Hi everyone,
Signed up for this forum as I was not able to find my exact problem on Google. Calling up mechanics didn't help as they told me to just bring the car in. Just "bringing the car in" requires a pricey tow and my car will then be stuck there.
Here's the story:
I bought a 2001 Ford Escape (V6, automatic) 2 months ago. Used w/ about 58K miles. It now has about 60K. Ran just fine - didn't notice any problems other than a slight squeal from the steering when turning, and an occasional quiet "ticking" noise coming from the steering wheel as well (when turning).
One day, when trying to leave the house, I start up the car and shift to reverse. Thought it was strange as I did not hear the car change gears...I gas it and didn't move. Tried to switch to other gears, but it won't shift. I can pretty much only shift between park and reverse, and it's obviously not engaging into reverse. No indicator lights are on on the control panel. It's not making any funny noises. Pretty much an OK functioning car other than only being able to switch between park and reverse and not engaging into gear. This came from nowhere - has been driving fine the past 2 months. Tranny fluid is OK and no leaks were noticed.
I realize the Escape is/was prone to problems...I'm hoping my situation is only a broken cable or something small. I am NOT looking forward to a tranny rebuild Ideas on what might be wrong? Is there anything I can inspect myself on the car? Thanks in advance!
Signed up for this forum as I was not able to find my exact problem on Google. Calling up mechanics didn't help as they told me to just bring the car in. Just "bringing the car in" requires a pricey tow and my car will then be stuck there.
Here's the story:
I bought a 2001 Ford Escape (V6, automatic) 2 months ago. Used w/ about 58K miles. It now has about 60K. Ran just fine - didn't notice any problems other than a slight squeal from the steering when turning, and an occasional quiet "ticking" noise coming from the steering wheel as well (when turning).
One day, when trying to leave the house, I start up the car and shift to reverse. Thought it was strange as I did not hear the car change gears...I gas it and didn't move. Tried to switch to other gears, but it won't shift. I can pretty much only shift between park and reverse, and it's obviously not engaging into reverse. No indicator lights are on on the control panel. It's not making any funny noises. Pretty much an OK functioning car other than only being able to switch between park and reverse and not engaging into gear. This came from nowhere - has been driving fine the past 2 months. Tranny fluid is OK and no leaks were noticed.
I realize the Escape is/was prone to problems...I'm hoping my situation is only a broken cable or something small. I am NOT looking forward to a tranny rebuild Ideas on what might be wrong? Is there anything I can inspect myself on the car? Thanks in advance!