How do I know if my Ford transmission is bad?
If you own a Ford vehicle, it's important to be able to recognize the signs of a failing transmission. A bad transmission can lead to costly repairs, so it's crucial to address the issue as soon as possible. In this article, we'll guide you through the key indicators that your Ford transmission may be in trouble.
Common Signs of a Bad Ford Transmission
Here are some of the most common symptoms that your Ford transmission may be failing:
- Slipping Gears: If your transmission is slipping in and out of gear, it's a clear sign that something is wrong. This can cause the engine to rev up without the vehicle accelerating as it should.
- Delayed Engagement: When you put your Ford into gear, there should be a smooth, immediate response. If there's a noticeable delay before the transmission engages, it could indicate a problem.
- Grinding or Shaking: If you feel a grinding sensation or shaking when shifting gears, it's a sign of transmission trouble. This could be caused by worn-out gears or other internal components.
- Leaking Fluid: Transmission fluid leaks are a serious issue that should be addressed right away. Look for any puddles or drips under your vehicle, as well as low fluid levels.
- Burning Smell: If you notice a burning odor coming from your Ford, it could mean that the transmission fluid is overheating, which can lead to further damage.
- Difficulty Shifting Gears: If you find it increasingly difficult to shift gears, either manually or automatically, it's a clear sign that your transmission is failing.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to have your Ford's transmission inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Ignoring the problem can lead to more extensive and costly repairs down the line.
Preventive Maintenance for Ford Transmissions
To help extend the life of your Ford transmission, it's important to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule. This typically includes regular fluid changes and inspections. By staying on top of preventive maintenance, you can help catch any potential issues before they become major problems.
Remember, a well-maintained Ford transmission can provide years of reliable service, but ignoring the warning signs can lead to costly repairs or even a complete transmission failure. Stay vigilant, and don't hesitate to have your vehicle checked by a professional if you notice any of the symptoms we've outlined.
What year is the bad transmission in the Ford?
Vehicles impacted are the Ford Fiesta (model years 2011-2016) and the Ford Focus (model years 2012-2016) equipped with a PowerShift transmission.
How do you test for a bad transmission?
Signs of a Bad Transmission
- Check Engine Light.
- Trouble Switching Gears.
- Burning Smell.
- Slipping Gears.
- Clunking, Grinding, or Humming Noises.
- No Response or Slow Response.
- Fluids are Leaking.
What could be mistaken for a bad transmission?
Common Automotive Misdiagnoses – 10 Engine Problems That Get Misdiagnosed As Transmission Failures
- Oil leaks.
- Faulty spark plugs.
- Engine misfire.
- Fuel delivery problems.
- Clogged catalytic converter.
- Faulty speed sensor.
- Broken temperature sensor.
- Malfunctioning interlock switch.
How do you check a Ford transmission?
- Insert dipstick fully and pull out to check fluid level.
- Transmission fluid expands when warmed up (driving for 20-30 minutes) Transmission level should be between the "HOT" marks.
- If the vehicle is cold the level will be between the "COOL" marks.
What does a car do before the transmission goes out?
A manual transmission will make very abrupt grinding noises when you change gears if it's faulty. An automatic transmission, on the other hand, will make a whining, humming, or buzzing sound. If you hear any of these noises, it is best to have your vehicle's transmission inspected as soon as possible.
How does a car act when the transmission is going out?
- Symptoms of a failing transmission:
- Slipping
- Delayed or harsh shifting
- Refusal to shift at all
- Refusal to shift when hot
- Refusal to shift when cold
- Vibration (damaged torque convertor clutch)
- Whining sound from pump
What is the life expectancy of a Ford transmission?
150,000 to 200,000 miles
Transmission Wear-and-Tear: How long does a Ford F-150 transmission last? Typically, F-150 transmissions can last anywhere from 150,000 to 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. Keep in mind that your transmission will experience wear and tear at the same rate as your engine.
What are symptoms of low transmission fluid?
If your gears are slipping, it's a clear sign your car's running low on transmission fluid. When experiencing sudden up and down shifts, high RPMs right before shifting, or erratic shifting, seek assistance from your local service center to prevent your transmission from overheating or becoming damaged.
How much does a Ford transmission cost?
Generally speaking, the cost to replace a transmission in a Ford vehicle can range from a couple thousand dollars to northward of $8,000.
Is there a recall on Ford transmissions?
On June 14, 2024, Ford issued a significant recall for certain F-150 pickup trucks due to a serious transmission issue that causes sudden gear shifting. The defect, affecting nearly 700,000 vehicles, can lead to dangerous driving conditions and potentially result in serious accidents.
