING US PAY FOR THEIR MISTAKES. WHY SHOULD THEY GET A BAIL OUT. I WILL NEED ONE AFTER I GET THE BILL I WILL BE IN THE POOR HOUSE. WILL THEY FIX IT THEN . WHEN I DON'T HAVE A JOB AND I'M SITTING ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITH MY HANDS OUT ASKING FOR FOOD AND SHELTER. WHO IS THE GRIM REAPER NOW.
2008Oct 15
Explorer SLT 4.6L V8
- Automatic transmission
- 40,000 miles
http://www.ireport.com/docs/DOC-123651
read this site i posted this on cnn.com in hopes they would put this issue on the television to hopefully inform ford that they need to get a recall out there for this problem this and the rear glass door cracking you can read it thanks bye
2006Sep 01
Explorer Limited V8
- Automatic transmission
- 15,000 miles
Typical crappy Ford transmission! Grrr...Every time I take off from a stopped position, I can feel the transmission slip until it catches finally then the vehicle moves forward.
2009Jan 03
Explorer XLT Sport 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 50,000 miles
Probably the worst (and most expensive to fix) problems with my vehicle. Had the recall-issued "solenoid additive" work done the first year with the vehicle. But now the transmission is shifting hard at times and when driving, it will delay shifting into 2nd and 3rd gears once in a while. The shift will be rough and I'm just waiting for it to die on me. NO WAY can I afford to pay 2-4 grand for a new transmission right now... I still owe like 8,000 on the vehicle and am barely making the monthly payments as is. Total BS! The other issues are minor compared to this... action must be taken. Ford is not going to do anything but insist on taking my money.
2008Jun 01
Explorer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 33,000 miles
This is my 4th Explorer, I can honestly say that this is the first one I have had any trouble at all with. I am experiencing hard shifts when I put it in reverse, slow shifting.
I am very frustrated because looking at this website it looks as if Ford Motor Co. doesn't get it. I am an American, who tries to buy made in America products, I am just wondering what Ford is thinking it is a no brainer that Good QUALITY vehicles= RETURNING CUSTOMERS! And Ford needs to stand behind this problem to help their faithful customers. I will be taking my explorer to the dealer to see what they suggest, but it looks to me by looking at other complaints on this problem IS THERE A TRUE FIX? I am a single mom almost have this explorer paid for, and was really wanting to try to save some money to buy a new one eventually. At this point I don't know if it will be a FORD that depends on the service I get at the dealership, and if Ford steps up to help fix this problem.
2005Sep 01
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 14,000 miles
My '04 EB Explorer has had the same transmission delayed / hard shift problem since it was new. Ford "fixed" it three or more times under warranty, but it was never really fixed. Ford also replaced my rear axle (limited slip) 3 times under warranty. After going to two good dealers who said it was "normal" for this type of transmission, which is ridiculous, I called and emailed the factory asking for a factory service rep to assist. Ford customer service refused repeatedly and advised me to go back to my dealer. This is definitely a Class Action type of failure that Ford needs to address. I won't buy another new Ford after 30 years of ONLY buying Fords.
Update from May 26, 2009: My 2004 Explorer had transmission problems since it was new. I brought it into 2 separate, but very good Ford dealers for warranty work but it still shifted hard, had bad delayed shifting, and slipped in first gear. I called the Ford 800 Customer Service several times but they refused to assist except to say "bring it to the Dealer" while under warranty. When the warranty expired, I again went into the dealer and paid $300 for fluid replacement and minimal other service but the problem remained. Last week, at around 87K miles, the transmission finally failed completely. No reverse, slipped in first, but had the same hard shift and delayed shift problems as when it was new. I replaced it with a rebuilt transmission from a local re builder and it shifts perfectly.
Contrary to what Ford advised, the original transmission did NOT have broken bands or any other broken parts. We suspect it leaked internally from the factory and finally failed enough to store a code. I have three Fords in my driveway and will NEVER buy another Ford again. Ford doesn't care at all, but they lost yet another long time loyal customer due to their own lack of customer service. Shame on you Ford.
2007Apr 03
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 40,000 miles
What can we do to make ford fix this? Does anyone know what can be done? I think Ford should stand behind this vehicle and fix the problem.
2009Feb 10
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 82,000 miles
All, my problem that occurred suddenly on 2/10/2008 out of nowhere is the same - transmission slipped while in Drive, then O/D light flashed. Then the vehicle completely shut off. I was finally able to make it home in 3rd gear driving slow, with the O/D light flashing and it died again. Based on a lot of reading on the internet regarding this wide-spread problem, that included reviews from Ford mechanics, the problem comes down to the casing and servo pin bore. This is for the 5R55 series and A4LD series transmissions. There is a transmission shop in Cameron, Wisconsin called Northland Transmissions that has a servo pin bore replacement kit for about $300 that upgrades the parts to brass: www.northlandtransmission.com. Their phone# is 715-458-2617. Unfortunately, I live in Florida, so I will be taking my vehicle to the dealership today and telling them about what I have found on the internet. Most of you are not going to be able to fix yourself; you need to drop the transmission to do this repair. Here's what it comes down to: Whatever Ford supplier Ford that originally built this transmission used aluminum for these parts, instead of stronger (and more expensive) metals or alloys that would last a long time. Therefore, this servo pin bore kitt will probably fix the problem for quite a long time, but it won't last forever because the entire transmission is cheaply built. The real fix would be a company that would totally recreate this transmission from scratch with strong parts that would retro-fit to the Explorers, Rangers, Mountaineers, and some Mustangs.
In the end, Ford made the sale, however they probably will not make repeat sales and that is looking like it will be their true demise.
2009Jan 07
Explorer Eddie Bauer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 32,000 miles
I bought a 2004 Explore in pristine condition. At 30,000 miles it started to hesitate when you put it in reverse. Then it got worse. They replaced the solenoid pack. The shifting is rough when it's cold. It shifts very hard between first and second. Luckily, the original owner had bought the extended warranty (which I transferred) so it's only $50 evertime I take it in.
2009Feb 05
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 75,000 miles
along with everyone else the hard slams into reverse..slipping between gears. I was at a stop light and when I drove off at about 20MPH it flet like I was dragging something under the SUV.. under 20 it seems ok. I had it taken to a local shop. I was 8 miles over my extended warranty..I guess i should have taken it in the first time I shifted into reverse and felt that great slam. I should know something tomorrow on what the problem ends up being.
2008Dec 15
Explorer XLT 4.0lV6
- Automatic transmission
- 94,000 miles
Same complaint as everyone else, it started shifting so hard in reverse that I had to end up having my rearend on the vehicle replaced which was going to cause between $2140 - 1500,00, I . It still continued to shift hard, and I was informed that if I did not have the transmission rebuilt which is going to cause me anywhere between $1650.00 - $2350.00 depending on who I take it to. I was informed that if I did not have the transmission rebuilt more then likely I would end up having to replace the rearend again, because the shift is just that hard. I found a used rearend at a pull n pay lot and had it replaced for $800.00. Now, I ride the bus to work and just parked the damn thing until I can save the money to have the transmission rebuilt. However, from what I am reading, this still might not solve the problem.
2008Dec 01
Explorer 4x4 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 52,000 miles
I looked at the ford website today, feb !st 2009, I have found nothing on this ,yet I hear of so many with the same problem. One of the workers at my local gas station asked if it was a 2004 . I said it was and he said his parents was too and doing the exact same thing! He said he thought it was recalled but i haven't seen anything. This is going to cost a lot to fix ,and in this economy ,I sure could use the money elsewhere. Ford needs to step up, this is no coincidence,and no fault of ours.
2009Jan 30
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 65,000 miles
OMG!! I just bought this vehicle yesterday. Used from a dealership, and I am a first time buyer with no credit. First of all I got ripped off which I just found out today, second of all my CD Player does not work at all, third of all my 4wd doesn't work properly (which was the whole reason I bought it was to take it on the beach), and the transmission is totally out of sync, it jerks my and my family all over hell! I have had it for less than 24 hours, and after stumbling upon this website, I am terrified. Worst of all, in the state of VA once you sign the papers you can't change your mind..... What to do.... I wonder what else is gonna screw up next!
2006Jan 18
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 55,000 miles
I have repaired and replaced hundreds of these transmission, If you have a 5r55w or 5r55s trans it is junk. An overhaul will not fix it the case is the fault.
2006Jul 11
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 17,000 miles
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Complaint Photos
I recommend to all who've added a complaint to contact 1 (800) MY-LEMON
www.MyLemon.com
2009Jan 16
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 72,000 miles
Harper Ford and the Ford motor company will not stand behind this vehicle at all.
2008Aug 01
Explorer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 500,000 miles
I just put a complaint on here and then my husband called Ford Company at 1-800-848-0991 and talked to someone and told them about all the complaints I read and about my car and the lady he talked to said everyone with this problem needs to call them and report it.. Thats how recalls are taken care of.. Lets hope that if all you guys call we can get this recalled!!! Any one reading this please call that number and bitch bitch bitch!!!!!!! She said they have had a couple reports on this but not enough... CALL THIS NUMBER!!! GET OUT EXPLORERS FIXED!!!!!!
2008Aug 01
Explorer 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 50,000 miles
I bought my explorer in august and its been a nightmare since.. Last winter, five months after I got it, the tranny started to shift hard in reverse, I mean shifting hard enough to jerk you.. My brother went to take it to work (hes a tranny guy) and on his way it started grinding and wouldn't get up to speed.. He said the third shift gear was shot too... Anyways, I wound up taking it to my ford dealer instead.. I got charged $800.00 because my four wheel drive was rusted and corroded and locked in, it needed a hub bearing and other stuff.. I picked up my car days later and it was still shifting hard, I asked them why and they said it didn't do that for them.. WHATEVER!!!! I took it back up to them and they replaced something(Im a chic i don't know the part) and said there was a bulletin on this part so they had to replace it, then charged me $625.00!!! I took my explorer to my cousin whos been a transmission specialist for 30 yrs and he said hed have to rebuild it to find the problem and it would cost me 1,000.00 with his "family discount"!!!! Ive had this explorer for a year and have put way more in to it than I should have.. All Ive ever wanted was an explorer and now I tell people NOT to buy one! With all these complaints Ford needs to fix the problem and quit making bad cars!!!! Im seriously pissed off!!!
2008Jul 01
Explorer XLS V6
- Automatic transmission
- 93,300 miles
When I shift into reverse, it takes a few seconds to get in gear and then bucks! What the ****?!
2007May 31
Explorer Eddie Bauer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 40,000 miles
I won't let it all out. Okay I will. My name is Cassandra and I have a freaking bone to pick. My 2004 Explorer is paid for. Looks great on inside and out, but when I drive it it's a butload of crap! It started out with hard reverse (scared any person that rode with me, they thought I may had hit someone) and a slip in gear. But this problem didn't really bother me, people got used to it as did I. Then 2 months ago, the O/D OFF light started flashing. I pressed the button on the end of the gear shift and it would not change the O/D OFF status. The car then continued to, (please hear me out), go a very quick and safe maximum of 30 miles per hour while the RPM's decided to shoot up to 3,500. The only way to reconcile this short term was to wait to get into the 1,000 RPM range and try again which that in most cases fell. Twas the night before Christmas, and this is no joke, that my care just decided to go a max of 30 MPH reguardless of the 45 MPH speed limit. Try to accelerate? Perfectly fine in 1st and 2nd, then you're screwed. The RPM's will run up to 6,000. The car doesn't freaking care. So my dilemma is a car that won't go past 35 MPH. So as a trial and error, as I neared 35, I shifted my AUTOMATIC trasi into 3rd gear and I was able to hit 45. It runs the engine harder but when you only have that car to drive, you make do. Not only did that suck, but I just found out 3 days ago that my car doesn't want to go in reverse. You can press the accelerator all you want and all you will get is the sound of a racing engine. So I decided to push my car with my foot out of the driver's side door ( great new innovation, right?!) From what I hear, the replacement of the solenoid is a temporary fix, very temporary, so dropping approx. $1000 is pointless. Also replacing the transmission with ANOTHER FAULTY one is oxymoron material. All I have on my side is AAA. I guess I'll just drive this piece of crap until it dies. Sad, because I really love my car. Never wanted to get rid of it, but the problem is inevitable. So I just hope I don't have a transmission on strike in rush hour traffic, or on the interstate, or when my sister goes into labor, or when a hurricane is coming our way. Freaking ford, I'm sorry to say that I cannot support the American economy because they are freaking LAME when it comes to fixing a problem. I would love to keep my car. PLEASE FIX THE PROBLEM!
2009Jan 14
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 80,000 miles
Same problem as everyone else. Shift hard, rear end leaks owe more than the piece of sh*t is worth. FORD F'd Over Rebuilt Dodge. I do not understand why the three automakers need money when they use cheap ass parts and charge like it is a BMW. Like Larry the Cable guy said " Sometimes you got to total the truck and collect the insurance money to pay the note"
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A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Oct 26
Explorer 4.0L
I purchased the 7yr/80k warranty when I bought this vehicle new, at 80,700 miles the transmission started slipping. Started by replacing the solenoid, fluid and filter, still had the issue. Ended up replacing the bands, all seems well now (knock on wood). Cost of $1500.
robs24
Beaver, PA, USA
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