Yikes... 4 spd auto problems... - Ford Forums - Mustang Forum, Ford Trucks, Ford Focus and Ford Cars

Brent79 · 11-27-2002, 06:07

Hey guyz, my old 4spd is developing a problem it seems... ITs only happened twice now and the first time i ignored it but it happened again tonight. I was driving along happily doing about 80kph when all of a sudden my auto downshifted to 3rd...
I thought i was hit the T-bar or something but it was still in the D position... so i flicked it down too 2nd and then back up too drive but she wouldnt kick backinto 4th! So i slowed at the next set of lights and the damn thing wouldnt go into 1st! It was just running 2nd and 3rd! So i stopped at the fuel station and turned off the ignition.... refulled and restarted.... it began operation normally again! Anyone know what could have caused this???
My box has always performed crappy (it needs a S5 replacement)... like it will upshift when u take yer foot off the gas after accelerating and then would nearly stall itself.. but it never not shifted into a gear.. its got me worried now coz i dont have the cash to get the box sorted out atm. Anyone have any idea's??

Brent

NZ · 11-27-2002, 13:13

It sounds like some sort of fail safe mode. Perhaps chech the level of trans fluid, check its not burnt etc. I couldnt imagine it would overheat being driven normally. Perhaps a sensor id playing up?

Just a few ideas.

LTDHO · 11-27-2002, 19:00

I had the exact same thing happen to mine. Not sure, but I think is was because the fluid level was really low.

Now would be a good time to dump the pan, replace the filter, clain the magnets and add fresh fluid.

What colour is the fluid?
It should be red and clear..

ELGhiaV8 · 11-27-2002, 20:30

If the computer detects that there are any problems with the tranny then it will engage it into 3rd gear (limp home mode), believe me I have been there. My old EB did this when the tranny died !

Brent79 · 11-28-2002, 15:12

Checked fluid level and thats fine... was changed not more than 3 months ago.. I thought when in limp-home-mode, the box locked into 2nd? It was running 2nd and 3rd gears. Anyway, i will run the computer test and check for codes... I cant tell if its overheating coz when i changed the dash, the new dash didnt have the power mode light so i dunno if it was flashing or not.
Thanx guys

Brent

DaLeroy · 11-28-2002, 21:13

That is the exact same thing my mates box has done twice. Fluid level is ok. Anyone got any other ideas on fixing it? This 'limp home mode' is it expensive to fix?

*EDIT* Can anyone tell me how to do the computer test?